Is the 2023 Ford Maverick the Best Small Truck for Off-Roading?
When it was first introduced, the Ford Maverick marked the return of small trucks here in the United States. And from the get-go, it has been a huge hit with no signs of slowing down in terms of sales. In fact, getting a 2023 Ford Maverick feels impossible right now. But is Ford’s small truck capable enough to handle off-road use? With the 2023 Ford Maverick Tremor, it might be.
What is the FX4 Off-Road package on Ford Maverick?
The FX4 Off-Road package is an option for Ford’s small truck that adds things like all-terrain tires, a better cooling system, and other off-road goodies. But it is no longer the best off-road variant of the Maverick pickup.
No, that honor now goes to the 2023 Ford Maverick Tremor. A compact pickup that is capable of some pretty big things.
The Tremor name is not new to Ford trucks. It’s featured on things like the Ranger, F-150, and even the Ford Super Duty. It’s also an option on the smallest truck that the Blue Oval builds. But, if you want it, you’ll have to opt for the XLT or Lariat trims with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine.
The Tremor package helps this truck off-road
Now, the Ford Maverick Tremor has been covered in-depth. But, I felt it was worth revisiting if you are wondering if you can off-road the Maverick. This small truck is not going to be able to get everywhere that a Jeep Wrangler can, but it is still capable.
For $2,995, the Tremor package adds a 1.0-inch lift kit, a special all-wheel drive system, and a better approach angle. The approach angle of the Maverick Tremor is 30.7 degrees, which is an improvement over the standard truck.
According to Car and Driver, all of those upgrades come together to make a small truck that can handle life on the trail. Ford could have easily made the Tremor package just some kind of appearance package. But the Blue Oval actually took the time to make something that might be worth getting.
Can you buy a 2023 Ford Maverick Tremor?
Unfortunately, you might be out of luck if you want Ford’s small truck. As it stands, order books for the 2023 Maverick have been closed for a bit. But Ford does have plans to ramp up production of this pickup truck. And hopefully, that means more folks can actually get one.
I see plenty of Ford Mavericks in my area, but I certainly haven’t seen one sitting on a dealership lot. And that shows just how popular this vehicle has been. The Blue Oval simply hasn’t been able to keep up with the demand for its better vehicles.
Time will tell whether or not this small truck becomes more widely available. But if you want an off-road pickup, the Maverick Tremor might be one of the better options out there. Hyundai does not have an off-road version of the Santa Cruz, so this Ford product is probably objectively better in that respect.