The 2025 Ford F-150 Lightning I recently tested came dressed as the Lariat Series, second from the top of the lineup (just behind Platinum). It wore Tri-Coat metallic paint, had upgraded liner-tray floor mats, the Pro-Power Onboard package, BlueCruise, a Mobile Power Cord, and a spray-in bedliner. In other words, it was exactly how I would have spec’d one for myself.
But here’s the shocker—and it’s a great big butt (pun intended): the sticker read $102,740. Yes, over one hundred grand for a pickup. That’s becoming “normal” in today’s market, but it still stings. To make matters worse, that number pushes the Lightning into Canada’s new vehicle luxury tax zone.
The Luxury Tax Reality Check
The federal luxury tax kicks in when a new vehicle, EVs included, tops $100,000. Buyers pay the lesser of:
- 10% of the total purchase price, or
- 20% of the amount above $100,000.
For my tester, that meant 20% of $2,740, or $548, rather than 10% of $102,740 (a painful $10,724). A big financial win, but still a “kick in the front pocketbook.”
Here’s where things get better. CarCostCanada’s Market Value Report (MVR) would show you that in addition to the dealer cost, there’s a $7,000 delivery allowance, a $5,000 delivery credit, and Ford’s summertime Employee Pricing Event can soften the blow. In other words, an informed buyer knows there are deals to be had—making now an excellent time to scoop up a Lightning.
Never forget to become a CarCostCanada member before you buy any new vehicle – otherwise, you just might overpay and be shut out of incentives and allowances and sale events…..and even dealer discounts.
Five Flavours of Lightning
Ford has kept the lineup simple: every Lightning is 4WD, every one is a SuperCrew (four doors), and every one gets the 5.5-foot box. From there, you pick your flavour: PRO, XLT, FLASH, LARIAT, or PLATINUM.
The value standout? The PRO. Starting at $59,995, even with options like a tow package, spray-in bedliner, and mobile power cord, it sneaks under $70K. Factor in the $5,000 delivery credit and Employee Pricing, and suddenly you’ve got a full-size EV pickup at a compelling price.
Charging, Range, and the Towing Elephant
Charging is straightforward if you’ve got home access. Ford even throws in $2,000 toward a home charging unit. Public charging, though, can be less than convenient—I used a FLO station during testing, and it took longer than expected. And no, Tesla Superchargers aren’t yet on the menu (though Ford promises that’s coming).
As for range, Ford offers two batteries:
- Standard Range (386 km): standard on PRO, XLT, FLASH.
- Extended Range (515 km): standard on Lariat and Platinum, optional on XLT/FLASH.
Here’s the reality check: towing slashes range significantly.
- 5,000 lbs: expect 40–50% loss.
- 7,500 lbs: 55–60% loss.
- 10,000 lbs: 65–70% loss.
That’s sobering math. Hauling a camper for a summer holiday or even towing a boat a couple of hours up north could push the limits of your patience—and the battery.
Tech That Wows
On the flip side, Lightning tech is outstanding. Ford’s BlueCruise delivers true hands-free highway driving on pre-mapped routes—it’s smooth, confidence-inspiring, and a glimpse of the future. The infotainment system is equally impressive, with a massive touchscreen, slick graphics, and seamless integration of Google apps and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
Torque for Days
What really seals the deal is how the Lightning drives. With instant EV torque, the Lightning launches like a muscle car wearing a tool belt. Whether merging onto the highway or pulling away from a stoplight, it’s shockingly quick for a full-size truck. Better still, the ride is smooth, quiet, and refined—more luxury SUV than work truck.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Ford F-150 Lightning is both shocking and satisfying. The price, especially when dressed up as a Lariat or Platinum, may cause some buyers to swallow hard (and maybe mutter a few choice words about luxury tax). But with dealer incentives and Employee Pricing, the sting is reduced.
If your lifestyle doesn’t involve frequent towing, the Lightning makes a compelling case. It’s packed with tech, has a range that works for most daily drivers, and delivers a driving experience that will exceed expectations. For anyone considering a full-size EV pickup, the Lightning is—quite literally—electrifying.
James Matthews is the President, General Manager and Co-Founder of LeaseBusters. James launched LeaseBusters in 1990 and is considered one of Canada’s leading experts on new vehicle leases, lease-take-overs and vehicle lease (re)marketing. James can be reached directly at jmatthews at leasebusters.com