The 2023 Ford Maverick continues to make a name for itself as a compact unibody pickup truck with a hard-working demeanor, despite its slight size. It's still fresh off its launch in the USA last year and takes the fight to other small trucks like the Honda Ridgeline and Hyundai Santa Cruz - the Blue Oval is one step ahead, though, as neither of the Ford Maverick's competitors offer an HEV option, while the Maverick gets a hybridized 2.5-liter inline-four with 191 horsepower as standard. If that's not enough grunt, there's a gas engine for the Ford Maverick, too: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine that produces 250 hp and 277 lb-ft. To aid in keeping fuel costs low, the hybrid setup comes with a front-wheel drive setup only, while EcoBoost-equipped models have access to all-wheel drive. Traditional truck owners may lament the small footprint, but those willing to give it a try may find it is practical, nimble, and much less expensive to own and run than the big brutes most are accustomed to.
2023 Ford Maverick Changes: 🚙What’s the difference vs 2022 Maverick?
This is only the second year of the 2023 Maverick's production, so almost no changes were applied to the range other than making new Tremor Packages available for the EcoBoost models in XLT or Lariat trim. The Tremor Off-Road Package endows the Maverick with an off-road-tuned suspension, trail control, front skid plates, a twin-clutch rear drive unit with electronic locking rear differential, advanced 4WD, a heavy-duty transmission cooler, and an off-road screen in the driver's information cluster. Additionally, the bundle adds exterior aesthetics for improved off-roading and some orange accents to draw attention. A unique exterior paint color is also unlocked, and interior schemes unique to the Tremor theme are applied. There is also the optional Tremor Appearance Package that avails the Maverick with Carbonized Gray pain and black body graphics.
Pros and Cons
- Practical cargo facilities
- Hybrid offers great mpg returns
- Small proportions make maneuvering easy
- Accessible starting price
- Highly customizable
- Tremor Pack adds off-road versatility
- Not as powerful as the Santa Cruz
- The ride is not very comfortable
- Interior quality isn't class-leading
- Smaller footprint than traditional trucks - may not appeal to everyone
Best Deals on 2023 Ford Maverick
2023 Ford Maverick XL
2023 Ford Maverick XL
2023 Ford Maverick XL
2023 Ford Maverick Trims
See trim levels and configurations:
| XL | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 8-Speed Automatic | All-Wheel Drive | $22,195 |
| XL Hybrid | 2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid | Continuously Variable Automatic [CVT] | Front-Wheel Drive | $22,195 |
| XLT | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 8-Speed Automatic | All-Wheel Drive | $24,455 |
| XLT Hybrid | 2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid | Continuously Variable Automatic [CVT] | Front-Wheel Drive | $24,455 |
| Lariat | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 8-Speed Automatic | All-Wheel Drive | $27,955 |
See All 2023 Ford Maverick Trims and Specs
2023 Ford Maverick Handling and Driving Impressions
With the Ford Maverick's C2 platform, the pickup can deliver nimble and enjoyable driving characteristics, similar to what you would find with the Escape and Bronco Sport. Sure, it's not quite as b-rawny as traditional full-size trucks, making it a little less suited for heavy-duty work, but it doesn't mean there aren't advantages. Both the steering and suspension system are sharp, which makes it great for urban use - if you can deal with the relatively stiff ride. It does align more with small SUVs in terms of proportions, so it may feel top-heavy if you put too much energy into your steering movements.
If you want to have some fun behind the wheel, a quick review of the Ford Maverick's EcoBoost 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine option will work perfectly with its 250 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque output. The Hybrid's 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle engine and permanent-magnet synchronous motor powered by a 1.1-kWh lithium-ion battery works great for saving fuel but there is little to be admired about its performance characteristics.
Verdict: 🏁Is 2023 Ford Maverick a good Truck?
While not perfect in some categories, the new Ford Maverick pickup truck has a lot going for it that sees it near the top of the segment over some of its more established rivals. Compact proportions make it easy to live with in urban settings while maintaining the versatility of a truck with its generous cargo facilities. Both engines are fit for moderate truck work, but if you want to do heavy hauling, shop one truck size up - the Maverick can't tow more than 4,000 pounds behind it or carry more than 1,500 lbs in the bed.
If you are looking for a general lifestyle truck with a bit of oomph, the EcoBoost and its eight-speed automatic are responsive and rather refined. The hybrid version is clearly focused on saving fuel as it can get a bit rough higher up in the rev range. Maintaining a light throttle is in your best interest in achieving favorable mpg returns, which in turn detracts from its capability. The Maverick comes with a reasonable amount of standard features across all trims, but if you want a truly comprehensive ownership experience, be prepared to fork out for the optional extras.
Check out other Ford Maverick Styles
2023 Ford Maverick Popular Comparisons
The most popular competitors of 2023 Ford Maverick: