2026 Ford Maverick Overview
The 2026 Ford Maverick blends pickup capability with city-friendly size and hybrid efficiency. It’s a practical, budget-conscious choice for drivers who want utility and comfort in a compact pickup truck.
2026 Ford Maverick Powertrain 9/10
The Maverick gives you two powertrain options. The first offers a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and 8-speed automatic that nets 250 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. The second is a 2.5L hybrid mated to a continuously variable transmission, delivering an impressive 40 mpg city and 33 mpg highway and 191 combined horsepower. Drivers have the option of a front or all wheel drive.
Towing tops out at 4,000 lbs when properly equipped, making it perfect for hauling a small camper or an ATV. Ride quality is surprisingly refined for a truck this size—easy to maneuver in tight spots, yet confident on the highway.
2026 Ford Maverick Interior 8.5/10
Inside, the Maverick feels practical yet inviting. Two rows of seating accommodate five passengers, with clever storage under the rear seats. The cabin offers good visibility and a comfortable driving position. Rear legroom is decent for adults on short trips, and the FLEXBED system in the 4.5-foot bed makes hauling a variety of materials a breeze.
2026 Ford Maverick Technology 8.5/10
Ford keeps tech simple and useful. Infotainment includes a 13.2” center display with SYNC 4. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. Optional features include a Wi-Fi hotspot, optional Bang & Olufsen audio, and wireless charging.
Standard driver aids include forward collision warning and lane-keeping assist are standard. The Ford Copilot360 Assist package adds adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and predictive speed assist. Higher level trims include an available 360-degree camera.
2026 Ford Maverick Value 9.25/10
The Maverick XL is the base model. It comes standard with a 2.5L hybrid engine, 17” steel wheels, and a 13.2-inch SYNC 4 system with a six-speaker sound system, starting at an MSRP of $28,145.
Moving up to the recommended Lariat trim includes heated seats and mirrors, 360-degree camera, 19” wheels, hybrid powertrain and ActiveX trimmed seating. Along with an 8-speaker Bang and Olufsen 8-speaker radio. All for a starting MSRP of $38,090
The top spec Maverick Tremor is an off-road focused trim starting at $40,645. This trim level comes with skid plates, off-road tuned suspension, 2.0L EcoBoost with 8-speed automatic transmission. Special edition 17” wheels, and advanced 4WD.
Warranty coverage is standard for the industry with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain. Compared to rivals, the Maverick delivers unbeatable hybrid fuel economy and a lower starting price than the Hyundai Santa Cruz.
Trims & Pricing
2026 Ford Maverick Final Score 9/10
The 2026 Ford Maverick nails its mission: a compact truck that’s easy to live with, affordable, and surprisingly capable. It has single-handedly revived the compact truck segment in the US, at a time when shoppers are getting tired of expensive price tags.
It’s the ideal choice for drivers who want pickup practicality without going full-size. Against the Hyundai Santa Cruz, the Maverick wins with fuel economy and value, while the Santa Cruz edges ahead in cabin refinement and standard technology.
