Which Ford Maverick Model Offers The Most Value? 

Variety is the spice of life, and the recent addition of the Lobo and Tremor variants to the Ford Maverick portfolio means there’s now more ways than ever to order Ford’s thrifty compact pickup. Car and Driver, which has named the Maverick to its 10Best list each year since the truck’s introduction, decided to dig deep and determine, in its editors’ opinion, which Maverick trim level gives customers the most for their money.  Stivers Ford of South Fayetteville tells you what they determined. 

For 2026, the Maverick lineup consists of the base XL, the mainstream XLT, the sporty-looking Lobo, the luxury-leaning Lariat, and the off-road-focused Tremor. Buyers can also choose front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) along with hybrid or turbocharged drivetrains. Each trim level is designed to appeal to a different buyer, but for the average Maverick shopper with no specific leanings, Car and Driver recommends the Maverick XLT, with an MSRP of $30,645 compared with $28,145 for the XL. Editors cite XLT upgrade features, such as keyless entry and start, power outside mirrors, a power tailgate lock, additional cargo tie-downs in the bed, and 17-inch alloy wheels in place of the steel wheels on the XL. Other XLT upgrades include a tow hitch and a center armrest for the rear seat.  

The standard engine for the XL, XLT, and the rest of the Maverick model line is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. On FWD models, it has an EPA-estimated city/highway/combined fuel economy of 21 / 30 / 24. MPG, respectively. 

On Maverick XLT, a 191-horsepower hybrid-electric drivetrain, which uses a normally-aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder and an electric motor, is available for just an extra $1000. The big draw of this driveline option is improved fuel economy, which the EPA rates at 42 / 35 / 38 MPG city/ highway/ combined for the FWD model. AWD hybrid models are rated at up to 40 / 34 / 37 MPG. All-wheel drive is available with both drivetrains for $2,200. 

Another reason Car and Driver likes the Maverick XLT is the long list of available packages, allowing the truck to be tailored to meet your specifc needs and desires. The $1,890 Luxury Package appears aimed at colder climates with remote engine start and heat for the front seating surfaces, steering wheel and side mirrors. The package also includes a power-adjustable driver seat, 400-Watt Pro Power Onboard inverter, and LED lighting for the bed. 

Driver assistance comes with the $795 Ford CoPilot 360 package, which includes automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, evasive steering assist, lane-keeping assist, intersection assist, automated emergency braking with pedestrian protection, and rear parking sensors. And if you are interested in the Maverick’s maximum 4,000 pound towing capacity, you will need AWD, the CoPilot 360 package, plus the 4K Towing Package, which adds trailer brake controller, 2-inch Class III hitch receiver with four- and seven-pin connectors, transmission oil cooler, 17-inch spare tire, and an upgraded cooling fan, plus a higher-capacity radiator if you have the 2.0-liter engine. 

Car and Driver expressed its opinion, but ultimately, the right Maverick for your money depends entirely on which one best fits your needs and budget. Fortunately, as you can see, there are plenty of options, both figuratively and literally. Find out which Maverick is best for you by visiting Stivers Ford of South Fayetteville, where you will find a vast selection of Mavericks, including the one just for you.