Americans are famously fond of pickup trucks, often preferring them large. The Ford Maverick challenges this trend, offering a driving experience reminiscent of a car, all packaged in a visually appealing design.
Now in its third year, Ford is ramping up production to meet the high demand, essentially reshaping the category on its own. This is a welcome development for customers who have spent months waiting to get their hands on one.
2024 Ford Maverick
The 2024 Ford Maverick comes in three trims: XL ($23,815), XLT ($26,315), and Lariat ($34,855). Add $1,595 for the delivery charge.
This model comes with standard front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive, the latter adding $2,250 to your cost. The Lariat, though, comes with standard all-wheel drive.
Initially, Ford offered the hybrid Maverick as standard equipment. For 2024, the positions were reversed with the hybrid optional. The hybrid adds $1,500 to the cost of the XL and XLT trims, but it is front-wheel-drive only. Choose the Lariat and the price drops by $720.
Shoppers should be aware that Ford offers multiple package upgrades that can add thousands of dollars to the expense. For instance, the XLT and Lariat grades offer a $3,495 Tremor Package with the gas models.
This bundle combines Ford’s full driver-assist technologies with “advanced four-wheel drive” for enhanced off-roading. It isn’t a true four-wheel drive system, but it does utilize technology that routes power to the rear axle and to either rear wheel under certain conditions.
Jeep utilizes a similar arrangement with its small models, including the now retired Renegade.
One final thought: although the Maverick is now the lowest-cost model in Ford’s U.S. lineup, a fully loaded Lariat with the Tremor upgrade tops $37,000.
See Also – 2023 Ford Maverick Tremor Review
Exterior Highlights
Designing a pickup truck around a car’s platform combines thoughtful engineering with smart design to deliver a convincing appearance. The Ford Maverick largely succeeds here with its powerful stance marked by a broad hood, upright roof pillars, and large wheel wells.
A 360-degree survey of its exterior reveals just how much detailing was put into place to deliver the Maverick.
All models come in “SuperCrew” configuration, which is Ford language for a four-door model with slightly smaller rear doors. Ford could have designed the Maverick with two doors, but market demand overwhelmingly skews toward four-door models.
The Maverick’s bed may measure just four-feet-six-inches, but it can handle the 4×8 plywood sheets some buyers need. This is accomplished by adjusting the side cable supports in the truck bed to accommodate them.
Further, Ford offers “hacks” on how to manage other upgrades, including installing a bed rack, adding an additional bed side rail, and installing bed lighting. While most buyers may not need these features, Ford wasn’t about to forget tradesmen when designing this vehicle.
Interior Highlights
Close your eyes (not while driving) and the Ford Maverick exudes a car-like cabin experience. Comfortable seats, easy-to-read displays, ample storage compartments, and loads of available amenities are within grasp.
Certainly, the rear seat is very tight for anyone of adult age, but with some adjustment, two can sit inside or three in a pinch. The standard under rear seat storage compartment is a bonus and the ideal place to secret smaller items from prying eyes.
The cabin has its share of hard plastics and fabric trim, underscoring this model’s practical roots. Move up the trim range and such features as imitation leather seats, a power driver’s seat with lumbar support, and dual-zone climate control come in. A power moonroof option is also available.
Technology and Safety
Ford delivers a commendable package of standard tech features. A six-speaker audio system, smartphone compatibility, and an 8-inch touchscreen display come standard. That display functions as advertised, with minimal learning involvement required.
Most models offer a pair of 110-volt power outlets. One is located in the rear console, while the other is in the truck bed. Move up to the Lariat and this model doubles the USB ports to four, adds a wireless charging port, and includes an 8-speaker B&O (Bang & Olufsen) sound system.
On the safety front, the Maverick comes with automatic emergency braking and automatic LED headlights. Available features include lane management assistance and blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control with full stop and go is another available feature.
Performance
The standard Maverick engine displaces 2.0 liters and comes turbocharged. This four-cylinder powerplant develops 250 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Power routes to the front or to all four wheels utilizing an 8-speed automatic transmission.
This version averages 21 to 26 mpg in combined city and highway driving, depending on how it is packaged. With an optional tow package, this version pulls up to 4,000 pounds.
The Maverick hybrid is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Ford reports a maximum 191 horsepower when the gas engine and electric model work concurrently and 155 pound-feet of torque. Power routes to the front wheels by means of a continuously variable transmission.
The EPA numbers are profound as the Maverick delivers an estimated 42 mpg city and 33 mpg highway for a combined 37 mpg. This version pulls up to 2,000 pounds.
Driving Highlights
“It looks like a truck, but drives like a car,” may be the best descriptor for the Ford Maverick. Ford harnessed its small car platform to create the Maverick, a model that shares its architecture with the Focus (no longer available in the U.S.), along with the Escape and Bronco Sport utility vehicles.
In other words, the Maverick brings small car vibes to the market, in a model with direct steering, firm brakes, and at times, a bumpy ride. That driving experience underscores the differences between the Maverick and its larger Ford stablemates, including the midsize Ranger and full-size F Series pickup trucks.
We’ve tested three Mavericks to date (see also: 2023 Maverick Tremor and 2022 Maverick) and have sampled both the hybrid and gas versions. Our latest model came with the turbo engine. It is our preference for more robust truck-duty work, although the hybrid can certainly match the 1,500-pound standard payload rating for the turbo.
The gas Maverick projects strength with its strong step-off acceleration and strong passing power. You may quickly forget you’re driving a truck as the Maverick maneuvers with ease.
The brakes, though, seem overly sensitive – it takes practice to remember to “go lightly” on the pedal – otherwise, expect to lunge forward in your seat as they activate.
The ride quality is commendable, with the driver’s seat and suspension system providing a cozy experience. However, navigating through rough terrain reveals the Maverick’s compact car characteristics, as its limited length fails to evenly distribute vibrations.
But that’s an understandable and forgivable quality considering its dimensions.
Ford Maverick Considerations
In the Maverick, Ford followed the Honda Ridgeline as the second car-based pickup truck. Since then, the Hyundai Santa Cruz joined in. We still haven’t heard whether other competitors will jump in, but that seems likely as demand for these types of crossover trucks is growing.
As for the Ford Maverick, it offers solid proof that a small pickup truck can be comfortable, economical, and usable. Pricing, though, has climbed $4,000 since its debut or $5,500 for the hybrid. Finding a sub-$30,000 model may be a challenge but ordering one should help you afford the one you want.
Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.
Matt is a member of the Washington Automotive Press Association and is a contributor to various print and online media sources including NAPA, CarsDirect, CapitalOne, and Driven Autos.
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