Well we are going to trade our '03 Fx4 Supercrew and '03 Mach1 for a '05 Supercrew.
But we can't decide what trim package to get.
We really like the dual power seats available in the Lariat but the looks and color options of the FX4.
Does the FX4 package really add anything extra on the suspension. When we bought our '03 it was taller than a regular 4x4 and had rancho shocks. What does the '05 have?

Also is the audiophile any good or should I just put in aftermarket?
Thanks for everyones input,
Clint

 

wow an 03 Mach 1 is going to be a collectors. i would keep that man.

 

Lariat all the way. The ETAC, gauge cluster, and message center are huge improvements over the other trim levels. If you've had aftermarket audio systems in the past, I HIGHLY recommend taking your favorite CD or mix to the dealer and listening to the audiophile. It's a big improvement over a standard setup, but falls short of a good aftermarket setup, especially at higher volume levels.

The FX4 suspension has 'off road' shocks that are rumored to be built by Rancho.. and some skid plates standard, optional on the Lariat. It's really not any taller, but I do think the Lariats have more of a front rake to them. You'll want a level kit anyway so I wouldn't worry about it.

 

Bah... with about a ka-jillion other 'stangs that looks just like it and about 50 other 'special editions' made, I doubt it'll be worth anything. Maybe in 100 years or so, but not in our lifetime.

 

Gotta go with the lariet. Love the chrome grill surround in the front. And the better rims. And the intrument panel with the information center. Too many extras to mention. But the Fx4 is a sharp looking truck as well. Both are good choices. Good luck. Show us some pictures when u get it.

 

I really wanted all the features of the Lariat, but did not like color choices, the chrome front, fake wood dash and did not want leather seats. So I ended up with a loaded FX4. I don't know why Ford does not give you the options for the Lariat in the FX4, I would have gladly paid more to have both worlds. Audio system is ok, but not as good as aftermarket. I'm getting old so I don't need the loudest system anymore, the factory does fine and I don't have to worry about some doped out addict breaking in my truck for a stereo. Wish they had satelite for music though.

zman

 

Hard choice between Lariat and the FX4, both spectacular vehicles... But just to disagree with dzervit and the crystal swilling caviar eating, self agradizing Lariat crowd (all in good fun fellas) who are likely to be all over this like white on rice, I'm saying FX4. IMHO it looks better interior (w/ black leather) and exterior, but you will not get the ETAC and message center that the Lariat has (minimal loss IMHO) but you also don't get the cheesy fake wood dash. Audiophile is available in the FX4.

time until dzervit flames me for being the XLT driving peasant that I am...
5
4
3
2
1...

 

ka-BOOM!

XLT peasant... FX4 is sub-par and why not go all the way? Unless you have your heart set on those poverty-inspiring colors like silver or dark grey Lariat is the only way to go. Leather rules, but then again you beer-swilling swines in the lesser trucks just don't get it...

 

Hey man, I have a Dark Grey Lariat, does that inspire poverty?

 

To us, the choice between the Lariat and FX4 was the importance of leather and the memory package. If you want leather, price and resell wise, the Lariat probably makes the most sense and if you are sharing the vehicle often, the memory package makes life considerably easier.

We went with the FX4 as my wife and I both found the cloth to be more comfortable and she will not be driving it much so the memory was not important and I really like the FX4 dash much better. Another odd ball thing I like on the FX4 is the 17" rims which allow a higher towing capacity (although only 500lbs) than the 18" tires standard on the Lariat.

For your decision, drive both and most likely the choice will be clear to you.

 

As much as I loved the Lariat and FX4 packages, we had to have the middle front row seat due to 2 of the 3 in the back being taken up by enormous car seats! XLT for us and I'm not displeased at all.

 

I've got an 02 Lariat FX4. Are you guys saying they don't offer both on the same truck anymore?

 

I got a middle row seat in my Lariat...

 

Yeah FX4 is now a trim level rather than a package so the days of XLT FX4s and Lariat FX4s are gone.

I think its funny that dzervit thinks that XLT drivers are beer swilling swine. If I could afford beer would I be driving a paltry XLT? It's sterno and rubbing alcohol all the way for me!

 

I'd spring for the Mark LT... but neither was an option at the time.