Why Ford’s Base Trims Are Suddenly Outselling Premium Models in America

As new-car prices continue to climb, more Americans are shifting toward Ford’s base trims. Drivers are realizing they can still get strong performance, safety tech, and reliability without paying premium prices. This trend shows that buyers are prioritizing value over luxury and Ford’s entry-level trims are leading the way.

Ford Maverick XL

Oh man, the Maverick. This little truck’s been lowkey killing it since day one. The base XL trim’s around $25k, which sounds like a typo these days. You don’t get fancy stuff like a sunroof or leather, but you do get a hybrid engine that can pull in like 37 mpg combined, which is ridiculous for a pickup. It’s simple, it’s efficient, and it’s actually fun to drive in that workhorse kinda way. People love that it’s cheap but not cheap-feeling, you know?

Ford F-150 XL

Now the F-150 XL, that’s like… back to basics in the best way. You still get the 3.3-liter V6, it tows plenty, it’s rugged, and you can actually get one around $38k if you’re lucky. It’s the kind of truck that reminds you trucks were built to haul stuff, not host Super Bowl watch parties inside the cab. Yeah, no giant touchscreen or cooled seats, but the bones? Solid. And that’s what buyers want again just simple, tough, reliable.

Ford Escape Active

The Escape Active trim’s kinda cute nothing flashy, but decent. It starts around $29k and checks all the boxes: okay power, good space, solid mileage. Honestly, it’s what most people actually need, but we all get tempted by the Titanium trim and forget this exists. The new styling’s not bad either, sorta sleek but practical. It’s like that friend who brings homemade lunch every day quietly smart.

Ford Edge SE

The Edge SE is one of those SUVs that nobody talks about but somehow, it’s always there doing its thing. Around $38k-ish and it’s roomy, smooth, and looks clean. The infotainment system’s decent and safe features come standard. Some folks complain it feels “basic,” but I think that’s kinda the point. It’s comfortable, family-friendly, and doesn’t scream about it.

Ford Bronco Sport Base

The Bronco Sport in base trim is honestly a steal if you want adventure on a budget. Starts at $31k, which sounds high until you realize how much capability you still get. It’s boxy, cute, and off-road-ready even without the fancy Badlands stuff. The interior’s plasticky? Sure. But you can hose half of it down after a muddy trail. That’s part of the vibe.

Ford Explorer Base

Now this one’s interesting. The Explorer used to be one of those “soccer parent” buys, and now people are eyeing the base version again because the higher trims are insane, like $55k-plus. The XLS at about $38k actually gives you everything essential three rows, touchscreen, solid engine. You lose the bells and whistles, but the truth? It drives the same.

Ford Ranger XL

The Ranger XL is that no-nonsense midsize pickup that’s, like, perfectly fine. Around $33k, all business, no fluff. Cloth seats, basic radio, old-school vibes. People are buying it because it’s a truck, not a lounge. Honestly, if you just want something to haul the weekend gear or hit the job site, it’s a smart play. Plus, Ford’s updating it soon, so you know it’ll get better.

Ford Transit Connect

Okay, hear me out. The Transit Connect base trim is kinda adorable. Starts near $35k and it’s like your friendly neighborhood delivery van, but super practical. Families, small businesses, campers you name it. It sips fuel, it’s easy to park, and it feels like driving a tall car, not a “van van.” Weirdly underrated.

Ford Mustang EcoBoost

The base Mustang’s still a head-turner, even without the V8 rumble. Around $32k and you still get that sleek look and solid turbo engine. Sure, it’s not the GT, but man, it’s quick enough for daily fun. And the sound? Honestly, you can mod it a bit and boom—instant attitude. Plus, the idea of owning a Mustang for the price of a small SUV just… feels right again.

Ford Expedition XL STX

And this one’s kinda hilarious because the Expedition’s usually a wallet-buster. But the base XL STX around $55k (which I know isn’t cheap, but for an Expedition, that’s entry-level money) is getting surprising love. It’s huge, comfy, powerful, and doesn’t bother with luxury nonsense. Just you, a big V6, and a bunch of space. Like the road-trip king for people who don’t need chrome everywhere.