Car Buying Strategies
Search Car Buying Strategies Makes & Models Select a Make and Model Makes & Models Select a Make and Model New Cars Prices Buying Advice
Home / Ford / 2022 Ford Maverick

2022 Ford Maverick Pros vs Cons

Reviewed & fact checked by
James Murdoch

Are You Considering a 2022 Ford Maverick? Here Are Some Reasons For and Against

One of the most alluring new cars on the market for 2022 is the Ford Maverick. For drivers who don't frequently haul large loads, Ford's brand-new small pickup truck is ideal. It undoubtedly gives daily utility a high priority. The Maverick not only provides fuel savings, but it is also reasonably priced. Here are some arguments in favor of buying a new Maverick among truck buyers.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2022 Ford Maverick – The Pros

1. An Affordable Pickup Truck

The 2022 Ford Maverick is the notable pick for drivers looking to get a truck without breaking their budget. This vehicle gives you all the standard features that should come with any new model, plus LED headlights and Wi-Fi connectivity - all at an incredibly affordable price point of under $20K! With its impressive list of amenities combined with a wallet friendly cost, it's no wonder why this newest addition has made waves across America markets.

2. Fuel-Saving Hybrid Powertrain Comes Standard

To help promote an extremely efficient performance, Ford equips the new Maverick with a standard hybrid four-cylinder engine. Its 191-horsepower output is just right for daily commuting. A continuously variable automatic transmission further aids the Maverick’s ability to save money at the pump. Even some of today’s small cars are not as efficient as the hybrid-powered Maverick. According to the EPA’s fuel economy estimates, drivers can anticipate getting a solid 42 mpg town/33 mpg freeway.

3. Punchy Turbocharged Engine

Drivers who care more about performance can upgrade to a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Output jumps to 250 horsepower and nearly 280 lb-ft of torque. Along with the more potent engine comes an eight-speed automatic transmission. Unsurprisingly, acceleration is noticeably quicker. The extra muscle under the hood also brings a higher tow rating. Although gas mileage drops, most people will still consider the turbo Maverick to be a very efficient truck. Owners can look forward to getting a pleasing 23 mpg town/30 mpg freeway.

4. Smooth and Quiet Driving Experience

The new 2022 Ford Maverick feels more poised than a traditional pickup truck. Unibody construction enables it to offer the driving experience of a modern crossover. Whether switching lanes on the interstate or venturing down a curvy back road, this truck inspires confidence. A tight turning radius further highlights the Maverick’s practical design. Many people will also be surprised by the truck’s quietness. A hushed engine and well-insulated cabin help keep noise to a minimum.

5. Optional FX4 Off-Road Package

While the 2022 Ford Maverick may not feature a heavy-duty frame, it’s still capable of venturing off the beaten path. An optional AWD system enhances the pickup's traction on slippery surfaces. Models equipped with all-wheel drive also have a slightly higher ground clearance, thus aiding your ability to tackle rural trails. Ford’s optional FX4 package transforms the Maverick into a more formidable off-road machine. This rugged package’s key upgrades include all-terrain tires, undercarriage protection, exposed tow hooks, and a heavy-duty cooling system.

6. Provides Enough Space for Your Passengers and Cargo

All versions of the new 2022 Ford Maverick feature a crew-cab body style with four full-size doors. This truck can definitely accommodate your family and buddies. Although the Maverick is classified as a compact truck, it actually provides more rear legroom than the larger Ford Ranger. Front-seat comfort is especially impressive for such an inexpensive truck. Because the Maverick’s interior is so versatile, some reviewers describe it as a Swiss army knife. If more cargo space is needed for larger items, drivers can quickly fold down the rear seats.

7. Simple and Functional Interior

Drivers who value simplicity will enjoy the Maverick’s cabin. There’s nothing complicated about its interior. Ford designed every feature to be straightforward and easy to operate. Even the truck’s rotary gear shifter is practical. The Maverick’s infotainment screen sits atop the dash, which eliminates the need for drivers to glance downward. Physical knobs enable drivers to adjust the climate control system without much effort.

8. A Classic Yet Modern Look

The Maverick stands out from the crowd with its modern and boxy exterior design. Its unibody construction ensures a sleek, unified appearance lacks any unattractive gaps between the cab and bed. While lower trims maintain their work truck aesthetic, top-tier models boast more attention-grabbing features like upgraded alloy wheels to give it an eye-catching profile – not to mention vibrant color options such as Cyber Orange or Alto Blue Tinted Clearcoat that take this pickup’s style game up a notch.

