The Coastal Towing Lifestyle in Santa Monica and Marina del Rey
Santa Monica residents often balance a sophisticated urban career with an active, outdoor-oriented weekend lifestyle that centers on the Pacific Ocean. For many locals, owning a vessel moored at Marina del Rey is a primary recreation, requiring a vehicle capable of navigating city streets during the week and handling heavy marine trailers on the weekend. The demand for a dependable marine hauler is high here, as the salt air and steep boat ramps require a truck with both structural integrity and precise mechanical control. Our team understands that a truck in this region is more than just a work tool; it is a vital component of a lifestyle that values health, wellness, and environmental consciousness.
Navigating the transition from the office to the water requires a vehicle that handles the heavy traffic near the coast without sacrificing the torque needed for a successful launch. The proximity of the Santa Monica Mountains means some owners may also face elevation changes before reaching the harbor, making engine performance a top priority. When you are ready to find a vehicle that fits this dual-purpose role, you can find our showroom location easily accessible on Santa Monica Blvd. We focus on providing transparent information so that local professionals and families can make an informed decision about their next maritime partner.
If you have questions about which configuration best suits the specific weight of your boat and trailer, feel free to give us a quick call to speak with a specialist. We prioritize reliability and safety, ensuring that every truck we recommend can handle the rigors of coastal life. Whether you are a first-time boat owner or a seasoned captain, having the right equipment makes the difference between a stressful afternoon at the ramp and a seamless start to your time on the water.
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Table of Contents
- Choosing Your Marine Hauler: F-150 vs. Super Duty for Boat Towing
- Matching Your Vessel: Ford F-150 Configurations and Towing Capacities
- Selecting the Ideal F-150 Engine for Launching and Hauling
- Launching with Confidence: Pro Trailer Backup Assist and Waterproof Marine Cameras
- Mechanical Dynamics: Axle Ratios and Steep Ramp Performance
- Saltwater Defense: Crucial Maintenance for Coastal Southern California Trucks
- Towing Safety Standards: Weight-Distributing Hitches and Test-Drive Best Practices
- Common Questions About Towing Boats with Ford Trucks
- Preparing for Your Next Coastal Adventure at Santa Monica Ford
Choosing Your Marine Hauler: F-150 vs. Super Duty for Boat Towing
Selecting the right truck for marine activities depends heavily on the gross trailer weight of your vessel and the frequency of your trips to the harbor. For the majority of recreational boaters in the region, the 2026 Ford F-150 offers an ideal balance of city-friendly dimensions and significant hauling power. When you shop new Ford F-150 models, you will find a maximum conventional towing capacity of 13,500 pounds when properly equipped. This is more than sufficient for most 20-foot to 30-foot motorboats, which typically weigh between 3,500 lbs and 8,000 lbs including the trailer and gear.
Dimensions & Capacity
| Feature | Standard across all trims |
|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Length | 213.2 |
| Width | 79.9 |
| Height | 77 |
For owners of much larger cabin cruisers or offshore fishing vessels that push toward the five-figure weight range, a heavy-duty platform becomes necessary. If your boat, trailer, and fuel load exceed the limits of a half-ton pickup, you should shop new Ford Super Duty options to ensure you have the appropriate frame and braking power. The 2026 Ford Super Duty F-250 provides the increased cooling and suspension stiffness required for pulling maximum loads up the coastal inclines often found in Southern California. Heavy-duty trucks also offer larger side mirrors and reinforced hitch receivers that provide greater stability when crosswinds hit the trailer on the highway.
Environmentally conscious boaters might also consider the benefits of an all-electric powertrain for shorter trips to the marina. When you shop new Ford F-150 Lightning inventory, you get a truck that produces zero tailpipe emissions while still offering a respectable tow rating for midsize vessels. The instant torque of the electric motors is particularly helpful when pulling a wet trailer up a slippery ramp, providing smooth acceleration without the hesitation sometimes felt in internal combustion engines. While the range decreases when a trailer is attached, the quiet operation and lower maintenance requirements make it an attractive lifestyle choice for local residents.
