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The 2022 Ford Maverick has quickly become a popular compact pickup truck since its introduction. And while it is available in three different trim levels, the middle trim may offer the most value for your money. The Ford Maverick XLT has a starting price of just $22,360, but of course, that price will vary, especially with current market conditions. It is also worth noting that Ford has paused orders for the 2022 Maverick. So buyers interested in purchasing new may have to wait until 2023 models arrive. But, what exactly makes the 2022 Ford Maverick XLT a small truck worthy of consideration?

The 2022 Ford Maverick shows the top trim isn’t always the best

A yellow Ford Maverick drives on a scenic road as a 2022 small pickup truck.
2022 Ford Maverick | Ford

The Ford Maverick is a small pickup truck that is available in three trim levels. These trims include the Maverick XL, which costs $19,995, the Maverick XLT with a starting cost of $22,360, and the Ford Maverick Lariat which has an MSRP of $25,860. While opting for the top-trim Lariat may seem like a good idea, it may not offer the best value proposition.

The 2022 Ford Maverick XLT comes with 17-inch painted wheels, cloth seats, and a configurable bed. If you are shopping for even more features from your pickup truck, the XLT Luxury package is available. It adds a variety of upscale components, these include things like:

  • Heated front seats
  • Leather-wrapped, heated steering wheel
  • LED bed lighting
  • Trailer hitch with 4-pin
  • Heated sideview mirrors

This package does come at an additional cost, but it may be worth it for some buyers. Especially those who live in winter climates who want to stay comfortable.

The Maverick XLT can be a small, off-road pickup truck

A red compact truck, the Ford Maverick drops off some jet skis at a beachfront.
2022 Ford Maverick | Ford

The 2022 Ford Maverick XLT may come standard with a hybrid engine and front-wheel drive, but a different powertrain is available. For an added fee of $1,085, buyers can opt for the turbocharged engine. Then, for an additional $3,305, the Maverick can come equipped with all-wheel drive.

Adding these features opens the door to Ford’s off-road package, which does add serious off-road capability to the Maverick. With the FX4 Off-Road packages, the Maverick adds skid plates, a heavy-duty radiator and engine cooling fan, as well as different drive modes. It is worth noting that the Ford Maverick is a unibody pickup truck. So, don’t expect it to go everywhere its larger siblings can.

In addition to off-road capability, the Maverick XLT has impressive utility. When properly equipped, it can tow up to 4,000 pounds. So, even as a compact truck, this is still a pickup that is ready to get things done.

How much does the Ford Maverick XLT cost?

A blue Ford Maverick tows a small trailer in front of an urban skyline.
2022 Ford Maverick | Ford

The starting cost of the Ford Maverick XLT is $22,360. This makes it a fairly affordable small truck that still offers legitimate utility. Depending on options, the cost of the Maverick XLT will vary. 

Even still, we feel the XLT trim is ideal for most needs. And, Car and Driver even agrees with that statement.