2023 Ford Lightning Review

The Ford F150 – aka America’s favorite pickup truck – is the most versatile full-size pickup ever. It is highly capable and luxurious and can be used for work and play. Ford ups the ante by offering an all-electric version of this truck in the form of the F150 Lighting.

The following is a review of its latest model, the 2023 Ford Lightning:

Features

The Ford Lightning was launched last year to massive success – so much so that Ford had to stop taking orders. Now, it is once again available for sale, and you are offered 4 trim levels and 2 powertrains to choose from. There have been no changes to this year’s model.

Powertrain and Numbers

The 2023 Ford F150 Lightning offers you a pair of electric motors with a choice of battery packs. The first is the 98-kWh setup that results in a whopping 452 hp and 775 lb-ft. You can upgrade to the extended range 131 kWh pack that is good for a tremendous 580 horses.

All-wheel drive is the standard offering here, to properly distribute this heap of power to the wheels. As you’d expect, the acceleration is mind-blowing as the bigger battery gets you a 0-60 mph time of just 3.8 seconds. Hence it can put many supercars to shame on the drag strip.

Then we have the towing capacity, which isn’t really a strong point for most electric vehicles. However, Ford has put all this torque to good use, so the Ford Lightning 2023 can tow a decent number of 10000 lbs. and haul up to 2000 lbs. – the frunk carries up to 400 lbs. as well.

Then we have the range which is a major reason anyone would switch to this truck. The Ford Lightning with the extended battery pack can do up to a respectable 320 miles on a full charge. Meanwhile, the standard battery can get you up to 230 miles.

Interior and Technology

The Ford F150 Lightning 2023 features a spectacular cabin that’s very visually appealing and is built of high-quality materials. It doesn’t feel cheap even in the most basic trim levels. The cabin is spacious and can seat up to five people.

This is quite impressive that Ford has managed to retain the roominess even with the extra electrical components. Also, because this is an electric truck, you get a large extra cargo space in the form of a frunk. It can add to the truck’s hauling capabilities. Cubby storage is optimal.

The following are the trim levels on the 2023 Ford Lightning:

2023 Ford Lightning Pro
The entry-level Ford Lightning 2023 comes with many standard features. These include dual-zone climate control, push-button ignition, keyless entry, a 12-inch instrumentation screen, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, cruise control, heated front seats, and a 12-inch touchscreen.

The safety department is the highlight of this model. It includes automated emergency braking (w/pedestrian detection), reverse sensing, a rearview camera, rear cross-traffic alerts, and lane-departure warning (w/lane-keeping assist).

2023 Ford Lightning XLT
There are several add-ons here including an interior work surface and a black-leather-wrapped steering wheel, power-adjustable pedals, and an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. You also get voice-activated satellite navigation, forward sensing, and a 360-degree camera.

2023 Ford Lightning Lariat
The Lariat trim is always associated with luxury on any Ford, and this is the case here as well. You get upgrades such as ventilation, 10-way power adjustability and leather-wrapping on the front seats. You also get heating on the steering wheel and ambient mood lighting.

Also included are a larger 15.5-inch touchscreen, a premium sound system by B&O, wireless charging for your phone, and an intersection assist system for added safety.

2023 Ford Lightning Platinum
The Platinum model gets you the very best of the 2023 Ford Lightning. It adds “End cut Oak” wood trimmings, and multi-contour premium nirvana leather-seats. You also get heated seats in the back, HD Radio, various trailering assist systems, and even handsfree autonomous driving.

2023 Ford Lightning Lariat

2023 Ford Lightning Platinum

2023 Ford Lightning Pro

Exterior and Driving

The Ford Lightning 2023 looks almost like its handsome gasoline powered sibling. It features a 5.5-foot-long truck bed plus an onboard generator ranging from 2.4-9.6 kW of power generated based on your trim level.

The wheel sizes range from 18 inches on the Pro model to 22 inches on the Platinum. You get the signature LED lighting bar, heated and powered side mirrors with auto-dimming and memory features as you move up the trims. The same goes for the twin-panel moonroof.

The exterior color options on the 2023 Ford Lightning are the following, differing by trim:

The 2023 Ford Lightning can do it all from providing you with a thrilling driving experience to a comfortable and composed cruise. It also features upgraded suspension which minimizes body roll, along with a lower center of gravity – these characteristics enhance its handling.

The high-power output along with the four-wheel drive system also means that this truck will do well on the trail.

Reliability and Warranty

The data regarding the 2023 Ford Lightning’s predicted reliability isn’t available. However, if it is anything like the standard F150 models, it should do excellently. You can rely on the consumer reviews for more information.

Ford also gives you a limited warranty of 3 years/36k miles, a powertrain warranty of 5 years/60k miles, and an electric components warranty for 8 years/100k miles.

Verdict

The 2023 Ford F150 Lightning brings to you all the qualities that make the standard F150 great – power, towing, hauling, build quality, comfort, and reliability. On top of this, it also features mind-boggling acceleration, zero emissions, and an all-electric range.

To get the 2023 Ford F150 Lightning in Woods Cross, North Salt Lake UT, Centerville UT, and Bountiful UT, check out Performance Ford Truck Country here.