The 2022 Ford Maverick Proves Small Trucks Can be Fun
The 2022 Ford Maverick is a small truck that rides on the unibody C2 platform. This platform is shared with both the Bronco Sport and Ford Escape. As a small truck, it offers serious utility in compact sizing. Which is something that many shoppers are likely to appreciate. Boasting available features like all-wheel drive and a turbocharged engine, the new Maverick proves you don’t have to be a big truck to have fun.
Is the Ford Maverick a good truck?
As trucks get larger and larger, the Ford Maverick takes things in the opposite direction and we feel it does a good job. With a starting price of just $19,995, buyers can get a vehicle that offers the utility of a truck with the comfortable driving of an SUV. Better yet, this vehicle has seating for up to five passengers. Which adds a level of versatility to this small truck.
The base engine of the new Ford Maverick is a hybrid. This adds a level of efficiency to the truck driving experience, although Car and Driver notes that drivers are not getting the advertised fuel efficiency that Ford had published.
For those shopping for a small truck with more power, according to Car and Driver, Ford offers a turbocharged engine. This 2.0-liter option gives the 2022 Maverick 250 horsepower and 277 pound-foot of torque. When equipped with the towing package, the 2.0-liter engine allows the Maverick to tow up to 4,000 lbs. Both engine options give the ability to haul up to 1,500 lbs.
Does the Maverick have AWD?
The 2022 Ford Maverick does come standard with front-wheel drive. But if you are shopping for a small truck with AWD, you can equip it to certain models of the Maverick. To complement this feature, Ford has even given its new small truck access to an off-road package. It is available to both the XLT and Lariat trims and it does add worthy capability.
When equipped with the FX4 Off-Road package this pickup truck gains things like skid plates and additional drive modes. Another notable features are an improved radiator for more cooling capabilities. Something that will come in handy when you put the Maverick to the test.
Is the 2022 Ford Maverick affordable?
Pricing is where the Ford Maverick truly shines, as it won’t break the bank depending on your budget. The price of the Maverick XL starts under $20,000. And while this trim is fairly basic, for the price there are not many complaints.
The Maverick XL MSRP is $22,360 and the Maverick Lariat comes in at $25,860. Depending on options, this truck could be priced at over $30,000, especially with current inventory shortages. So, undoubtedly some buyers will not get as good of a bargain as those who opt for the stripped-down version.
At the end of the day, the Maverick is a welcomed small truck in today’s market. With up to 250 hp and available off-road tech, it is a mix of fun and utility that felt lacking before. And hopefully, other manufacturers begin to explore the world of compact trucks.
