The updated 2026 Ford F-150 pick-up truck is finally set to arrive in Australian showrooms early next year, marking more than two years since its global debut in the United States. The launch has experienced multiple delays, originally planned for late 2024 and then early 2025. However, Ford Australia has now confirmed that the facelifted model will make its local debut with an expanded range, introducing the new top-of-the-line Platinum trim to complement the existing XLT and Lariat grades.
Starting at $114,950 before on-road costs, the entry-level F-150 XLT is now priced $8000 higher for the short-wheelbase (SWB) version and $7005 higher for the long-wheelbase (LWB) model compared to before. Notably, both versions will now cost the same, removing the previous $1000 price difference. The facelift brings several key upgrades, including a larger 12-inch infotainment touchscreen and LED reflector headlights, giving the cabin a more high-tech feel.
The XLT also benefits from a 12-inch fully digital instrument cluster, newly designed 20-inch alloy wheels, USB-C charging ports, LED fog lamps, and LED tail-lights. Ford has also enhanced practicality with load box area lighting and a 12-volt outlet in the tray. These features aim to make the F-150 XLT a more comfortable and convenient option for both work and leisure.
Moving up the range, the F-150 Lariat now carries a $143,950 price tag, an increase of $4000 for the SWB and $3005 for the LWB models. The Lariat introduces new chrome alloy wheel designs and an upgraded 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system for a premium in-cabin experience. The short-wheelbase Lariat also includes extended-length chrome side steps, adding both style and accessibility.
At the top of the lineup sits the new F-150 Platinum, priced at $163,950, making it the most expensive American pick-up currently available in Australia. It surpasses key rivals such as the Ram 1500 Limited ($159,950) and the Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 ($144,900). For the extra $20,000 over the Lariat, buyers receive a host of luxury and performance-oriented upgrades, including continuously controlled damping suspension, a multi-folding hard tonneau cover, a 360-degree camera with rear cargo view, and gloss black exterior trim.
Inside, the Platinum grade exudes luxury with black onyx leather upholstery, automatic power-deploying side steps, and multi-adjustable front seats featuring six-way lumbar support, memory functions, full reclining capability, and massage settings. Metallic paint, which costs $750 on lower trims, is included as standard on the Platinum. Both Lariat and Platinum variants gain Ford’s new ‘Pro Access’ split tailgate, allowing a 100-degree swing door that opens sideways with one hand or via the key fob.
Ford explains that the tailgate’s check stops prevent it from colliding with a trailer hitch, while the sideways opening design makes loading easier by reducing the reach distance by up to 48 centimetres. Additionally, Ford has adjusted the Gross Combined Mass (GCM) and Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) across the lineup, resulting in higher maximum payload capacities.
In terms of market presence, the Ram 1500 remains the best-selling US pick-up in Australia so far this year with 2112 units sold, followed by the Chevrolet Silverado (1636), Toyota Tundra (618), and Ford F-150 (549). Local F-150s continue to be re-manufactured at RMA Automotive’s facility in Melbourne’s northern suburbs — a process distinct from the Walkinshaw Automotive Group, which handles conversions for Ram, Chevrolet, and Toyota models.
With the facelifted 2026 F-150’s launch now imminent, Ford Australia aims to strengthen its foothold in the growing full-size pick-up segment, offering buyers a blend of American muscle, advanced technology, and premium comfort.