The 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat interior represents a significant evolution in the full-size pickup segment, blending rugged capability with a surprisingly refined and comfortable cabin. This specific trim level targets buyers who want more than just a work truck, seeking premium materials, advanced technology, and upscale appointments without venturing into the higher-priced King Ranch or Platinum territories. From the moment you step inside, the attention to detail and focus on driver-centric design become immediately apparent.
Design and Materials: A Step Above the Base
Visual first impressions of the 2018 F-150 Lariat are defined by its sophisticated color palette and premium surface finishes. The interior typically features a black or two-tone leather-and-suede seating surface, a stark contrast to the basic vinyl found on lower trims. Dark gray or black leather-wrapped steering wheels, shift knobs, and door handles create a cohesive and aggressive aesthetic. Soft-touch plastics replace the hard, cheap materials common in older models, providing a tactile experience that feels modern and well-built, even in the less-visible areas of the center console and lower dashboard panels.
Seating Comfort and Configuration
Seating comfort is a major highlight of the Lariat, primarily driven by the available heated front bucket seats. These seats, often bolstered for side support, provide exceptional comfort during long drives, keeping occupants warm in cold climates without needing to blast the defroster. The driver’s seat offers extensive power adjustment, including lumbar support, ensuring a perfect ergonomic position for every journey. For the second row, available captain’s chairs provide easier access to the third row and a more car-like experience, though the standard bench seat offers greater passenger capacity and comfort for children or long-haul trips.
Technology and Infotainment: Connected Capability
Staying connected on the road is a priority in the 2018 Lariat, thanks to its robust infotainment system. The centerpiece is a standard 4.2-inch touchscreen display, which, while not the largest in its class, is highly functional and integrated seamlessly into the dashboard. Ford’s SYNC 3 system provides an intuitive interface for climate control, audio settings, and vehicle settings. Smartphone integration is a key feature, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility allowing for seamless mirroring of navigation, music, and messaging apps directly to the screen.
Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety and driver-assistance technologies are woven into the fabric of the Lariat trim, providing peace of mind that extends beyond basic warnings. This trim level typically includes a comprehensive suite of Ford Co-Pilot360 features, which may comprise blind-spot information system (BLIS) with cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping system, adaptive cruise control, and pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking. These systems work together to help mitigate accidents and reduce driver fatigue, making the Lariat a compelling choice for safety-conscious buyers who refuse to compromise on capability.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
While the focus here is the interior, the 2018 F-150 Lariat’s performance characteristics directly impact the driving experience. The introduction of aluminum body panels contributed to a lighter curb weight, which translates to improved fuel efficiency and handling. Paired with the available 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 or the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, the truck offers strong power and towing capacity while maintaining a civilized cabin environment. The steering feel is typically well-balanced, providing feedback without being overly heavy, and the suspension is tuned to absorb road imperfections effectively, contributing to the overall refined nature of the Lariat.
