2023 Ford F150 Lightning Review

In keeping with its ability to offer numerous gas-powered options, Ford electric truck shoppers have the choice between two battery packs: Standard Range and Extended Range. Both create more power than the majority of gas-powered light duty trucks on the market.

The standard battery has 426 horsepower with 775 lb-ft of torque, while the Extended Range has an unexpected 563 horsepower with the same 775 lb-ft of torque. Each Ford electric truck comes equipped with four wheel drive. That’s more horsepower for both batteries this model year.

For 2023, the standard Lightning has an electric range of 240 miles, which is 10 more miles than the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning. For the Extended Range, this is bumped up nearly 80 miles for an efficient 320 miles of range.

In terms of MPGe, the more potent battery has the best fuel efficiency: 78 mpg-e in the city and 63 mpg-e on the highway. The Standard Range takes second place, but it is still quite smart with 76 mpg-e in the city and 61 mpg-e while cruising down the highway.

This is welcome fuel economy for full size trucks notorious for a poor driving range. To put things into perspective, the 2023 gas powered F-150 is considered one of the best on the market, and it has a driving range of 280 miles. Its fuel economy is 20 mpg on city streets and 26 mpg on highways.

Due to the excellent power of its two batteries, the Lightning has either a 7,700-pound or 10,000-pound towing capacity. This surely will help drivers work smarter, harder and more economically.

One of the upgrades for the 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning from the previous model year is the Pro Trailer Hitch Assist. This comes as standard when the F-150 Lightning Pro is purchased with a Tow Technology Package, but is available on higher trims with no package needed. This feature somewhat automates the steering, throttle, and braking of your vehicle when hitching trailers.

Additionally, the standard Lightning has a payload capacity of 2,235 pounds while the Extended Range has a smaller payload capacity of 1,952 pounds. This shows that while the Extended Range battery has improved driving range, the standard package has its own benefits too.

A great perk of an electric pickup is its front storage space, affectionately known as a Mega Power “Frunk”. Measuring 14.1 cubic feet, this cargo space can be utilized for luggage for a family trip. There are four Pro Power Onboard 120V outlets that may come in handy for drivers.

In fact, this electric pickup truck offers the benefits of the Pro Power Onboard with 11 outlets and 9.6 kW of auxiliary power. There is an optional package for an eight amp Ford Charge Station Pro with the ability to power a standard home for up to 3 days with a fully charged battery.

While browsing through the Lightning’s features, it’s clear that safety went into the making of this EV pickup. Standard features include, but are not limited to, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, and a blind spot with cross-traffic alert. Drivers will be pleased to find a crisp rear view camera, as well as a lane-keeping system for long road trips, and LED headlights.

Putting aside its electric motors, the 2023 F-150 Lightning and its gas-powered counterpart share many features. Always spacious, the Crew Cab easily seats a family of five. The large 15.5 inch screen offers up specialized Lightning animations. It works well with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Drivers have noted how useful it is to have a vertical touchscreen.

To control the temperature, the Lightning’s dashboard has digital buttons. These buttons work well due to the quick computer processor and smooth graphics. Another favorite feature is that the front seats can recline to 180 degrees, letting you rest while the truck charges.

Not as boxy as the gas-powered F-150, those who follow the electric vehicle market appreciate the slenderized design. It hosts a closed-off grille and a rounded face, in result, creating a more aerodynamic vehicle. A large and continuous LED headlight feature that wraps around the face of the truck.

Among its available exterior options, there are rear bed steps and exterior zone lighting.

Shoppers have many exterior colors to choose from, including Avalanche Gray, Azure Gray Tri-Coat, and Oxford White. Metallics come in handsome Antimatter Blue, Agate Black, Iconic Silver, Stone Gray, and feisty Rapid Red.

Built for business, Lightning Pro models have the Standard Range battery. XLT, Lariat, and Platinum trims can option the Extended Range battery.

Ford did not sacrifice interior comforts when creating this cutting-edge Ev. This electric pickup truck has the same standards as the rest of the F-150 lineup, plus some. The Lightning Pro has a plethora of features, including standard heated front seats.

Drivers who are using this EV pickup as a daily commuter do not need to upgrade trim levels to enjoy the latest dash tech, safety tech, and more.

Next, the 2023 Lightning XLT includes all the features of the Pro, plus LED mirror mounted spotlights, body color bumpers, an eight-way power driver seat, and the popular 360-degree camera. This vehicle offers the SecuriCode keyless entry keypad, which is well liked among busy drivers.

Going up the trim ladder, Lightning Lariats have beautiful leather trimmed front seats, the Pro Power Onboard generator, and a wireless charging pad. LED security approach lamps make evenings safer. Ventilated seating is definitely a Phoenix AZ favorite.

Ford’s Lightning Platinum is the highest trim available and is where electric efficiency and luxury meet. This is recognized as the trim that does it all. This EV pickup truly stands out with its handsome “end cut oak” interior accents and the soft touch of top leathers. Front seats are ventilated and have a massage feature. Drivers enjoy power-adjustable pedals, and the back row gains power-heat capability.

Despite recent increase in vehicle pricing, the Ford F-150 Lightning is still the cheapest electric truck on the market today. It brings power and a modernized design with a more affordable price tag.

There are also tax incentives for going electric. Those who purchase a new electric vehicle may qualify for up to $7,500 in federal tax credit. For more information, give us a call or set an appointment today.

Additionally, according to 2022 fuel prices, it is less expensive to charge your electric vehicle than it is to fuel a gas or diesel powered pickup truck. The car market is going electric, and now could be the time to buy.

Reviewers, when comparing the Lightning to the Rivian R1T or any other electric truck, seem to like the power and features of the 2023 F-150 Lightning. The Lightning is much more similar to that of a traditional pickup truck, but has the benefits of increased storage and utility power of an electric vehicle. By comparison, the contemporary exterior of the Rivian is a turn-off for those just entering the EV market.

Additionally, the technology of the Lightning performed better than the Rivian. In general, the F-150 Lightning worked better and had the technology perform as intended. The Lightning’s front trunk worked better and had more utility incentives, according to Forbes.

The 400-pound carrying capacity of the frunk is greater than that of the Rivian. CNET, for instance, notes that you could haul five bags of concrete with that much capacity. Likewise, the amount of towing power you get for money is a much better bargain with the Lightning.

We’ve compiled this convenient table to use if you are comparing electric trucks today.

For those interested in going electric or simply looking into the latest pickup trucks, stop by our Rodeo Ford dealership. Our staff can offer competitive financing rates and an in-person review of this handsome electric vehicle.

You can utilize our online chat for more information or give us a call to get the scoop on Lightning orders, pricing, and available F-150s.