I’m considering the Ford Maverick and wondering how it stacks up against the Ridgeline, Frontier, and Tacoma. Is the Maverick reasonably reliable? Any maintenance issues I should know about? Also, what’s the consensus on the hybrid version?
The Maverick isn’t really a truck in the traditional sense. It’s more like an SUV with an open bed. No truck chassis or suspension.
They don’t really compete directly. The Maverick is a size smaller and falls into the compact segment. I have one and like it, but you should compare trim levels and prices and take a test drive before deciding.
The Ridgeline and others like it are essentially “trucks” built on minivan platforms. The Maverick is budget-friendly but feels cheap in some ways. Personally, I’d choose a Toyota over anything modern.
At the end of the day, it’s a Ford.
The Ridgeline is a Honda Pilot with the back chopped off. The Maverick is similar—essentially a Ford Escape with the back chopped off.
The Frontier and Tacoma are traditional body-on-frame trucks.
As for the hybrid Maverick, it’s FWD only, so it’s fine if you’re in a warm climate and don’t tow much. If you need AWD, you’ll want the gas version. Both the Ridgeline and Maverick are great for light-duty truck tasks but aren’t meant for serious towing or off-roading.
I’m a big Ford fan, but the Maverick gets way too much hype. It’s one of the cheapest vehicles you can buy, and it shows. It has a CVT, a cheap interior, and a bed design that’s part of the quarter panel, which isn’t great. Plus, there are lots of reports of electrical issues. Essentially, it’s just a Bronco Sport with an open bed.
If you’re comparing to the Tacoma, you might want to look at the Ford Ranger instead—that’s a more direct competitor.
@Florian
It’s not that cheap—there are cars like the Nissan Versa that cost almost half as much as the Maverick. But yeah, it’s not exactly heavy-duty either.
@Florian
Mine came with an 8-speed transmission, not a CVT.
Thanks for all the info! I’m currently driving an old 1986 Toyota extended truck with a 20R engine, manual 5-speed, and a 7-foot bed. It’s been great, but it’s showing its age—the bed is rusting, the brakes need upgrading, the steering has a lot of play, and the AC could use an overhaul. It’s not my daily driver; I use it for dump runs, hauling lumber, and helping friends move. My wife is pushing me to replace it, but I’ve considered restoring it instead. Just not sure if it’s worth the cost. That’s my situation right now!