Matching Your Vessel: Ford F-150 Configurations and Towing Capacities
The 2026 Ford F-150 Tremor and other trims in the lineup offer a variety of configurations that allow you to tailor the truck's capability to your specific marine needs. While the maximum conventional towing capacity is 13,500 pounds, this figure is achieved specifically with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine paired with the Max Trailer Tow Package. It is important to note that drivetrain choice also impacts these numbers; 4x2 models can tow up to 12,300 pounds, while 4x4 versions can tow up to 13,300 pounds in most standard configurations. If you are looking for a more compact option for a jet ski or a small skiff, you might shop new Ford Ranger models, which offer a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 lbs, or even shop new Ford Maverick inventory for lighter loads up to 4,000 lbs.
Warranty
Factory warranty coverage
| Coverage | Duration |
|---|---|
| Basic | 3 years / 36,000 miles (bumper-to-bumper) |
| Powertrain | 5 years / 60,000 miles (powertrain) |
| Corrosion | 5 years / unlimited miles (corrosion—sheet metal/perforation only excluding aluminum) |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 years / 60,000 miles (Roadside Assistance Program) |
For those who prioritize interior space and want to transport a full crew to the marina, the SuperCrew cab with a 5.5-foot bed is the most popular choice. This configuration allows you to shop new Ford Explorer or shop new Ford Bronco models as alternatives if you prefer an SUV, though they typically offer lower tow ratings than the F-Series. Every new truck comes with a basic 3 years / 36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper warranty and a powertrain 5 years / 60,000 miles warranty. This provides peace of mind for owners who are putting their vehicles under the consistent stress of hauling heavy loads.
If you have a specialized need, such as towing a boat while also carrying significant gear in the bed, our team can help you find a truck with a maximum payload of up to 2,440 pounds. This versatility makes the F-150 a better fit for many than performance vehicles; for example, if you shop new Ford Mustang or shop new Ford Mustang Mach-E options, you gain speed or efficiency but lose the utility required for marine recreation. For those with off-road boat access, you may want to shop new Ford Bronco Sport or a Tremor trim to handle sandy or unpaved paths. Even commercial marine operators can find a fit when they shop new Ford Transit vans for transporting equipment and smaller watercraft.
Selecting the Ideal F-150 Engine for Launching and Hauling
Engine choice is the most significant factor in determining how a truck performs at a crowded boat ramp or on a steep coastal grade. The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 is frequently recommended for marine use because it delivers the highest F-150 tow rating of 13,500 lbs when paired with the Tow/Haul Package and Max Tow Axle. This engine produces 400 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque, providing the low-end pull necessary to move a heavy boat from a dead stop on an incline. While the 5.0L V8 remains a popular and reliable choice with 400 hp and 410 lb-ft, the twin-turbocharged V6 typically feels more responsive when a trailer is attached. You can see how these different powertrains feel by visiting our new-vehicle inventory to find a model for a test drive.
Pricing
MSRP and destination charges (source: MarketCheck VIN Decode (consensus))
| Feature | XL | STX | Police Responder | XLT | Lariat | Tremor | King Ranch | Raptor | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $49,116 | $51,983 | $56,475 | $65,271 | $74,568 | $74,652 | $79,568 | $85,137 | $85,358 |
Lowest starting MSRP: XL at $49,116
Engine & Performance
Powertrain specifications across trim levels
| Feature | XL | STX | Police Responder | XLT | Lariat | Tremor | King Ranch | Raptor | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 5.0L V8 | 5.0L V8 | 3.5L V6 | 5.0L V8 | 3.5L V6 | 3.5L V6 | 3.5L V6 | 5.2L V8 | 3.5L V6 |
Standard across all trims:
| Feature | Included |
|---|---|
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD |
The hybrid powertrain is another excellent option for local owners, combining the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 with an electric motor to produce 430 hp and 570 lb-ft of torque. This setup is not only the most fuel-efficient choice in the gas-powered lineup, but it also provides smooth, linear power delivery that is very helpful during delicate trailer maneuvers. The hybrid is rated to tow up to 11,200 pounds, which covers the vast majority of personal watercraft and midsize cruisers. If you are looking to upgrade from a less capable vehicle, we can help you value your trade-in to see how much equity you can put toward a high-torque towing machine.
For those who demand the absolute maximum in performance, the 2026 Ford F-150 Tremor and other high-end trims offer specialized power. The Raptor features a High Output version of the 3.5L engine, while the Raptor R utilizes a supercharged 5.2L V8 making 720 hp. While these trims are designed for off-road speed, they still maintain the ruggedness needed for boat duty. On the other end of the spectrum, the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 is a value-oriented choice that can tow up to 8,400 lbs, making it a very capable option for owners of smaller motorboats or pontoon trailers.
