Pickup trucks are getting more expensive every year, making it tough for budget-conscious buyers to find one that offers both utility and affordability. Thankfully, there’s one model that breaks the mold by delivering strong value without the steep price tag.
This compact pickup comes standard with features that rival what you’d find in more expensive full-size trucks, a practical bed design, and a comfortable cabin with modern tech. It’s versatile enough for daily driving, weekend projects, or light-duty work, all while keeping costs in check.
Whether you’re a first-time truck buyer or just looking to downsize without losing capability, this model proves that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a useful and reliable pickup. With a smart mix of practicality, performance, and affordability, it stands out as one of the best-value trucks you can buy in 2025. Here’s why it matters.
In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including TopSpeed and the EPA.
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The Maverick Is the Only New Truck That Starts Under $30,000
The Ford Maverick launched with the 2022 model year and instantly had everyone talking. It may not be as big or as outright capable as most mid-size trucks, but for those looking for a simple work pickup it is perfect. Ford has also been extremely thoughtful throughout the design process, with the product being an incredibly versatile vehicle.
2025 Trims and Pricing
|
Model |
Starting MSRP |
|---|---|
|
XL |
$28,145 |
|
XLT |
$30,645 |
|
Lobo |
$35,930 |
|
Lariat |
$38,440 |
|
Tremor |
$40,995 |
The Ford Maverick comes in a number of different trims, with each catering to a different kind of buyer. If you’re looking to keep things simple and costs low, then the XL is your best bet. It may not have all the bells and whistles, but it’ll certainly get the job done. The XLT is our trim of choice, though, keeping costs low but adding a number of desirable features that make the Maverick easier to live with.
The Lobo is new for the 2025 model year and is a performance-oriented trim. It features paddle-shifters mounted to the steering wheel and a lowered suspension. The Lariat is a good choice if you’re looking for some extra comfort. If you’re adventurous, the Tremor might entice you, with a unique suspension tune and specific off-road-focused tech.
What’s New For 2025
Beyond the addition of the Lobo trim, Ford has actually made quite a few changes to the Maverick. Its exterior styling has been refreshed, sporting a redesigned front bumper and grille. There are also a number of new and different exterior and interior colors to choose from.
Ford has also upgraded the infotainment system, with a larger screen now adorning the dashboard and wireless Android Auto and Apple Carplay now being standard. The hybrid model can also now be had with all-wheel drive. Finally, the compact pickup gets more standard driver assists than it did last year.
Warranties and Maintenance
- Limited Warranty – Three Years or 36,000 Miles
- Powertrain Warranty – Five Years or 60,000 Miles
- Hybrid Component Warranty – Ten Years or 100,000 Miles
Ford’s warranty package is one of the Maverick’s weakest traits. The American brand offers one of the weakest packages on the market across its entire lineup. They also do not include any complimentary maintenance. This isn’t unique to the Maverick, but it does hurt the truck’s value proposition.
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Choose Between Two Thrifty Powertrain Options
The Maverick is a pickup truck that puts value and versatility above all else. That’s why efficiency is a pretty important factor to consider. Ford offers two different powertrains in the Maverick and, while neither are exceptionally powerful, they are both light on fuel and deliver enough grunt to get the job done.
Performance Specifications
|
Engine |
2.5-Liter Hybrid Inline-Four |
2.0-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four |
|---|---|---|
|
Transmission |
CVT |
7-Speed Automatic |
|
Horsepower |
191 HP |
250 HP |
|
Torque |
151 LB-FT |
280 LB-FT |
|
Driveline |
FWD or AWD |
AWD |
|
0-60 MPH |
7.7 Seconds |
5.9 Seconds |
|
Top Speed |
110 MPH |
110 MPH |
The base powertrain offered on every model besides the Lobo is a hybrid inline-four. It pairs exclusively with a CVT and can be had in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Alternatively, you can opt for the turbocharged four-banger, which is much quicker and comes standard with all-wheel drive. Hybrid models can add all-wheel drive for an additional $2,000.
Before, it was really hard to suggest the hybrid model. Now that it can be optioned with all-wheel drive, we can see its value better. Due to this addition, the Hybrid can now be had with the optional tow package, increasing towing capacity up to 4,000 pounds. Without the package, both models can tow a maximum of 2,000 pounds. Payload capacity is capped at 1,500 pounds.
Fuel Economy
|
Model |
City |
Highway |
Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Hybrid FWD |
42 MPG |
35 MPG |
38 MPG |
|
Hybrid AWD |
40 MPG |
34 MPG |
37 MPG |
|
AWD |
22 MPG |
30 MPG |
25 MPG |
|
Lobo AWD |
21 MPG |
30 MPG |
24 MPG |
|
Tremor AWD |
21 MPG |
27 MPG |
23 MPG |
Now that you can get the upgraded towing package and all-wheel drive, the hybrid model seems like the better option. It is much more efficient than the gas-only model, sitting among some of the most efficient vehicles on the market, according to the EPA’s estimates.
We can’t blame you, though, if the additional power offered in the gas-only model is too hard to resist. However, it’s worth noting that the Lobo and Tremor models have reduced efficiency due to their individual suspension tunes and other additional equipment.
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The Maverick Features a Well-Kitted Interior and a Well-Designed Bed
Ford has been extremely thoughtful in the way that they have designed the cabin and the truck bed of the Maverick. While you might not get the highest quality materials or top-of-the-line technology, Ford’s compact pickup offers innovative storage solutions and plenty of kit that makes using it as a work truck easier.
Interior Dimensions and Design
|
Front Row Headroom |
40.3 Inches |
|---|---|
|
Front Row Legroom |
42.8 Inches |
|
Second Row Headroom |
39.6 Inches |
|
Second Row Legroom |
36.9 Inches |
|
Cargo Bed Length |
4.5 Feet |
|
Cargo Bed Area |
33.3 Cubic Feet |
Every Maverick comes as a double cab with a 4.5-foot truck bed. On the inside, both those in the front and the back have plenty of room to stretch their legs. Ford has included a number of in-cabin storage solutions, including a large cargo hold under the rear seat. The FLEXBED is the highlight of the Maverick’s design, though, offering a number of tie-down points, an adjustable tailgate, and a number of pockets to secure 2x4s or 2x6s.
Base models may not be particularly plush, but they come with all the modern amenities that you could need. There are some cheap plastics used throughout the cabin, but what else would you expect from a sub-$30k pickup? Top models offer dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, and power-adjustable front seats.
Infotainment and Technology
Ford has gotten rid of the old eight-inch infotainment screen, instead now sporting a pretty large 13.2-inch unit. Just as impressive for such a budget model is the fact that wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard on all trims, as is an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot. There is also an eight-inch digital gauge display that sits in front of the driver.
There are plenty of other features that can make the Maverick feel pretty premium despite its budget-oriented price tag. This includes an optional wireless charging pad for your smartphone. Top trims also come with a Bang and Olufsen sound system, which will please most audiophiles.
There are plenty of standard driver assists on the Ford Maverick. Some of the most impressive features include a 360-degree camera, which is new for the 2025 model year, and the Pro Trailer Hitch Assist and Backup Assist system, which makes backing up to connect to a trailer a much easier task.