Why do so many people hate the Maverick?

I’ve been lurking here for a while, super interested in the Maverick. Just waiting to find time for a test drive. But man, everyone I talk to about it just trashes it, and I don’t get it.

For me, it checks all the boxes: good on gas (AWD gets the same MPG as my GTI, hybrid is way better), safer and bigger than my GTI, more utility, better for family trips, and it’s still affordable. The only ‘negative’ is actually a positive for me—the truck bed. I’ve never owned a truck, so I’m a little worried about security for stuff in the back, but I know there are solutions for that.

What really blows my mind is the hate from all kinds of people—friends, coworkers, family members, truck owners, non-truck owners… they all say the same things: ‘If you really need a truck, get a Ridgeline.’ ‘Ford sucks, don’t buy one.’ ‘It’s not a real truck.’

I just want a small, efficient, easy-to-use truck for suburban life. I don’t tow heavy, I don’t need a massive truck or SUV, and I don’t get why so many people seem to have a problem with that.

Has anyone else run into this kind of reaction? And for those who own one, what are the actual downsides? Any annoyances? Let’s hear the other side of the story.

You said:

‘I just want a small, efficient, affordable, easy-to-use truck for suburban duties. No need to tow heavy, no need for a large truck/SUV.’

That’s exactly why I bought mine. I did my homework, and for the price, it’s a great option. Is it perfect? No, but no vehicle is.

Forget the haters and get what works for you.

@Riley
At least you bought a truck that actually makes sense for your lifestyle.

I see people drop $80K on a Super Duty just to haul mulch once a year.

Layne said:
@Riley
At least you bought a truck that actually makes sense for your lifestyle.

I see people drop $80K on a Super Duty just to haul mulch once a year.

I live across from a metal shop, and their parking lot is full of lifted F-350s that have never touched dirt. Hope they enjoy their $100K truck that sits in traffic all day.

@Arlo
Buys a $100K truck to do ‘truck stuff’… then parks across four spaces to avoid getting scratched.

Adler said:
@Arlo
Buys a $100K truck to do ‘truck stuff’… then parks across four spaces to avoid getting scratched.

At least they’re parking at the back of the lot instead of blocking three spots up front.

Adler said:
@Arlo
Buys a $100K truck to do ‘truck stuff’… then parks across four spaces to avoid getting scratched.

Just because it’s a truck doesn’t mean you can’t take pride in keeping it looking good.

@Frankie
Some people treat trucks like disposable work tools, others take care of them like a sports car. To each their own, I guess.

@Riley
Same reasons I got one. Actually traded in my GTI for it. No regrets.

Caden said:
@Riley
Same reasons I got one. Actually traded in my GTI for it. No regrets.

I get why people compare them, but they’re so different. GTI is all about handling and fun, Maverick is a practical small truck. Two very different goals.

@Benn
Yeah, not really comparing performance. Just looking for something practical to replace my GTI. Different kind of vehicle, but makes more sense for my needs now.

Jessie said:
@Benn
Yeah, not really comparing performance. Just looking for something practical to replace my GTI. Different kind of vehicle, but makes more sense for my needs now.

Makes sense. I’ve been debating replacing both my old Mazda3 and my Ranger with a Maverick. Love the idea of one vehicle that can do both jobs, but still trying to figure out if I’d miss my Mazda too much.

@Benn
Yeah, I get that. My GTI is almost perfect, but I need something my wife can drive too, and she won’t touch a manual. If VW still made an AWD wagon, I’d be all over it, but they killed those off.

@Riley
Appreciate it. Nice to hear from people who actually own one instead of just bashing it from the sidelines.

Honestly, I’ve had nothing but positive reactions. Where are you seeing all this hate?

Jones said:
Honestly, I’ve had nothing but positive reactions. Where are you seeing all this hate?

Same here. Either people like it or they just don’t care. Feels like a made-up issue to me.

Jones said:
Honestly, I’ve had nothing but positive reactions. Where are you seeing all this hate?

Had a 5-minute conversation at a McDonald’s drive-thru about mine. The guy working the window couldn’t wait to get one.

@Val
Yeah, I get compliments and questions about mine all the time.

Jones said:
Honestly, I’ve had nothing but positive reactions. Where are you seeing all this hate?

That’s good to hear. Maybe it’s just my circle of people who don’t get it.

Jessie said:

Jones said:
Honestly, I’ve had nothing but positive reactions. Where are you seeing all this hate?

That’s good to hear. Maybe it’s just my circle of people who don’t get it.

At the end of the day, who cares what other people think? If it fits your needs, go for it. I’m not losing sleep over the opinions of people who overpay for giant trucks they don’t need.