Launching with Confidence: Pro Trailer Backup Assist and Waterproof Marine Cameras
Backing a boat trailer down a narrow ramp into the water is often the most stressful part of the day for many owners. Ford has addressed this challenge with Pro Trailer Backup Assist, a technology that allows the driver to steer the trailer using a simple knob on the dashboard. While the driver controls the knob to indicate the desired direction of the trailer, the truck automatically manages the steering wheel movements. This system is particularly useful at the busy ramps in Marina del Rey, where space is limited and precision is required to avoid blocking other boaters. You can see this tech in action when you shop new inventory at our dealership.
Work & Fleet Readiness
Work & Fleet Readiness — available options with MSRP pricing
| Package | XL | STX | Police Responder | XLT | Lariat | Tremor | King Ranch | Raptor | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment Group 103A (XL High) | $1,195 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Skid Plates (Fleet) | $160 | — | — | $160 | $160 | — | $160 | — | $160 |
| Back Up Alarm System (Fleet) | $230 | — | — | $230 | — | — | — | — | — |
| Commercial Graphics Package 1 (Fleet) | $340 | — | — | $340 | — | — | — | — | — |
| Commercial Graphics Package 2 (Fleet) | $390 | — | — | $390 | — | — | — | — | — |
| Commercial Graphics Package 3 (Fleet) | $490 | — | — | $490 | — | — | — | — | — |
| Commercial Graphics Package 4 (Fleet) | $615 | — | — | $615 | — | — | — | — | — |
| Commercial Graphics Package 5 (Fleet) | $765 | — | — | $765 | — | — | — | — | — |
| Commercial Graphics Package 6 (Fleet) | $915 | — | — | $915 | — | — | — | — | — |
| Back Up Alarm System (Fleet) | $230 | — | — | $230 | — | — | — | — | — |
| Daytime Running Lamps (Fleet) | $45 | — | — | $45 | $45 | $45 | $45 | $45 | $45 |
| LED Warning Strobes by Sound Off Signal -- Amber (Fleet) | $660 | — | — | $660 | — | — | — | — | — |
| LED Warning Strobes by Sound Off Signal -- Amber/White (Fleet) | $660 | — | — | $660 | — | — | — | — | — |
| window, Fixed Privacy Glass with Defroster | $100 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Vinyl Flooring - Black (Fleet) | — | — | — | Included | — | — | — | — | — |
Visibility is just as important as control when your trailer is submerged. Ford trucks are equipped with advanced camera systems that include high-resolution, water-resistant lenses designed to withstand the splashing and humidity of a boat ramp environment. The available 360-degree camera provides a bird's-eye view of the truck and trailer, helping you stay centered in the lane. For those who frequently tow different vessels, the system can store profiles for multiple trailers, keeping track of their dimensions for the blind-spot monitoring system. If you prefer a larger vehicle for family trips, you can also shop new Ford SUVs that offer similar driver-assist features.
Safety is further enhanced by standard features like front crash prevention and side crash tests that earned this generation a TOP SAFETY PICK rating from the IIHS. For fleet or commercial marine use, the XL and XLT trims offer a Back Up Alarm System for $230 and Skid Plates for $160 to protect the undercarriage during difficult launches. These practical upgrades ensure that your truck remains protected even if the ramp is uneven or covered in debris. Having these tools at your disposal turns a potentially difficult maneuver into a routine part of your coastal adventure.
Mechanical Dynamics: Axle Ratios and Steep Ramp Performance
The physics of pulling a heavy, wet boat out of the water requires more than just raw horsepower; it requires the right mechanical advantage. Axle ratios play a crucial role here, as they determine how much torque is sent to the wheels. A higher numerical axle ratio, such as a 3.55 or 3.73, provides more pulling power at low speeds, which is exactly what you need on a steep ramp. Many of the trucks in our used-vehicle inventory may already be spec'd with these towing-friendly gears. When a truck is equipped with the Max Trailer Tow Package, it often includes a reinforced rear axle to handle the increased stress of heavy marine loads.
