Ford trucks usually carry hefty price tags, but the 2024 Maverick is a breath of fresh air. It’s an affordable option for people who need a pickup but don’t want to break the bank. With a starting price of just $23,400, the Maverick is the cheapest pickup truck of the 2024 model year. Here’s what you need to know about this compact truck, including its pros and cons.

The 2024 Ford Maverick at a glance: Price, powertrains, and fuel economy

Pricing

The 2024 Ford Maverick stands out for its incredibly low starting price of $23,400, making it the most budget-friendly pickup truck of the year based on its starting MSRP. Ford offers the Maverick in various trims, allowing buyers to tailor their choice to their preferences and requirements.

Powertrain specs

Under the hood, the 2024 Ford Maverick offers two powertrain options. The standard is a fuel-efficient 2.5-liter hybrid engine coupled with an electric motor, providing a combined output of approximately 191 horsepower. For those needing more power, there’s an available 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost engine, delivering a robust 250 hp.

Fuel efficiency

A standout feature of the Maverick is its remarkable fuel efficiency. The hybrid powertrain boasts an estimated fuel economy of over 40 mpg in the city, making it an economical choice for daily commutes and long drives.

What does the 2024 Ford Maverick get wrong?

Limited cab and bed options

One downside of the 2024 Maverick is the lack of diversity in cab and bed sizes. It offers only one cab style (four-door SuperCrew) and a short 4.5-foot bed, limiting options for buyers seeking more customization.

Forgettable styling

While affordability is a big selling point, the Maverick’s exterior design might be considered unremarkable. It lacks the bold, eye-catching elements seen in some of its competitors, potentially making it less appealing to those looking for a visually striking vehicle.

Uninspiring driving experience

Despite its efficiency, the Maverick falls short of providing an exhilarating driving experience. The powertrains, while efficient, may not deliver the level of excitement that some drivers seek in a pickup truck.

Not the best safety ratings

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) ratings are unavailable for the 2024 model year. However, the latest model is mostly unchanged from the 2023 Maverick, which did not earn an IIHS Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ designation. The truck also earned a four-star NHTSA rating, falling short of a perfect five.

What does the cheapest pickup truck get right?

Affordability

The 2024 Ford Maverick shines in the affordability department, making it a true outlier in the truck segment.

Spacious seating and clever storage solutions

Inside, the Maverick impresses with ample seating for up to five passengers and clever storage solutions, enhancing its practicality for daily use and accommodating the needs of families.

Outstanding fuel efficiency

The exceptional fuel efficiency, especially with the hybrid powertrain, positions the Maverick as an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers aiming to minimize fuel costs.

Fun touches and practical features

Adding a touch of personality, the Maverick features fun elements like built-in bottle openers located on the tailgate tie-downs, showcasing Ford’s attention to practical details and creating an enjoyable driving experience.

The 2024 Ford Maverick emerges as a game-changer in the pickup truck market, primarily due to its unprecedented affordability. While it may have shortcomings, such as limited cab and bed options, forgettable styling, and modest safety ratings, its advantages make it a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and efficient pickup.