Many consumers are anxious to get their hands on a Ford Maverick. When the first models of the new truck hit dealer lots early last year, it was impossible to keep them in stock, especially the hybrid versions. Now, less than a month into 2023, retail orders are no longer being accepted for the Maverick due to the automaker’s inability to keep up with the overwhelming demand.

Those lucky enough to own a Ford Maverick love their truck! A recent survey asked owners to rank the vehicle in 10 different categories, and these are the three things Ford Maverick owners loved the most about the highly sought-after truck.

Exterior Styling: The 2022 Ford Maverick is turning heads

J.D. Power recently surveyed real 2022 Ford Maverick owners and asked them what their favorite thing was about their new truck. Exterior styling was the number one answer among respondents.

The unique pickup truck has heads turning driving down the road, due to its sleek design, small bed, and classic blue oval appeal. Winner of the 2022 North American Truck of the Year, the Ford Maverick impresses with a unibody construction that differs from the look of the Ford F-150 pickup.

The Ford Maverick XL base model exterior features include LED headlights and 17-inch steel wheels, with the XLT trim offering alloy wheels and a power-locking tailgate. The multi-position tailgate has adjustable retention cords, making it easily adaptable to any situation.

Two 12V pre-wired connections and two 400-watt 100V electrical outlets in the bed provides access to power no matter where you are, and the Lariat and XLT trims include pre-installed bed lighting. Shorter bedside walls provide easy storage options, making it quick and easy to reach inside the bed. The foldable tonneau cover adds an extra layer of protection and security.

Driving Feel: Owners of the 2022 Ford Maverick love driving the truck

The 2022 Ford Maverick is a fun little pickup to drive. While it shares characteristics with a crossover SUV, it still holds its own as a truck and can transport up to 18 sheets of plywood with no problem. It is adept enough to get into tight parking spaces and performs well both on the highway and off-road.

After driving the exclusive new pickup, the senior editor for Motor1, Jeff Perez, said,

“The Ford Maverick’s unibody design and compact size make it an absolute joy to drive. Whether you’re puttering around town or hitting the highway for a few hours, the Maverick feels completely relaxed in either setting, unlike some larger body-on-frame pickups that are less pleasant on the road.”

Owners tend to agree since the driving feel was ranked number two among current Maverick owners for favorite things about the compact pickup.

Feeling of safety: You can’t put a price on peace of mind

Earning the number three spot on the J.D. Power survey is safety. Drivers want to feel safe going down the road! Ford delivers with the 2022 Maverick pickup truck, which features standard safety technologies such as forward collision and lane departure warning systems. 

Crash imminent braking and dynamic brake support are optional. There is a seat belt reminder system and head restraints for the driver, front passenger, and rear seat. Frontal, curtain, torso/pelvis, and knee airbags provide peace of mind, and there is a child passenger latch location on the back seat.

Driver-assist features include a rearview backup camera, automatic emergency braking, and automatic high-beam headlights. Optional safety features include a lane-keeping system and adaptive cruise control.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the 2022 Ford Maverick an overall 4-star safety rating.