Lighting & Visibility Upgrades
Lighting & Visibility Upgrades — available options with MSRP pricing
| Package | XL | STX | Police Responder | XLT | Lariat | Tremor | King Ranch | Raptor | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Front License Plate Bracket | Included | Included | Included | Included | Included | Included | Included | Included | Included |
| Illuminated Ford Logo Badge | $530 | $530 | — | $530 | $530 | $530 | $530 | — | $530 |
| Front & Rear Molded Splash Guards | $310 | $310 | — | $310 | $310 | $310 | $310 | — | $310 |
| Windshield Sunscreen | $130 | $130 | — | $130 | $130 | $130 | $130 | — | $130 |
| Fog Lamps | — | — | $145 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| GRILLE LIGHTS | — | — | $725 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| REAR LOWER TAILGATE LIGHTS | — | — | $475 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| FRONT – TO – REAR LIGHTING PACKAGE #1 GRILLE & REAR LOWER TAILGATE | — | — | $1,170 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| AROUND LIGHTING PACKAGE #2 GRILLE/REAR LOWER TAILGATE & FRONT AUX MARKER LIGHTS | — | — | $1,750 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Super Puddle (LED Puddle/Side Mirror Light) | — | — | $295 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Spot Lamp Prep Kit, Driver Only | — | — | $145 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Spot Lamp Prep Kit, Dual Driver and Passenger | — | — | $300 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| DRIVER LED SPOTLAMP (UNITY) | — | — | $405 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| DRIVER LED SPOTLAMP (WHELEN) | — | — | $430 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| DRIVER/PASSENGER LED SPOTLAMP (UNITY) | — | — | $790 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
Lighting and visibility are also critical when you are launching during the early morning or late evening hours. The Police Responder trim, for example, offers a FRONT – TO – REAR LIGHTING PACKAGE for $1,170 that can illuminate the entire work area around the truck. For standard trims like the Lariat or Platinum, an Illuminated Ford Logo Badge is available for $530, and Front & Rear Molded Splash Guards for $310 help keep salt spray off the bodywork. These visibility upgrades ensure that you can see your trailer and the water's edge clearly, regardless of the time of day.
On steep ramps, the 4WD system becomes an essential safety feature. Standard on the Tremor, Raptor, and Hybrid models, 4WD provides the traction needed on slippery, algae-covered concrete. The 2026 Ford F-150 Tremor is specifically designed for these low-traction environments, featuring drive modes that optimize the transmission and throttle response for maximum grip. Even if you are towing a smaller boat, having the security of all-wheel traction provides the confidence needed to launch in varying coastal conditions.
Saltwater Defense: Crucial Maintenance for Coastal Southern California Trucks
For residents in neighborhoods like Wilshire Montana, maintaining the long-term value of a vehicle is a priority, especially when that vehicle is frequently exposed to the ocean. Saltwater is highly corrosive and can cause significant damage to a truck's frame, brake lines, and electrical connections if not managed properly. We recommend that owners who use their trucks for boat launching perform a thorough undercarriage rinse with fresh water after every trip to the marina. This simple step prevents salt from crystallizing on metal surfaces and leading to premature rust. To ensure your vehicle stays in peak condition, you should schedule service online for regular multi-point inspections.
Connectivity, Audio & Smart Access
Connectivity, Audio & Smart Access — available options with MSRP pricing
| Package | XL | STX | Police Responder | XLT | Lariat | Tremor | King Ranch | Raptor | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connectivity Package OTP | $745 | $745 | — | $745 | $745 | $745 | $745 | $745 | $745 |
| SiriusXM 3-Year | $300 | $300 | — | $300 | $300 | $300 | $300 | $300 | $300 |
| Radio Subwoofer | $1,010 | $1,010 | — | $1,010 | — | — | — | — | — |
| SecuriCode Wireless Keypad | $230 | $230 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| SecuriCode® Keyless-Entry Keypad, Driver's Side | — | — | — | $455 | $455 | $455 | $455 | $455 | $455 |
| Remote Keyless-Entry Key Fob | — | — | $350 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Keyed Alike - 1284X | — | — | $50 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Keyed Alike - 1294X | — | — | $50 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Keyed Alike - 0135X | — | — | $50 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Keyed Alike - 1435X | — | — | $50 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Keyed Alike - 0576X | — | — | $50 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Keyed Alike - 0151X | — | — | $50 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Keyed Alike - 1111X | — | — | $50 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Ford Branded Tool Kit | $420 | $420 | — | $420 | $420 | $420 | $420 | — | $420 |
The salt air in Southern California can also affect the longevity of your truck's exterior finish. Adding Paint Protection Film for $400 is a wise investment for coastal drivers, as it provides an extra layer of defense against the elements. Inside the cabin, Full Coverage Rubber Floor Mats for $200 are essential for protecting the interior from sand and moisture brought in from the docks. When you shop new Ford trucks, you can find many of these protective features already included or available as easy add-ons.
