Since the introduction of the 2022 Maverick, Ford’s small truck has become quite the hot commodity. In fact, this compact pickup has been so popular that Ford was forced to place a temporary pause on customer orders. Meaning that buyers who wish to purchase a new Maverick either have to wait or find one at a dealership. In January of 2022, the Maverick was actually one of the fastest-selling cars on the market. And considering what this pickup truck brings to the table, that is not necessarily surprising. 

Why is the Ford Maverick so popular?

There are probably multiple factors that go into making the 2022 Maverick a popular pickup truck, it is both affordable and practical. Something that is not often found in today’s automotive market. The base 2022 Ford Maverick has a starting cost of around $20,000, which puts it closer to a compact car than a new truck in terms of pricing.

When it comes to powertrain options, Ford’s small truck comes standard with a hybrid engine. Because of this, buyers can enjoy legitimate efficiency from their pickup. Undoubtedly with today’s high gas prices, a new vehicle that offers savings at the pump is likely to be appreciated. Especially if it has the utility of a pickup truck. 

Is the 2022 Maverick a good truck?

If sales are any sort of indication, the new Ford Maverick is a good truck. According to Ford Authority, this pickup was one of the top-selling vehicles in January. And its sales are really showing no sign of slowing, despite Ford having to put a temporary pause on customer orders. 

It is worth mentioning that the Maverick is a unibody truck. It shares its platform with the Ford Escape and Ford Bronco Sport. Because of this, it does not have the same capabilities as a traditional body-on-frame truck. But for those in search of that kind of capability, there is always the Ford Ranger and Ford F-150.

Which Ford Maverick is best?

Surprisingly the top-trim Maverick Lariat may not be the best version of this small truck from Ford. Both the XL and XLT models should be able to handle most roles, even when equipped with the hybrid powertrain. If you are shopping for a small truck that is capable of some light off-road duty, the Ford Maverick XLT is likely the ideal choice. When equipped with the turbocharged engine, this pickup can also feature all-wheel drive. And that opens the door for the FX4 Off-Road package.

The available off-road package adds a variety of equipment to help this truck handle the road less traveled. This package and the available engine do add to the cost of the Maverick. But to so, that additional pricing may be worth it. 

At the end of the day though, if you want a new Maverick, you may have to face a wait. Orders for the 2023 model are not set to open until August of 2022. And when that happens, it is possible that this popular pickup truck will sell out once again.