We’re upgrading from our 2022 Lightning Lariat to a 2024 model with the max tow package, but I have to choose between a Lariat and a Platinum, both around the same price. The Lariat is available locally in the color I want, while the Platinum would need to be shipped. From what I know, the Platinum has larger wheels (which could lower range), a better sound system, and fancier seats (though I’m worried about the white seats getting stained). Is there any reason I should go for the Platinum over the Lariat?
I’d just keep the 2022 model. You already have the main features.
Weston said:
I’d just keep the 2022 model. You already have the main features.
Keeping the '22 would be ideal, but we need the max tow package since we’re often towing over 7500 lbs. The 2024 Lariat I’m looking at has the bed scales. What other features would I be missing out on with the 2024 Lariat?
@Tatum
The Pro Power 7.2 is optional, and BlueCruise is only available as a 90-day trial. Active park assist isn’t available, no power running boards, and no fold-flat under-seat storage on the Lariat.
@Weston
Thanks! The one I’m considering has the Pro Power 9.6, and the other missing features don’t really bother me.
@Tatum
Just a heads-up, the 2024 models don’t support 80-amp level 2 charging.
@Tatum
The 2024 Platinum only tows up to 8500 lbs. Do you think that’s worth the upgrade from your current Lariat, which does 7700 lbs?
Sage said:
@Tatum
The 2024 Platinum only tows up to 8500 lbs. Do you think that’s worth the upgrade from your current Lariat, which does 7700 lbs?
I actually need the 10,000 lb tow rating, which is why I’m going for the Lariat with max tow. Surprised the Platinum maxes out at 8500 lbs!
@Tatum
That’s due to the bigger wheels on the Platinum, which reduce towing power, and the added weight of the Platinum model itself.
How are you getting both for the same price? The Platinum doesn’t qualify for the EV tax credit.
Tobin said:
How are you getting both for the same price? The Platinum doesn’t qualify for the EV tax credit.
I found a dealer on the East Coast that’s offering an $11k discount on Platinums to move inventory. Sadly, neither model qualifies for the tax credit.
@Tatum
Was this in New York? I think I saw that deal.
I went with a Lariat without BlueCruise or a sunroof back in 2022. Looking back, I kind of wish I’d gone for the Platinum for the extra features. At the time, I just wanted a Lightning without a markup, so I took what I could find.
If you have both options available now, go for the higher trim! You can always downsize the rims to improve range, and there are plenty of options since it shares the bolt pattern with other F-150s and Lightnings.
@Adair
Normally, I’d agree, but it seems like the extra Platinum features aren’t that impressive on the 2024. They even removed the massage seats! I’d probably downsize the rims anyway for better range, and with young kids, I’d rather not deal with white seats. I’m good with the Lariat’s sound system and don’t really need power running boards.
@Tatum
I’ve never really used the massage seats—they’re just vibrations, not much of a massage. As for the running boards, I actually prefer the look of the standard ones and find them easier with kids.
Go with the Lariat if towing is your main concern. The Lariat with the Max Tow package will tow up to 10,000 lbs, while the Platinum is limited to 8500 lbs. That’s only 800 lbs more than your current truck, so it might not be worth it.
According to Ford’s 2024 Lightning specs:
- Standard-Range (Pro and XLT): 5,000 lbs, or 7,700 lbs with Max Trailer Tow package
- Extended-Range (Flash and Lariat): 7,700 lbs or 10,000 lbs with Max Trailer Tow package
- Extended-Range (Platinum): 8,500 lbs with included Max Trailer Tow package
@Sage
Thanks for the info. Makes the decision a lot easier!
In my opinion, the only big difference you’ll notice is the sound system.
Jess said:
In my opinion, the only big difference you’ll notice is the sound system.
The power side step is another reason I’d go for the Platinum.