The compact Ford Maverick is one of the hottest-selling pickup trucks, while the midsize Honda Ridgeline is a top pick for automotive experts. While these trucks are scorned by some traditionalists due to their unconventional unibody designs, both models are solid choices. However, the 2023 Ford Maverick has one big benefit over the Honda Ridgeline. It has a hybrid model — with much higher gas mileage.

Unlike the 2023 Honda Ridgeline, the 2023 Ford Maverick has a hybrid model

Hybrid technology used to be something that automakers primarily applied to smaller sedans and hatchbacks. However, now there are fuel-efficient hybrids for all vehicle types, including pickup trucks.

While the price of gasoline isn’t as high as it was in 2022, it’s still a major cost of vehicle ownership. This is especially the case for many trucks, which tend to be gas guzzlers. However, the 2023 Ford Maverick is a notable exception. With its standard hybrid powertrain, it helps alleviate the cost of gasoline. Conversely, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline doesn’t offer a hybrid. All Ridgeline models are fully gas-powered.

2023 Maverick has higher gas mileage than the 2023 Ridgeline

The hybrid powertrain in the 2023 Ford Maverick delivers high fuel economy. Fusing a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, it has an estimated gas mileage of up to 42 city/33 highway mpg. This is the best fuel economy for a non-EV pickup truck — and much higher than the 2023 Honda Ridgeline.

In comparison, the Ridgeline only gets up to 18 city/24 highway mpg. Compared to the Ridgeline, the Maverick Hybrid gets 24 more mpg for city driving and nine more mpg for highway driving. Also, even if opting for the fully gas-powered version of the Maverick, owners still benefit from higher gas mileage (23 city/30 highway mpg).

Plus, the higher fuel economy results in greater convenience. With its lower fuel consumption, the Maverick requires fewer trips to gas stations compared to the Ridgeline.

Other ways the Ford Maverick is better than the Honda Ridgeline

There are other ways the 2023 Maverick is better than the 2023 Ridgeline. This includes superior off-road capabilities. The Maverick has ground clearance of up to 8.6 inches, compared to 7.6 inches for the Ridgeline, resulting in safer and more effective travel over challenging terrain. Off-road capabilities for the Maverick are further enhanced by the Tremor and FX4 packages.

Plus, with its smaller size, lighter weight, and tighter turning circle, the Maverick is more maneuverable compared to the Ridgeline. This maneuverability is advantageous for navigating curves and corners, backing up, and parking. 

Furthermore, the Maverick is more affordable than the Ridgeline — and is the cheapest pickup truck available. It has a starting price of $22,595 MSRP, compared to $38,800 MSRP for the Ridgeline.

The 2023 Ford Maverick has a hybrid model with high gas mileage, which gives it a big benefit over the 2023 Honda Ridgeline. For automotive shoppers deciding between the two pickup trucks, the hybrid model is a key factor to consider.