Which 2020 Ford F-150 to buy — Variant Comparison Guide

The Ford F-150 pickup truck initially made its debut in the Philippine market back in the early 90s. While its initial stay in the market was short-lived, Ford Philippines decided to bring it back in 2020 with two available variants.

As there are two available models in the country, there isn’t much separating the two aside from a few minor differences and the available drivetrains. Both variants carry with them the same 3.5-liter twin-turbo Ecoboost V6 gasoline engine along with the same infotainment system, driver-assist technology, and safety features. With that said we created a quick guide to help you decide which variant of the Ford F-150 could best suit your needs. 

The entry-level model to the large and in charge of Ford Philippines’ full-size pickup range is the Ford F-150 4x2 Lariat. Don’t let the entry-level designation fool you as the variant comes well-equipped with the features and luxuries one would expect from such a large vehicle. As previously mentioned it comes with the powerful 3.5-liter twin-turbo Ecoboost V6 gasoline engine and 10-speed automatic transmission that is standard across the variant lineup. However, it is important to note that the Lariat is only available with a 4x2 layout.

On the outside, the Lariat retains a similar look to its Platinum 4x4 variant counterpart. It carries with it the same Quad-beam LED headlights and overall design. However, where the two differ at least on the exterior is when it comes to the grille and wheels. Ford Philippines has given the Lariat a sportier look compared to its higher variant brother and has given it a set of 20-inch 6-spoke dark ally painted aluminum alloy wheels to help set it apart. It is important to note, that Ford has also given it all-season tires compared to the all-terrains that are available with the Platinum model. Where the two differ again is when it comes to the tailgate at the rear, the Lariat does not come with a tailgate lift assist, nor does it come with front skid plates. It is a 4x2 variant after all and that’s to be expected for its intended purpose of being an on-road pickup truck.

When it comes to the interior, both the Lariat and Platinum models come with the same leather interior, however, the Lariat comes with its own unique leather seat material that is different from its higher trim-level. As the baseline model for the F-150 lineup, it comes with dual-zone automatic temperature control, intelligent access push-button start, power tilt and telescopic steering with memory function, heated steering wheel, and power-adjustable pedals for those who are vertically challenged along with Ice Blue ambient lighting.

In terms of features, the F-150 4x2 Lariat comes with all the standard kit for the model lineup. It features an 8-inch infotainment system that features Ford’s SYNC3 technology along with AppLink, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. It also comes Navigation ready and with a 10-speaker sound system by Bang and Olufsen with a subwoofer. 

For a vehicle of its size, the F-150 Lariat also comes well equipped when it comes to safety features. It is equipped with the Blue Oval’s Co-pilot technology which grants the full-size pickup truck access to a 360-degree camera, active park assist, curve control, hill start assist, a reverse sensing system, and a trailer-sway control system as standard. It also comes with automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, dynamic brake support, and adaptive cruise control just to name a few. This is on top of roll stability control, a plethora of airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system, ABS with EBD, a perimeter alarm, and rear safety belts. 

The top of the line variant in the full-size pickup truck range of the Blue Oval badge in the Philippines is the Ford F-150 4x4 Platinum Supercrew AT. Much like its lower variant, the Lariat carries with it the same engine, transmission, as well as features with the only difference being that the top of the line model comes with four-wheel drive and a different rear axle.

Exterior-wise the Platinum looks exactly the same as its lower variant brother with the exception of 20-inch polished aluminum alloy wheels, all-terrain tires, and a different grille. It also comes with more ground clearance at 239mm compared to the Lariat’s 216mm to further emphasize its off-road capabilities. On top of this, it also comes with a tailgate lift assist and front skid plates. An electronic shift on the fly transfer case is also present in the Platinum variant to complement its 4x4 drivetrain. 

Entering the cabin of the Platinum model is a similar experience to that of the lower variant, it comes with the same dashboard design and interior features such as the 8-inch infotainment system. However, where they differ is when it comes to the seating material, as the Platinum comes with unique multi contoured leather instead of the standard leather material found in the Lariat. Aside from this, it carries over much of the features from the lower variant such as the dual-zone automatic temperature control as well as the power features. 

Safety features are also the same when it comes to the Platinum variant. The only difference between it and the lower Lariat model is that there is improved protection for the rear passengers as the seat belts inflate in the event of a crash. 

With only minor differences between the two Ford F-150 models in the Philippines, it all boils down to intended use. Both variants of the pickup truck are well equipped especially for their price and come with all the driver aids needed to maneuver such a large vehicle.

The F-150 Lariat 4x2 presents itself as the variant of choice for those who want a luxurious full-size pickup truck that comes big in power and in towing capabilities. It already comes with a 360-degree camera as well as trailer-sway control that will help you with your towing needs. While it does lack off-road capabilities due to it only being 4x2 it does well for city and highway use. As the entry-level model, it already comes with most of the features that are present in the Platinum model.

As for the Platinum 4x4 model, it is the icing on the F-150 cake. It comes with a few more features notably a four-wheel-drive system, a locking differential, more ground clearance, and a more premium interior. It is ideal for those who want a more versatile version of the Lariat that comes with off-road capabilities as well. Similar to its lower variant it is equally adept at towing thanks to the standard technology between the two. It also comes with a tailgate lift assist for added convenience and front skid plates for added protection when traveling off the beaten path. All in all the Platinum 4x4 presents itself as the full-size pickup of choice for those who want a rig that comes with all the premium features and can be taken off-road.