Thinking about getting a truck… what are the pros and cons?

I test drove both the Ridgeline and the Maverick. A lot of people swear by the Ridgeline, but I couldn’t justify the price. After a week with my Maverick, I love it! Comfortable, stylish, doesn’t feel cheap, and super roomy. I’m getting 24 MPG in the city right now, and I expect that to improve.

The only real downside is the small bed, but it’s big enough for my needs.

The Maverick drives more like a car than a truck.

The interior looks nice but scratches really easily.

I fit three car seats in the back. It’s tight but doable.

Bed is small, but Ford added some clever features to make it more usable.

If gas mileage is a priority, don’t get the tow package—it really kills MPG.

@Hayes
Do you have numbers to back that up? My Maverick has the tow package, and I’m averaging 28.5 MPG over 26,000 miles.

Ray said:
@Hayes
Do you have numbers to back that up? My Maverick has the tow package, and I’m averaging 28.5 MPG over 26,000 miles.

I’m at 24.4, mostly highway. Should be closer to 30. My old Mustang actually got better gas mileage.

@Hayes
I doubt that.

Ray said:
@Hayes
I doubt that.

It’s true.

The only real weak spot for the Maverick is towing. Base model can do 2,000 lbs, upgraded can do 4,000. Compared to midsize trucks like the Ranger or Tacoma that pull 6,000-7,000, that’s a big difference. If you plan to tow a camper or heavy trailer, you might need something bigger.

The bed, though, is more usable than it looks. It’s deep and fits plywood sheets perfectly. Both engines are solid, and the hybrid’s MPG is amazing.

@Robin
Yeah, the payload is surprisingly good—on par with some midsize trucks and even half-tons.

Sounds like the Maverick is exactly what you need. The bed is short, but I’ve hauled furniture just fine. If you need to move anything over 8 feet long, you might have to get creative.