Regular maintenance for a towing vehicle should also include frequent checks of the trailer hitch and the truck's braking system. The Roadside Assistance Program, which lasts for 5 years / 60,000 miles, provides an extra safety net if you ever encounter a mechanical issue while away from home. Our service department can verify that your cooling system is operating efficiently, as the added load of a boat trailer can cause engines to run hotter than usual. Keeping up with these service intervals ensures that your truck remains a dependable partner for years of coastal adventures.
Towing Safety Standards: Weight-Distributing Hitches and Test-Drive Best Practices
When your boat and trailer combination exceeds 5,000 lbs, industry standards generally recommend the use of a weight-distributing hitch. This piece of equipment works by spreading the tongue weight of the trailer across all four wheels of the truck, rather than concentrating it solely on the rear axle. This results in a more level ride, improved steering control, and more consistent braking performance. For the 2026 Ford F-150, using a proper hitch setup is required to reach the 13,500-lb maximum rating safely. You can often find parts and service coupons to help with the purchase and installation of these essential towing accessories.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Safety ratings and driver assistance systems
| Feature | XL | STX | Police Responder | XLT | Lariat | Tremor | King Ranch | Raptor | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IIHS Rating | TOP SAFETY PICK | TOP SAFETY PICK | TOP SAFETY PICK | TOP SAFETY PICK | TOP SAFETY PICK | TOP SAFETY PICK | TOP SAFETY PICK | TOP SAFETY PICK | TOP SAFETY PICK |
Standard across all trims:
| Feature | Included |
|---|---|
| Front crash prevention: vehicle-to-vehicle (2.0) overall evaluation: P (with optional equipment) | ✓ |
| Side crash test overall evaluation: G | ✓ |
| Small overlap front (driver-side): G | ✓ |
| Small overlap front (passenger-side): overall evaluation not labeled with “A/B/C…”, but driver/passenger subsection evaluations are shown (driver-side overall G; passenger-side overall G on this page) | ✓ |
| Headlights overall rating (G) | ✓ |
Before finalizing a purchase, we always suggest that boat owners consider the specific dynamics of their trailer. A test drive is a great time to evaluate how the truck's 10-speed automatic transmission handles gear changes under simulated load conditions. While we may not always be able to hook up a full boat for a demo, our team can walk you through the Tow/Haul mode and demonstrate how the integrated trailer brake controller works. The 2026 Ford F-150 Tremor and other trims come standard with trailer sway control, which uses the truck's brakes to counteract any dangerous oscillations from the trailer.
Safety ratings are another crucial consideration for families who use their trucks for weekend excursions. This generation of F-150 has been recognized as a TOP SAFETY PICK by the IIHS, scoring a G (Good) in side crash tests and small overlap front impacts. Standard safety features across all trims include pedestrian detection and forward collision warning. For added convenience during long drives to the harbor, a Mobile Office Package is available for $760 on trims like the XLT and Lariat, providing a flat work surface and extra storage for trip planning and navigation tools.
Common Questions About Towing Boats with Ford Trucks
Q: Which F-150 engine should I choose for a heavy boat? The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 is the strongest choice for heavy hauling, offering a maximum towing capacity of 13,500 pounds. While the 5.0L V8 is a classic and dependable option, the twin turbos of the EcoBoost provide more torque at low RPMs, which is critical for pulling a boat out of the water.
