Ford has always been a front-runner in the crossover, SUV, and pickup market. Sure to impress, the all-new 2022 Ford Maverick is an exciting addition to the automaker’s truck lineup. The compact pickup will fill a niche in the marketplace if pre-orders are any indication. The affordable Maverick offers the best of both worlds and is available in several trim levels creating a harmonious blend between the workhorse truck and conventional SUV.

The all-new 2022 Ford Maverick 

With a starting price of $19,995, the compact pickup truck is sure to lure some SUV consumers its way. Sitting almost 2.5 inches lower than the Ford Ranger, the new Maverick is 199.7 inches long, with 54.5 inches utilized by a practical cargo box. It is one of the smallest pickup trucks on the market today, at only 68.7 inches in height.

The 2022 Ford Maverick is only available as a four-door crew cab but comes with two four-cylinder engine variants. The EcoBoost configuration is comparable to the Ford Bronco Sport, generating a hearty 250 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. The estimated fuel economy is 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined.

The 2.5-liter hybrid, built on the same chassis as the popular Ford Escape, has an estimated fuel economy rating of 40 mpg. The front-wheel-drive pickup generates a combined 191 hp with an electric engine and continuously variable transmission.

The 2022 Ford Maverick is an affordable choice for consumers looking for a great deal on a quality all-around pickup truck. According to Motor1, it is the “cheapest hybrid on the market among all cars, trucks, and SUVs.”

Which Ford Maverick trim level offers the best value?

For just under $20K, the 2022 Ford Maverick XL is the most affordable option in the new product lineup. The base model includes unique cargo features such as the Ford Integrated Tether System, the superior Sync 4 infotainment system, Ford Co-Pilot 360 technology, and standard safety features to complete the package.

With an MSRP of $22,280, the Maverick XLT trim offers cruise control, power mirrors, and much more to enhance the driving experience. A 4.2-inch productivity screen complements the gauge cluster and is standard on both the XL and XLT trim.

The Maverick Lariat trim starts at $25,490 and comes with driver-assist upgrades, ambient lighting, and an enlarged infotainment display. Fully loaded models will cost around $28,295 and include leatherette interior trim and a power sliding rear window.

The XLT trim is the sweet spot of the lineup, with an MSRP of $25,585. An FX4 off-road package and impressive upgrades offer the best value. Motor1 said, “a well-equipped XLT FX4 might not even be $30,000, which strikes us as a great deal for an all-weather everyday adventure machine that barely costs more than a two-wheel drive Toyota Tacoma.”

The 2.0-liter EcoBoost is available in all trim levels for a $1,085 surcharge. All-wheel drive is also optional for another $2,220. The launch of the 2022 Ford Maverick will include a limited First Edition package that is fully loaded. 

Standing up to the competition

The 2022 Ford Maverick has a substantial 1,500-poung payload rating, making the new compact truck an enticing concept. The hybrid and EcoBoost powertrain models can tow 2,000 pounds, while the turbo variant can handle up to 4,000 lbs.

The Ford Maverick is ideal for towing small recreational vehicles, but it doesn’t hold up to the 5,000 lb limit available in the Hyundai Santa Cruz. However, it does make up for its limited towing capacity with an FX4 off-road package that beats out the competition.

The LED headlights, horizontal bed rails, and traditional grille bar on the all-new 2022 Ford Maverick evoke a feeling of the best-selling Ford F-150 truck. Going head to head with the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz, the new Ford Maverick hybrid is more efficient with unmatched style and design features. The Honda Ridgeline and Kia Telluride will also be stiff competitors for the new Ford product, but fans of the Blue Oval will most likely navigate toward the Maverick.