2025 Maverick Lariat with 4K Tow… Is it the Perfect Ride?

I need to buy my first car since I’m moving out of the city for a new job. The Maverick keeps standing out as the best option. It’s small enough for city driving, but it can haul 4x8 sheets and tow 4,000 lbs. It’s an AWD hybrid with great fuel economy, remote start, wireless CarPlay, and some solid tech.

It even comes in a funky green (I can’t stand boring colors). It has adaptive cruise, 19-inch wheels, a spray-in liner, and a decent interior.

Yeah, it’s $40K, but so is everything else these days. Am I missing anything, or is this the best all-around vehicle out there?

“Is the Maverick the perfect vehicle?” in a Maverick forum…

Yeah, what do you think?

Derry said:
“Is the Maverick the perfect vehicle?” in a Maverick forum…

Yeah, what do you think?

Honestly, if you want something practical, comfortable, and not crazy expensive, it’s one of the best options out there.

That said, for $40K, you might want to check out the Ridgeline. But if you want similar features as the Lariat Maverick, you’re looking at $45K or more.

I was in the same boat as you. Drove old used cars for years, then came across the Maverick. I wanted a hybrid with AWD, and when the ‘25 model was announced, I knew it was time.

If you can afford it, don’t skimp on features you actually want. My partner went basic on her first new car to save money and now regrets it. If you’re planning to keep it long-term, get what makes you happy.

I went with the Lariat hybrid in green, added 4K tow and AWD. Skipped the moonroof (those always leak eventually). I got the BAP too, just because I liked the look. I’ll add a tonneau cover, bug shield, and a clear wrap for protection later.

Is it the perfect all-around vehicle? I think so. It’s great for homeowner projects and hauling, gets solid MPG even with AWD, and has a lot of customization potential.

It’s not flawless. Ford has had some recalls, the stock battery sucks, and I hate the dial shifter. The new lack of physical HVAC controls also bugs me. But overall, it’s the best mix of capability, efficiency, and price I found.

Good luck with your decision!

@Mal
Appreciate the advice. I tend to buy once and keep things forever, so I really like the Lariat setup. The only thing I’d add is the 4K tow package.

I’m also moving to Minnesota, so heated seats and a heated steering wheel would be a game-changer in winter.

@Roan
Oh yeah, Minnesota winters are unpredictable. Last year was mild, barely any snow, but other years have been brutal. The Maverick should handle it well.

One thing to note—since it’s a hybrid, the cold can affect fuel efficiency since the engine has to run more for heat. The heated seats and steering wheel help with that, though.

Also, welcome to MN!

@Mal
Thanks! Everyone I’ve met has been super nice. The Minnesota stereotype seems to be true.

It would be if it had Toyota reliability.

Toryn said:
It would be if it had Toyota reliability.

Until Toyota makes a small truck like the Maverick, this is the best option.

A Tacoma gets 15 MPG less on a 40-mile commute and costs $8K more. It’s hard to justify the price difference just for Toyota’s reputation.

@Kade
Yeah, I’ve got a 2022 XLT with 4K tow, and I love it. But the recalls have been nuts.

A pickup isn’t a perfect car—it’s a truck. But if you need something car-like that can also haul stuff, it’s a solid choice.

Larkin said:
A pickup isn’t a perfect car—it’s a truck. But if you need something car-like that can also haul stuff, it’s a solid choice.

That’s exactly why it appeals to me. It’s got the flexibility of a truck but still drives like a car (at least from what I’ve read). And being a hybrid just makes it even better.

I had the same thought process and ended up ordering a Lariat in Eruption Green with 4K tow and the blackout package.

No way. $40K for a Maverick is insane.

Dare said:
No way. $40K for a Maverick is insane.

Yeah, I’m trying to find a good combo that keeps it under $33K.

A cheaper option would be the XL for about $33K.

You lose push-button start, heated seats, and some nicer interior materials. But the drivetrain is the same, and I actually prefer the all-black interior of the XL over the blue accents in the XLT.

@Roan
This is what I did. The only thing I miss is adaptive cruise, but you can technically add it later.

Reading your responses, it seems like you already made up your mind. You’re just looking for validation at this point.

Just buy the truck you want.

Morgan said:
Reading your responses, it seems like you already made up your mind. You’re just looking for validation at this point.

Just buy the truck you want.

I have my preferences, but I haven’t made my final decision. I’m open to different perspectives, especially from people who own one.

@Roan
That’s fair. I’m still deciding myself. Love my current car (MK7.5 GTI), but the Maverick is tempting.