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The Maverick is Ford's smallest pickup truck, but the entry-level compact utility vehicle has plenty to offer.
The Maverick is Ford’s smallest pickup truck, and as such, it isn’t as capable or well-equipped as the Ford Ranger or F-150, yet it still manages to get the job done as an entry-level utility truck. With a $20,000 starting price, the 2023 Ford Maverick is one of the cheapest compact pickup trucks soon to go on sale, and close competition is scarce, reserved for the likes of the Hyundai Santa Cruz or a base-level Chevy Colorado.
Despite its low starting price, the Maverick still has plenty of appeal to those that take it for what it is. After overlooking the lack of interior tech, high-grade towing and cargo capacity, and off-roading capabilities, Ford’s Maverick still covers the basic functions expected of a true pickup truck - and it even offers decent performance options.
The Ford Maverick might not have any exciting tech features or noteworthy mechanical components, but it reaches out in other ways. Here’s what we love about it:
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The base power train available on the Ford Maverick is a hybrid system composed of a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder along with an electric motor, producing a combined power output of 191 horsepower and 155 pound-feet of torque, which is channeled through a continuously variable automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. This option prioritizes fuel efficiency over acceleration and speed, and it provides a glorious EPA estimated return of 42 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, for a combined return of 37 mpg. The hybrid system doesn’t make the Maverick a slouch either, as it’s capable of running from 0-60 mph in 7.7 seconds.
The alternative engine option presents itself as a turbocharged and intercooled 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder that makes 250 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The engine comes standard with front-wheel drive, but can and probably should be upgraded to all-wheel drive, as it helps the 2023 Ford Maverick boost from 0-60 mph in 5.9 seconds. In terms of fuel efficiency, the grittier engine returns 22 mpg in the city (20 less than the hybrid power train) and 29 mpg on the highway, for a combined return of 25 mpg.
Both engine options are enticing in their own ways - one provides segment-leading fuel efficiency, while the other offers impressive acceleration and decent handling.
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No matter the trim, all Mavericks from Ford’s 2023 lineup come in a crew-cab configuration, meaning there’s decent space for four passengers inside the cabin, and a healthy 4.5-foot cargo bed in the rear. Furthermore, the Maverick is loaded with cubbies and small storage areas around the entire cabin, including larger compartments beneath the rear seats. It can carry a total payload of 1,500 pounds, while also being able to tow a maximum of 4,000 pounds, and the Maverick can be equipped with an integrated trailer brake controller.
Interior quality isn’t the greatest - which shouldn’t be a surprise at such a low price point, and standard features are quite scarce, though Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are fortunately one of them. Upgrading to the XLT or Lariat trims unlocks power front seats and dual-zone climate control, while the additional luxury package further enhances the Maverick’s cabin with a wireless charging pad, an upgraded 8-inch infotainment screen, and driving aids such as adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist.
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As an addition to the Maverick’s 2023 lineup, Ford has unveiled the off-road Tremor package, which will only be available on XLT or Lariat trims. The Tremor’s all-wheel drive system features a twin-clutch unit with a rear differential lock, allowing it to send most of the rear axle’s power to either wheel when necessary, and a 1-inch lift that boosts ground clearance to 9.3 inches. The package also includes 5 different terrain and driving modes: pavement, mud, sand, snow, and even a towing mode.
Furthermore, the Maverick Tremor includes a Trail Control system that serves as an off-road cruise control function, unique springs with upgraded shocks, as well as an improved transmission cooler and enhanced half-shafts. 17-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tires improve traction, while a new front-end with an improved approach angle makes the Maverick fit to climb up steep trails and rocks.
The Tremor package provides external design upgrades as well, making the 2023 Maverick meaner with blacked-out badging and a unique grill. Buyers can also upgrade to the Tremor Appearance package, which adds gray Carbonized paint to the roof and mirror caps, as well as additional design graphics.
The 2023 Ford Maverick is one of the cheapest pickup trucks in the entire car industry, yet it still manages to provide great utility along with an array of optional features that turn it into a capable performer.
Santi for short, has been into cars for as long as he can remember, and took up writing as a hobby for nearly a decade to this day. As a student currently studying English Literature and Creative Writing, it's a dream come true to be able to combine both passions in this new chapter as an evergreen writer for HotCars. With a great range of knowledge about the past and current car industry, he looks forward to bringing new and engaging ideas to the website.