Truck Bed Protection & Utility Covers
Truck Bed Protection & Utility Covers — available options with MSRP pricing
| Package | XL | STX | Police Responder | XLT | Lariat | Tremor | King Ranch | Raptor | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paint Protection Film | $400 | $400 | — | $400 | $400 | — | $400 | — | $400 |
| Bedliner - Plastic, Drop-In | $380 | $380 | — | $380 | $380 | $380 | $380 | $380 | $380 |
| Bed Liner – Spray-in | $625 | $625 | — | $625 | $625 | $625 | $625 | $625 | $625 |
| Paint, Yellow (Fleet) | $660 | — | — | $660 | — | — | — | — | — |
| Tonneau Pickup Box Cover – Retractable | $2,250 | $2,250 | — | $2,250 | $2,250 | $2,250 | $2,250 | $2,250 | $2,250 |
| Tonneau Pickup Box Cover – Soft Folding | $600 | $600 | — | $600 | $600 | $600 | $600 | $600 | $600 |
| Tonneau Pickup Box Cover – Hard Folding | $1,280 | $1,280 | — | $1,280 | $1,280 | $1,280 | $1,280 | $1,280 | $1,280 |
| Hard Rolling Truck Bed Cover by RealTruck Advantage® | $1,310 | $1,310 | — | $1,310 | $1,310 | $1,310 | $1,310 | $1,310 | $1,310 |
| Sport Roll Soft Roll-Up Truck Bed Cover by RealTruck Advantage® | $620 | $620 | — | $620 | $620 | $620 | $620 | $620 | $620 |
| Pro Access Tailgate | — | — | — | — | — | — | Included | — | Included |
| Bed Tailgate Lock by McGard | $50 | $50 | — | $50 | $50 | $50 | — | — | — |
| Tailgate Step w/ Work Surface | $445 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Tailgate Viscous Dampening | $195 | $195 | — | $195 | — | — | — | — | — |
| Bed Cargo Net Horizontal | $90 | $90 | — | $90 | $90 | $90 | $90 | $90 | $90 |
| Bed Hooks - Retractable by Bull Accessories | $70 | $70 | — | $70 | $70 | — | $70 | — | $70 |
Q: Does the F-150 Lightning battery stay safe during a launch? Yes, the battery and electrical components of the electric truck are completely sealed and designed to withstand the wet environment of a boat ramp. You can safely back the truck into the water to the depth required for most launches without compromising the electrical system.
Q: Is a bedliner necessary for a truck used for marine gear? A Spray-in Bedliner for $625 or a Drop-In Bedliner for $380 is highly recommended to protect the metal from the salt, sand, and sharp edges of boat anchors or fishing equipment. You can order genuine parts like these directly through our dealership to ensure a perfect fit for your truck bed.
Q: How does the hybrid system help on steep ramps? The hybrid powertrain uses its electric motor to provide immediate torque as soon as you touch the accelerator, preventing the truck from rolling back and ensuring a smooth pull. This is much more controlled than a traditional gas engine that may need to build RPMs before moving a heavy load.
Q: What is the benefit of the Pro Access Tailgate for towing? This tailgate features an inner section that swings open to the side, allowing you to reach items in the bed even when a trailer is attached. It is standard on the King Ranch and Platinum trims, making it much easier to load and unload coolers or life jackets at the marina.
Interior Comfort & Practical Storage
Interior Comfort & Practical Storage — available options with MSRP pricing
| Package | XL | STX | Police Responder | XLT | Lariat | Tremor | King Ranch | Raptor | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heater, Engine Block | $190 | $190 | — | $190 | $190 | $190 | $190 | $190 | $190 |
| Heater, Engine Block | $190 | $190 | — | $190 | $190 | $190 | $190 | $190 | $190 |
| Vinyl Seat | Included | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Console Vault | — | $430 | — | $430 | $430 | $430 | $430 | — | $430 |
| Interior Upgrade Package | — | — | $610 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Full Coverage Rubber Floor Mats | — | $200 | — | $200 | $200 | $200 | $200 | — | $200 |
| Coordinated Carpet with Carpeted Matching Floor Mats | — | — | $150 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| 40/20/40 Removable Cup Tray | $80 | — | — | $80 | — | — | — | — | — |
| Ash Cup w/ Lighter | — | $135 | — | $135 | $135 | $135 | $135 | $135 | $135 |
| Ash Cup w/ Coin Holder | — | $55 | — | $55 | $55 | $55 | $55 | $55 | $55 |
| First Aid Kit with Ford Logo | — | $60 | — | $60 | $60 | $60 | $60 | $60 | $60 |
| Ash Cup w/ Coin Holder | — | $55 | — | $55 | $55 | $55 | $55 | $55 | $55 |
| Ash Cup w/ Lighter | — | $135 | — | $135 | $135 | $135 | $135 | $135 | $135 |
| Mobile Office Package | — | $760 | — | $760 | $760 | $760 | — | — | — |
Power, Towing & On-Road Performance
Power, Towing & On-Road Performance — available options with MSRP pricing
