The Ford F-Series leads the way in Ford’s offerings and outperforms all other pickup trucks on the market. Yet, for those seeking the benefits of a pickup without some of the associated challenges, Ford presents several appealing alternatives.
The Ford Ranger is a midsize pickup that features a crew cab and a 5-foot bed akin to the F-150, and it includes a Raptor model designed for off-road adventures. With a towing capacity of 7,500 pounds, while it may not match the F-150’s capacity for hauling or towing, the Ranger’s smaller size offers improved maneuverability and is more suited for off-road excursions and urban parking, all at a lower price point.
Meanwhile, the Ford Maverick, a compact pickup truck, is built on a road-friendly platform and comes standard with a hybrid powertrain. It gained immense popularity upon its debut in 2022, leading to significant demand that Ford struggled to satisfy. We even awarded it our Best Car To Buy 2022 title. While prices have increased since then, supply has leveled out, enabling it to compete effectively with the Hyundai Santa Cruz, and the Maverick continues to excel in its category.
Assuming you don’t require the full-sized F-150, both the Ranger and Maverick offer compelling options for pickup truck enthusiasts. Which one aligns with your needs better? Let’s dive in and explore.
What sets the Ford Ranger apart from the Ford Maverick in terms of design?
- Both trucks incorporate design features from the F-150.
- The Ranger is approximately one foot longer and half a foot wider than the Maverick.
- The Ranger includes a crew cab with a 5-foot bed, whereas the Maverick has a more compact cab and a 4.5-foot bed.
Each truck accommodates five passengers, but only four can ride comfortably. The Ranger offers additional rear-seat space and flexibility thanks to flip-up rear seats with under-seat storage; however, the upright rear seats can be uncomfortable on long drives. Both models feature limited rear legroom, measuring less than 35 inches.
The configurations for both models are identical, featuring a crew cab paired with a smaller bed. The Ranger, being longer and wider, boasts a 5-foot bed, effectively serving as a midpoint between the larger F-150 and the smaller Maverick. Expect the Ranger to deliver all the truck capabilities associated with being the F-150’s smaller counterpart.
The Maverick shares a platform with the Ford Escape crossover, offering a 4.5-foot bed and a hybrid powertrain option, along with seating that mirrors the Escape. This makes it a great choice for fleet use or as a versatile vehicle for weekend projects, providing a crossover-like driving experience while still being capable of tackling various tasks, from landscaping to moving, without the burdens of a larger truck.
Design-wise, both trucks feature clamp-shaped headlights and a bar across the spacious vertical grille that resembles a dumbbell. The Maverick has a more modern electric style, curving the clamps towards the top of the grille, reminiscent of the F-150 Lightning electric pickup. Both models lack the stepped window design seen on the front doors of the F-150, yet they share fender plates that indicate trim levels. Round wheel arches can accommodate 17-inch steel wheels, though the Maverick offers an option for 19-inch wheels, in contrast to the Ranger’s 18-inch variants. Overall, the Ranger’s larger dimensions give it a more robust pickup truck stance.
The Maverick’s interior features a straightforward but honest design with textured plastic that underscores its budget-friendly nature. Meanwhile, the Ranger’s dashboard echoes the broad, rectangular grille, featuring large ear-shaped air vents flanking either a 10.1-inch or 12.0-inch touchscreen. A dual glovebox adds practicality.
Interestingly, the more economical Maverick comes equipped with a standard 13.2-inch touchscreen and wireless smartphone compatibility. Both models utilize a somewhat flimsy round dial shifter in the center console, which might contradict their rugged appearance; however, the Ranger XL and XLT trims retain a mechanical gear shifter that enhances the driving experience.
Advantage: Ranger on the exterior, Maverick on the interior.
Ranger vs. Maverick: Pricing and Features
The Ranger’s price starts around $34,000 for the XL trim and goes up to about $57,000 for the Raptor model. The Maverick ranges from approximately $28,000 for the XL version to $42,000 for the Lobo trim.
Top recommendations: Ranger XLT and the base Maverick XL Hybrid.
How much does a Ford Ranger cost?
The entry-level Ranger starts at about $34,000, offering standard features like cloth seating, vinyl flooring, power amenities, an 8.0-inch digital instrument display, a 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone integration, and cruise control. However, adding the four-wheel-drive system costs an additional $3,700.
The $41,000 XLT 4×4 trim meets most of our requirements, featuring blind-spot monitors, wireless smartphone charging, LED fog lights, bed lighting, and remote start. It still requires a traditional key ignition. For regular towing needs, consider the Advanced Towing Plus Technology Package ($2,305), which includes a surround-view camera system and Pro Trailer Backup Assist. To achieve Raptor-like capability, add the FX4 Off-Road Package ($1,295), bringing the total to under $45,000.
The $45,120 Lariat trim comes with power front seats, a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, a surround-view camera, twin 12.0-inch displays, a heated steering wheel, and adaptive cruise control. At the top end, the $56,960 Ranger Raptor offers Lariat features plus enhanced shocks, all-terrain tires, and a powerful 405-hp V-6 engine, making it a thrilling drive.
How much does a Ford Maverick cost?
Despite an increase of approximately $6,000 since its debut in 2022, the entry-level Maverick with its hybrid engine remains an attractive option at $28,000. It comes equipped with cruise control, 17-inch steel wheels, and manual-adjust cloth seats—similar to the Ranger—but Ford enhances the experience with a 13.2-inch touchscreen that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This still represents a solid value.