9. Can Be Equipped with Advanced Safety Technologies

Ford’s most popular safety technologies are offered on the Maverick. Designed to help prevent drivers from rear-ending another motorist, Pre-Collision Assist with automatic emergency braking is standard. Meanwhile, available blind-spot monitoring helps drives to avoid crossing the path of an unseen vehicle. Intelligent cruise control, lane control, and reverse parking sensors are offered as well.

10. Versatile Bed

The 2022 Ford Maverick is, in many ways, the perfect midsize crossover SUV replacement. Its bed has a payload capacity of 1,500 pounds. From fertilizer bags to mountain bikes, drivers will be able to deliver a wide range of goods. A multi-position tailgate, which is also standard, allows you even more flexibility when moving things. Another crucial component of the Maverick is the easily accessible 110V bed outlet. It can be used to power devices while engaging in outdoor activities like working or camping.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2022 Ford Maverick – The Cons

1. Can't Tow a Big Load

The Ford Maverick from 2022 is not prepared to tow a hefty load. Models with hybrid engines have a below-average 2,000-pound towing capacity. Although adding a turbo engine boosts the pickup's towing capacity to 4,000 pounds, specific drivers might still require a truck with greater power. The Ford Ranger is a better choice because of its 7,500-pound towing capacity.

2. Hybrid Powertrain Does Not Offer All-Wheel Drive

For those living in the Snowbelt, all-wheel drive is a top priority when selecting their next vehicle. The Ford Maverick offers an impressive turbocharged engine to get AWD - but if fuel efficiency is your greatest concern you may prefer its hybrid powertrain instead. Regardless of whichever option you choose for this truck, it will always provide plenty of muscle and great savings at the pump.

3. Optional B&O Sound System’s Speaker Placement

The B&O premium sound system that is an option on Maverick will be appealing to many music fans. The subwoofer's placement on the vehicle has drawn criticism from several automotive critics. Absent an enclosure, it is situated behind the back seat. This might affect how effectively the speaker produces powerful bass.

4. No Safety Ratings

The Maverick is rolling off the production line with all of its cutting-edge safety features, yet it hasn't been formally rated for crashworthiness. An official assessment would provide a greater level of assurance to potential buyers that this truck offers reliable protection in an accident.

5. Certain Luxury Features Are Not Offered

While the 2022 Ford Maverick offers some desirable upgrades, certain luxury features are not available. This pickup does not offer a built-in navigation system. Ventilated seat cushions and genuine leather upholstery are also not found on the Maverick’s list of options.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2022 Ford Maverick vs 2022 Honda Ridgeline

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline and Ford Maverick are both great options for today's truck shoppers. Aside from its in-bed trunk, the larger size of the Ridgeline makes it a perfect choice for families seeking extra cargo space; however, drivers looking to save on fuel costs may prefer the superior economy offered by Ford’s more compact design - not to mention those who need tighter parking solutions or are shopping with a budget in mind.

2022 Ford Maverick vs 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz

If you are looking for a small pickup, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz is adequate to consider. Its car-like driving dynamics and daring look attracts most people. Moreover, Santa Cruz has respectable fuel efficiency. Well, when compared, the Ford Maverick with a hybrid powertrain is far more economical. Another edge of the Maverick is a reduced MSRP. Moreover, the Santa Cruz doesn't frankly come equipped with off-road gear.

2022 Ford Maverick vs 2022 Ford Ranger

Some Ford fans will be deciding between the Ranger and the Maverick. While the Ranger may pack more muscle for towing, it can’t match the efficiency of the Maverick’s hybrid powertrain. Extra rear legroom gives the Maverick another edge over the Ranger. Drivers looking to save money will also favor the less expensive Maverick.

Conclusion

The 2022 Ford Maverick is turning heads with its impressive fuel-efficient design and crossover-like control. Off-road fans will love the optional FX4 package full of strengthened features, while passengers can relax in a welcoming interior. But if you plan to transport heavy loads or go off roading, be aware that this vehicle has limited hauling capacity and no AWD hybrid powertrain option available yet for adventurous drivers.