| Package | XL | STX | Police Responder | XLT | Lariat | Tremor | King Ranch | Raptor | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.0L V8 with Auto Start-Stop Technology | — | $2,340 | — | $2,340 | $2,340 | $2,340 | — | — | — |
| 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid V6 Engine | — | $3,560 | — | $3,560 | $3,560 | — | $3,560 | — | $3,560 |
| 5.2L Supercharged V8 Engine | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | Included | — |
| 3.5L V6 EcoBoost® DOHC Engine | — | — | — | $2,220 | — | — | — | — | — |
Appearance, Wheels & Off-Road Stance
Appearance, Wheels & Off-Road Stance — available options with MSRP pricing
| Package | XL | STX | Police Responder | XLT | Lariat | Tremor | King Ranch | Raptor | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black Platform Running Boards | $250 | — | — | $250 | — | — | — | — | — |
| Running Boards, Black Platform | — | — | $255 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Chrome Running Boards | — | — | — | — | $635 | — | — | — | — |
| Black Appearance Package | — | — | — | $920 | $920 | — | — | — | — |
| Black Appearance Package Plus | — | — | — | $2,170 | — | — | — | — | — |
| Front / Rear Chrome Bumper | — | — | $180 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Bumpers, Front and Rear – Chrome | — | — | — | $250 | — | — | — | — | — |
| Chromed Exhaust Tips | $185 | — | — | $185 | — | — | — | — | — |
| Illuminated Ford Logo Badge | $530 | $530 | — | $530 | $530 | $530 | $530 | — | $530 |
| Pivot Storage Box by UnderCover - Right Hand Side | $330 | $330 | — | $330 | $330 | $330 | $330 | — | $330 |
| Aluminum Crossbed Toolbox by Weather Guard - Matte Black | $1,055 | $1,055 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Aluminum Crossbed Toolbox by Weather Guard - Bright | $1,055 | $1,055 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Aluminum Crossbed Toolbox by Weather Guard - Matte Black | $1,055 | $1,055 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Aluminum Crossbed Toolbox by Weather Guard - Bright | $1,055 | $1,055 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Spare Tire Lock | $85 | $85 | — | $85 | $85 | $85 | $85 | $85 | $85 |
Preparing for Your Next Coastal Adventure at Santa Monica Ford
Our team is dedicated to helping you find the perfect truck that fits both your professional life and your weekend maritime activities. Whether you are interested in the class-leading towing capacity of the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 or the smooth efficiency of the hybrid powertrain, we have the expertise to guide you through every configuration. A truck capable of 13,500 lbs of towing can fundamentally change your access to the water, allowing you to haul larger vessels with confidence. When you are ready to explore your options, you can get directions to our Santa Monica showroom to see our current inventory in person.
Fuel Economy
EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings
| Feature | XL | STX | Police Responder | XLT | Lariat | Tremor | King Ranch | Raptor | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| City MPG | 19 mpg | 22 mpg | — | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 15 mpg | 24 mpg |
| Highway MPG | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | — | 28 mpg | 27 mpg | 24 mpg | 27 mpg | 18 mpg | 27 mpg |
| Combined MPG | 22 mpg | 23 mpg | — | 26 mpg | 26 mpg | 24 mpg | 26 mpg | 17 mpg | 26 mpg |
Standard across all trims: Fuel Type Unleaded
Best combined fuel economy: XLT at 26 mpg
Beyond just the vehicle purchase, we offer a comprehensive support system to keep your truck running smoothly in the coastal environment. From saltwater maintenance tips to the installation of weight-distributing hitches, our service and parts departments are here to ensure your safety and the longevity of your investment. We prioritize transparency and reliability in every interaction, reflecting the heritage of the Ford brand. If you have a specific model in mind or want to compare the fuel economy of the XLT with its 26 combined mpg against the Raptor at 17 combined mpg, give us a quick call today.
Taking the next step toward your new maritime hauler is easy and can be done from the comfort of your home. We encourage you to prequalify for credit online to streamline the process before you visit the dealership. By securing your financing early, you can focus on the technical details and features that matter most for your boat launches. We look forward to welcoming you into our community of drivers who trust our team for all their coastal Southern California adventures.