Taking A Look At Ford’s 2026 Maverick

Ford’s Maverick remains a compact pickup with big-truck utility: up to 1,500 pounds of payload, as much as 4,000 pounds of towing when properly equipped, and an EPA-estimated 42 mpg city from the standard full hybrid powertrain. Hybrid all-wheel drive is now available, and every trim adopts a large 13.2-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Maverick XL
The value leader keeps the essentials: 17-inch steel wheels, LED reflector headlamps, a black mesh grille, Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assist tech, and the FLEXBED system for modular cargo solutions. Inside are cloth seats, an 8-inch instrument cluster screen, under-seat rear storage, and plentiful door cubbies. Power starts with the 2.5-liter hybrid; the 2.0-liter EcoBoost is available, and select configurations add AWD. The result is a straightforward work-and-commute setup with a surprising feature set for the base trim. ( Ford )

Maverick XLT
XLT builds on XL with Intelligent Access and push-button start, a standard 2K hitch receiver, power tailgate lock, 17-inch painted aluminum wheels, and upgrades like an in-bed cubby on the passenger side. Popular bundles include the XLT Luxury Package, Black Appearance Package, FX4 Off-Road Package, and the 4K Tow Package with integrated trailer brake controller. It’s the sweet spot for mixing daily drivability with factory options that prep the truck for towing or light off-road duty.

Maverick Lobo
New to the lineup, Lobo pivots from utility toward street-tuned performance. It pairs a standard 2.0-liter EcoBoost with “Advanced 4WD” and a 7-speed Quick Shift transmission featuring paddle shifters. A twin-clutch rear drive unit enables torque-vectoring, and Lobo Mode (closed-course only) sharpens throttle, shift, and chassis responses. Visuals match the hardware—lowered stance, 19-inch turbofan-style wheels, black roof and Ford ovals, and a unique interior with Grabber Blue/Electric Lime stitching. It’s the lineup’s factory-custom option for drivers prioritizing on-road dynamics.

Maverick Lariat
Lariat takes the comfort lead with 19-inch machined wheels, LED projector headlamps with signature accents and fogs, and a Tough Bed spray-in liner. Driver-assistance steps up to include adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go and speed sign recognition, plus available 360-degree camera and Pro Trailer Backup Assist. Inside are heated front seats and steering wheel, an available B&O 8-speaker audio system, wireless charging, and ActiveX-trimmed seating in Smoked Truffle. Hybrid AWD or the 2.0-liter EcoBoost AWD are available to tailor efficiency or power.

Maverick Tremor
Tremor is the trail-focused build, adding off-road-tuned suspension, an electronic locking rear differential, elevated ride height, and Ford Trail Control with Trail 1-Pedal Drive. Visual cues include bold accent coloring and unique wheel/tire combinations, while hardware upgrades target low-speed control and durability on rocky or rutted ground. It’s the Maverick for acreage access, campsite approaches, and moderate technical terrain without upsizing to a larger truck.

Choosing the right Maverick
Trim selection comes down to priorities. XL delivers maximum value with the hybrid’s efficiency and a full suite of core features. XLT is the flexible middle ground with access to popular tow and appearance packages. Lobo caters to drivers who want a lowered, more responsive street setup with torque-vectoring all-wheel drive. Lariat emphasizes comfort, technology, and luxury appointments while retaining the lineup’s utility. Tremor brings the specialized suspension and traction hardware for frequent dirt and gravel. Regardless of trim, the compact footprint, available AWD (including on the hybrid), and thoughtful storage keep the Maverick uniquely well-rounded among small pickups.