When it comes to heavy-duty trucks that offer uncompromising towing capability mixed with high-end luxury, Ford stands tall. At the very top of their lineup sits the legendary F-450 platform.
We have two titans on the lot: a loaded-out 2022 F-450 King Ranch and the "Cadillac of pickup trucks," the 2022 F-450 Limited. Both are diesel-powered duallys designed to haul massive 5th-wheel campers and horse trailers with ease.
But when you're spending six figures on a truck, the details matter. Which of these top-of-the-line beasts is right for you? Let’s break down the differences based on our walkaround of these two incredible machines.
The Shared Foundation: Why an F-450?
Before diving into the trim differences, it’s crucial to understand why you buy an F-450 in the first place. Both trucks share features that make them superior towing vessels compared to a standard F-350:
-
Wider Stance: The F-450 features a wider front track and wheelbase, easily identifiable by the massive front fender flares. This provides significantly better stability when towing heavy loads and, surprisingly, a tighter turning radius.
-
Commercial Grade Wheels & Tires: Both come standard with 19.5-inch commercial alloy wheels and heavy-duty Continental tires.
-
Towing Prep: Both feature an 8ft bed with the 5th-wheel/gooseneck prep package installed from the factory, alongside advanced camera systems, including a bed-view camera in the third brake light to make hooking up a breeze.
-
PowerStroke Diesel: Both are equipped with the legendary 6.7L PowerStroke Turbo Diesel engine and include a diesel exhaust brake.
The 2022 Ford F-450 King Ranch: Classic Cowboy Luxury
The King Ranch is an icon. It’s the definitive "Texas edition" truck, perfect for the farm owner or anyone who loves a classic, rugged, western aesthetic.
The Exterior Style: Chrome is King The defining characteristic of the King Ranch exterior is chrome. While monochromatic packages exist, the traditional King Ranch look shown in our review features chrome bumpers, a chrome grille, chrome tow mirror caps, and chrome door handles. It also features fixed, extended running boards that make accessing the bed easier.
The Interior: Rich Chocolate Leather Inside is where the King Ranch truly shines. If you love warm tones, this is it.
-
Color Palette: A beautiful two-tone "mocha" or dark chocolate brown and light brown leather scheme.
-
Details: Rich wood grain trim on the dash and doors, and King Ranch branding embossed everywhere from the center console to the seats.
Note: The unit reviewed was equipped with the "Ultimate Package," meaning it included upgraded LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, and a twin-panel moonroof—options that are usually standard on the Limited.
The 2022 Ford F-450 Limited: Modern Refinement
If the King Ranch is the rugged rancher, the Limited is the CEO in a tailored suit. It is Ford’s most expensive, highest-trim pickup truck, and it makes a bold, modern statement.
The Exterior Style: Painted to Match The biggest visual difference on the outside of the Limited is the absence of traditional chrome.
-
Monochromatic Look: The bumpers (front and rear) and mirror caps are painted to match the body color for a cleaner, sleeker look.
-
Satin Finish: The grille and tailgate appliqué feature a brushed aluminum look rather than bright chrome.
-
Power Boards: Standard equipment includes power-deployable running boards that tuck away neatly for better ground clearance and a cleaner profile.
The Interior: Admiral Blue & Everything Standard The interior of the Limited is polarizing in the best way possible. Ford was bold here.
-
Admiral Blue: The interior features a stunning "Admiral Blue" and grayish-white two-tone leather, distinct stitching, and a suede headliner. It feels akin to a luxury European SUV like a Range Rover.
-
Unique Trim: Dark, black wood grain with subtle hints of blue.
-
Badge of Honor: Each Limited features a center console badge indicating its production number (e.g., #321).
The "Standard" Advantage: The primary appeal of the Limited is that almost nothing is optional. LED headlights, the Bang & Olufsen sound system, adaptive cruise, lane departure, and crucially, massaging multicontour seats, are all standard equipment.
Final Verdict: Which Titan to Choose?
Choosing between the 2022 F-450 King Ranch and the F-450 Limited ultimately comes down to personal preference on aesthetics.
Are you drawn to the classic, warm, chrome-heavy "cowboy truck" vibe of the King Ranch?
Or do you prefer the sleek, painted-to-match exterior, the bold Admiral Blue interior, and the "everything is standard" philosophy of the Limited?
Both are incredible machines capable of heavy work while coddling you in absolute luxury.
Watch the full walkaround and comparison of these two trucks here: