Ford Maverick vs. Ranger

In the wake of its resolution to stop making sedans, Ford promised to focus on trucks and SUVs. They’ve made good on that promise, and the latest model to enter the ring is the 2022 Ford Maverick. Slotting underneath the Ford Ranger, the Maverick is one of the smallest pickup trucks available in North America.

The big question: would anyone buy a Maverick over a Ranger? With a lower price and a standard hybrid engine, the Maverick can be a surprisingly good alternative for pickup buyers. Here’s a comparison of specs and features to help you understand some of the key differences between these two trucks.

Ford Maverick vs. Ranger Prices

With an MSRP of $22,470 including destination, the Ford Maverick XL Hybrid is the cheapest trim you can buy. That gives it a significant advantage compared to Ford Ranger prices, which start at $27,425. This is a difference in price of nearly $5,000, making the Ranger a smart choice and a relative bargain for buyers.

The most expensive Maverick is the Lariat SuperCrew approaching $31,000 with all-wheel drive. For comparison, the most expensive Ranger is the Lariat at almost $41,000. Real-world prices may vary based on supply & demand, and it should be noted that Maverick prices can be prone to markups due to their popularity.

Ford Maverick vs. Ranger Size

In terms of size, the Ford Maverick is both shorter and narrower than the Ranger. The Maverick is 199.7" long, compared to 210.8" when choosing the Ranger SuperCab or SuperCrew. The Ranger is available in either a 5 or 6-foot bed size, whereas the Maverick has a smaller bed size limited to just 4.5 feet.

Front legroom is nearly identical at 42.8" for the Maverick and 43.1" in the Ranger. When it comes to rear legroom, the Maverick actually comes out ahead at 35.9" versus 34.5" in the Ranger SuperCrew. Despite being a narrower vehicle, the Maverick's smart design manages to have more front shoulder room.

In the available 4x4 configuration, the Ranger has slightly more clearance than the Maverick. The Ranger is available with a trail-focused Tremor package, which adds Fox shocks and more suspension lift. In contrast, the Maverick doesn't have the same option for drivers with their sights set on off-road use.

Despite the Maverick’s smaller dimensions on paper, four adults can still fit comfortably. The Maverick’s bed is shorter, but it can still carry 4'x8' sheets of plywood with the tailgate at the right angle. Shoppers may be impressed by the Maverick's versatility, particularly when it comes to transporting passengers.

Ford Maverick vs. Ranger Specs

Even with its bargain-basement price, the Maverick comes with a solid set of base features. All Mavericks use an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen, while a base Ranger is stuck with a 4.2-inch non-touch display.

One of the biggest differences between the two models is in the construction. Where the Ranger is a traditional body-on-frame pickup, the Maverick uses a unibody construction. As a result, the Maverick may have a more compliant ride along the lines of a car or SUV.

The Ranger’s build may give it the edge away from pavement, but the Maverick’s car-like construction should provide superior handling. The Maverick is also much lighter — at just over 3,500 pounds, the Maverick is nimble by pickup standards.

Unlike the Ranger, the Maverick starts with a gas-electric hybrid engine capable of 42 mpg in the city. A 2.0-liter turbo is optional and offers more power (250 horsepower vs. 162). The turbo also has an advantage in towing at up to 4,000 lbs (vs. 2,000 lbs with the hybrid).

If you plan to haul a lot of gear or do a lot of towing, the Ranger is the better truck with the ability to tow up to 7,500 lbs. Keep in mind that these figures assume the trucks are properly equipped. In the case of the Maverick, this may require the optional Tow Package.

Ford Maverick or Ranger: Which Is Better?

Despite their proximity in Ford’s lineup, these are trucks for different buyers. Traditionalists who want towing capability and a body-on-frame construction should stick to the Ranger. For lighter use, the Maverick offers a solid package with better features and a much lower price. For many buyers, that’s a solid proposition.

For a value-oriented buyer, the Ford Maverick may be the better truck to buy. Its standard hybrid engine offers a level of fuel economy you can't get in a Ranger. Buyers new to the pickup truck segment may appreciate the Maverick's blend of liveability, efficiency, and purpose-built design inside and out.

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