The Ford Maverick is one of the most sought-after compact trucks in America. It’s become very popular due to its low starting price, surprising value, and impressive fuel economy. It checks almost every box for people who want a drivable truck with comfort, style, basic utility, fuel economy, and more. However, did you know there are alternatives to the Ford Maverick other than the similarly-sized Hyundai Santa Cruz that also get the job done? There are a few reasons someone might not want a 2023 Ford Maverick. For those people, check out the Ford Ranger or Chevy Colorado midsize trucks.

Why do you need a Ford Maverick alternative?

Suppose you’re in the market for a 2022 or 2023 Ford Maverick, good luck. Not only did the 2022 model year sell out instantly, but the automaker is also still backed up on production. Moreover, original reservation holders are still waiting on their new Maverick. As a result, preordering a 2023 Ford Maverick is next to impossible. They’re coming and going so quickly that most people don’t have a chance. Luckily there are a few other options if you’re upset about Mavericks being unavailable.

Instead of the new compact truck from Ford, opt for something with similar capability. For example, a similarly-sized truck with decent fuel economy. While none match the mpg of the Maverick, many try to come close. In addition, Ford’s lineup of trucks contains many other options, one of which is readily available. Plus, the standard equipment is very similar, and the price isn’t much higher. Lastly, Maverick hybrid models don’t come with all-wheel drive, so similarly priced midsize trucks with AWD are an outstanding alternative.

The Ford Ranger is a Maverick alternative that starts under $30,000

Firstly, if you’re a big fan of the Ford brand, there’s a Maverick alternative under the same blue badge. The 2023 Ford Ranger is a perfect solution for many of the problems people have with the Maverick. For example, it’s widely available for purchase, as it isn’t being over-reserved before arriving on dealer lots like its little brother. Next, rear-wheel drive is standard for all Ranger trims, but all-wheel drive is available for any model. According to Ford, AWD costs roughly $3,500 extra, making the base XL trim start at $30,045.

Like the Ford Maverick, the Ranger has a low starting price with rear-wheel drive. Choosing the Ranger XL begins at $26,400, making it one of the most affordable midsize trucks. Unfortunately, the Ranger doesn’t reach Maverick numbers regarding fuel economy. Using the only engine, a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder, it averages 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The most basic Maverick earned an incredible 42 mpg in the city and 33 on the highway.

Why not try a Chevy Colorado?

Without recommending the Hyundai Santa Cruz, reaching Maverick numbers for fuel economy is challenging. However, other midsize trucks get the job done elsewhere, including starting price. One of the biggest reasons for the Ford compact truck’s popularity is the low starting price. Well, the next cheapest midsize truck model is the 2022 Chevy Colorado. According to Chevrolet, it begins at $25,735, which is a few thousand more than the Maverick starting price.

Furthermore, the most basic Colorado is meant to be a work truck. That’s why the name of the base trim is Work Truck. It uses a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder to make 200 horsepower and 191 lb-ft of torque. More importantly, it averages 19 mpg in the city and 25 on the highway. This is about average for the midsize class of pickup trucks. Furthermore, four-wheel drive is about $4,000 more than two-wheel drive. We also think the cheapest Colorado is very poorly-equipped, even compared to the most affordable Maverick.

Ford Maverick alternatives that aren’t a Hyundai Santa Cruz

In conclusion, the 2023 Ford Maverick is an excellent compact pickup truck. Anyone looking for an alternative will likely choose the Hyundai Santa Cruz, as the two are similarly sized, the cheapest models are close in price, and they are one anothers’ fiercest fuel economy competitors. However, if you’re searching for a good Maverick alternative that is not a Santa Cruz, there are a few options. Matching fuel economy isn’t really an option in the midsize truck class. We recommend affordable models like the Ford Ranger or Chevy Colorado, which get optional all-wheel drive, decent fuel economy, and better truck capability.