The $32,000 XLT variant includes 17-inch alloy wheels and a power tailgate lock, opening the door to additional features like heated front seats and the FX4 Off-Road Package which includes skid plates and rugged tires.
The new Lobo variant builds upon the XLT features by adding a lowered suspension, 19-inch wheels, and optional adaptive cruise control, alongside heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a power sunroof.
The Lariat model, which comes exclusively with all-wheel drive, boasts synthetic leather upholstery, 19-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, enhanced sound system, a surround-view camera setup, adaptive cruise control, and a towing package. Its price exceeds $40,000, which prompts consideration of the Ranger.
Starting at $45,000, the Tremor package builds on the Lariat, adding off-road components like skid plates, 17-inch all-terrain tires, and a locking rear differential. It is exclusively offered with the turbocharged four-cylinder engine and is limited to a few options, such as a sunroof.
What warranties are available for the Ford Ranger and Maverick?
Both vehicles come with a fundamental warranty covering 3 years/36,000 miles, alongside a powertrain warranty of 5 years/60,000 miles.
Advantage: Maverick.
Ranger vs. Maverick: Performance and Engines
- The Ranger features a 2.3-liter turbo-4 engine producing 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque.
- The more powerful 2.7-liter turbocharged V-6 delivers 315 hp and 400 lb-ft; the Ranger Raptor is equipped with a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6 that provides 405 hp and 430 lb-ft.
- The Ranger comes standard with rear-wheel drive, while four-wheel drive is available as an upgrade.
- The Maverick’s base 2.5-liter inline-4 and electric motor generate 191 hp and 155 lb-ft.
- An optional turbocharged 2.0-liter upgrade raises those figures to 250 hp and 277 lb-ft.
- The Maverick is primarily front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available.
How does the Ford Maverick perform on the road?
There are two distinct experiences within the Maverick lineup. The standard hybrid model excels in fuel efficiency for urban driving and offers a smooth ride. While it may not provide the rapid acceleration of the turbo-4, its quiet operation and continuously variable transmission (CVT) respond adeptly to driver input without lingering on gear ratios. The turbo-4 is better suited for the Tremor and Lobo, delivering more exhilarating starts and power throughout acceleration. The 8-speed automatic transmission may occasionally appear indecisive, but this typically reflects driving style.
Built on the same platform as the Escape crossover, the Maverick features a well-tuned suspension that avoids the rough ride often associated with traditional pickup trucks. The hybrid model utilizes MacPherson struts with coil springs at the front, complemented by a twist-beam rear axle equipped with a stabilizer bar. While it is not a performance-oriented truck, its compact size allows it to prioritize comfort and utility. Models equipped with the turbo-4 include a sturdier independent suspension with trailing arms, enhancing responsiveness for off-road scenarios and increasing towing capacity. Overall, the Maverick is designed for easier maneuverability and a lighter feel compared to conventional trucks, thanks to its unibody construction.
How does the Ford Ranger handle?
The base Ranger features a robust 2.3-liter turbo-4 engine that produces 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, making it noticeably stronger than the Maverick’s optional turbo-4. Its 10-speed automatic transmission is also more responsive in lower gear settings. An optional 2.7-liter turbocharged V-6 produces 315 hp, providing significant towing capabilities. The Ranger Raptor, with its twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6, generates 405 hp and, along with its enhanced suspension—featuring 2.5-inch Fox Live Valve shocks, electronically locking differentials, and 33-inch BFGoodrich KO2 all-terrain tires—may be considered the most thrilling option in Ford’s truck lineup.
The Ranger’s leaf spring setup and solid rear axle result in noticeable rear-end bounce, even compared to other mid-size pickups such as the GMC Canyon. This design is advantageous for towing and carrying loads, and in the Raptor variant, facilitates high-speed off-road performance.
Advantage: Ranger for enjoyment, Maverick for a smooth ride.
Ranger vs. Maverick: Towing Capacity and Payload
The Maverick has a payload capacity of 1,500 pounds and the turbo-4 engine can tow up to 4,000 pounds.
In contrast, the Ranger can handle towing up to 7,500 pounds and has a payload capacity of 1,805 pounds.
The Ranger is better equipped for heavy-duty truck tasks.
For operations involving regular towing or other demanding truck-related tasks, the Ranger surpasses the Maverick’s capabilities. With a standard trailer package and bumper-mounted ball, the Ranger can tow 3,500 pounds. However, by choosing the Max Trailer package—which includes additional cooling and a Class IV receiver—it can achieve a towing capacity of 7,500 pounds, available in either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive variants. The turbo-4 engine supplies ample power, and the 10-speed automatic transmission is adept at managing torque while towing, though it can cause noticeable vibrations throughout the towing experience. Despite this, the leaf springs mitigate any trailer-induced sagging. Payload capacity peaks at 1,805 pounds with rear-wheel drive or 1,711 pounds with four-wheel drive.
For those less confident in towing maneuvers, Ford offers the Pro Trailer Backup Assist for $825. Users merely input specific trailer stats into the touchscreen, engage the tow-haul mode, and the dial becomes a guide for maneuvering the trailer in reverse, making it an intuitive experience similar to a video game.
The Maverick does not include certain features, although a $745 tow package available for the XL, XLT, and Lariat models offers all-wheel drive along with a trailer brake controller, a hitch with a 7-pin connector, and improved engine and transmission cooling. This setup enables a towing capacity of 4,000 pounds, making it competitive within the compact crossover market.
Image Source: Jonathan Weiss / Shutterstock
