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What is standard on a Ford Maverick?

The base Maverick is built around a hybrid powertrain with front-wheel drive, a contemporary infotainment system, and Ford’s standard safety features. Higher trims add more power, all-wheel drive, and larger screens. In short: you get efficient hybrid fundamentals as standard, with upgrades available for more capability and tech.

The Ford Maverick, introduced as a compact, affordable pickup, emphasizes practicality and efficiency. This article explains what you can expect as standard across the lineup, and where trims diverge to offer more power, all-wheel drive, or upgraded technology.

Powertrain and performance

Below is a concise look at what powertrains are considered standard versus optional, and how drivetrain choices work across the Maverick lineup.

Standard powertrain: 2.5-liter inline-4 hybrid with an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT); front-wheel drive is the default setup; the hybrid is designed for efficiency and typically yields strong real-world mpg for a small pickup.

Optional powertrain: 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharged inline-4 with an 8-speed automatic; enables higher power output for stronger acceleration and towing capability; all-wheel drive is available with this engine.

Drivetrain options: Front-wheel drive is standard with the hybrid; all-wheel drive is available as an option, particularly with the EcoBoost powertrain; drivetrain choice affects traction and capability in adverse conditions.

Transmission differences: Hybrid models use the eCVT for smooth, efficient power delivery; EcoBoost models use a traditional 8-speed automatic for sportier response and higher towing potential.

Towing and payload notes: The hybrid setup generally supports lighter duty towing/payload, while the EcoBoost with the appropriate equipment can tow more (up to roughly 4,000 pounds on properly equipped versions), with payload varying by configuration.

In summary, the Maverick’s standard setup centers on the hybrid engine with front-wheel drive, while the EcoBoost option expands power and the availability of all-wheel drive for more capability. The transmission choices align with the engine selection to balance efficiency and performance.

Technology and safety features

This section covers the tech and safety equipment that Ford commonly brands as standard on the Maverick, plus what upgrades might appear on higher trims.

Infotainment and connectivity: An 8-inch touchscreen is commonly standard, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integrated for seamless smartphone connectivity; a larger 12-inch screen is available on higher trims or as an option in some markets.

Safety and driver-assistance: Ford Co-Pilot360 is standard on Maverick models and typically includes features such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist; additional safety aids (like blind-spot information and rear cross-traffic alert) are commonly offered, with some not always standard on the base trim.

Connectivity features: FordPass Connect (embedded modem and Wi-Fi) is available on the Maverick, often bundled with technology packages or higher trims, rather than being universally standard on the base model.

Additional tech: Steering-wheel controls, Bluetooth, USB ports, and voice-activation are commonly included; higher trims may add wireless charging and navigation options.

Overall, the Maverick emphasizes a modern, user-friendly tech stack with essential safety features as standard, while more advanced display sizes, connectivity, and certain safety aids appear with upgrades and higher trims.

Practicality, comfort, and customization

These practical aspects highlight how the Maverick fits daily use, cargo, and personalization, with key details that customers consider when choosing a trim.

Seating and cargo: The Maverick seats five passengers in a compact, efficient layout, with flexible rear seating to accommodate cargo; the 4.5-foot bed is designed for everyday hauling and can be equipped with various tie-downs and organizers depending on trim.

Interior and comfort: Textures and materials vary by trim, with the base model offering essentials and higher trims adding upgraded upholstery, comfort features, and upgraded storage options.

Storage and usability: The Maverick emphasizes clever cargo solutions, including in-bed options and accessible stowage areas inside the cabin, designed for practicality in urban and light-work use.

Customization and packages: Ford offers option packages (such as upgraded safety, appearance, or tow packages) that allow buyers to tailor the Maverick to their needs, whether that’s more capability, better lighting, or enhanced convenience.

In short, the Maverick provides a practical, comfortable interior with configurable cargo and a range of packages that let buyers upgrade safety, tech, and capability without stepping into a larger truck segment.

Summary

The Ford Maverick’s standard offering centers on a 2.5-liter hybrid with front-wheel drive, a modern infotainment setup, and Ford’s safety suite. Higher trims introduce the EcoBoost turbo engine, all-wheel drive, larger displays, and additional convenience features. Across the lineup, buyers get efficient, flexible transportation with a focus on practicality and contemporary technology, with upgrades available for more power, capability, and luxury.

How much is a standard Ford Maverick?

2025 Ford Maverick Pricing
The 2025 Ford Maverick has a starting sticker price of $29,840, with the range-topping Maverick Tremor kicking off at $42,690.

What is the lawsuit against the Ford Maverick?

Ford Maverick lawsuits involve several issues, including a 12-volt battery defect causing power loss and stalling, a defective side curtain airbag that may not deploy correctly, and a hybrid engine fire risk in certain models like the Escape and Lincoln Corsair, which some Maverick owners are also part of. The lawsuits allege Ford's failures in recalls and fixes for these problems.
12-volt battery defect

Issue: A defect in the 12-volt battery, supplied by Camel Group, can cause sudden power loss, stalling, and failure of the start/stop system, even after being replaced.
Lawsuit: A class action lawsuit was filed claiming the recall's fix is ineffective and that Ford knowingly sold defective vehicles.
Affected vehicles: Primarily 2022 and 2023 Bronco Sport and Maverick models.

Side curtain airbag defect

Issue: A defect in the "Safety Canopy" side curtain airbags may prevent them from deploying properly in a crash.
Lawsuit: A class action lawsuit alleges this poses a severe safety risk and that Ford's temporary fix is insufficient, leaving owners with unsafe vehicles or no vehicle at all.
Affected vehicles: Model year 2022 Ford Maverick trucks.

Hybrid engine fire risk

Issue: A defect can cause a "blown engine," leading to a stall and the release of flammable fluids, creating a risk of fire.
Lawsuit: A class action lawsuit claims Ford sold these vehicles with the defect, and that the company's attempted "fix" was ineffective and did not mitigate the risk.
Affected vehicles: Includes 2020-2022 Ford Escape, 2022 Ford Maverick, and 2021-2022 Lincoln Corsair hybrids. Note: A previous version of this lawsuit was dismissed for lack of evidence of concrete injury.

What are the Ford Maverick trim levels?

The Ford Maverick is available in five trim levels: XL, XLT, Lariat, Lobo, and Tremor. The XL is the base model, while the XLT is a step up with more features. The Lariat is a more luxurious option, the Lobo is a sporty trim, and the Tremor is designed for off-roading.

This video provides a detailed overview of the 2025 Ford Maverick's trim levels and key features: 41sBen’s Car ReviewsYouTube · Mar 22, 2025

XL: The entry-level trim, which includes standard features like the FLEXBED storage system, a 13.2-inch touchscreen, and the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of safety features.
XLT: A more robust trim that adds features like upgraded interior comforts, cubby storage in the bed, and more tie-downs.
Lariat: A more sophisticated and premium trim that includes features like a power-adjustable driver's seat, upgraded wheels, and advanced technology.
Lobo: A sporty and stylish trim with specific features such as a unique front fascia, lowered and tuned suspension, and larger, specialized wheels.
Tremor: A rugged, off-road-focused trim that comes standard with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine and all-wheel drive. It includes an off-road tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, and other specialized off-road features.

What are the cons of a Ford Maverick?

The main cons of the Ford Maverick include limited towing capacity (especially the hybrid model), potential build quality and reliability issues like inconsistent panel gaps, rattles, and recalls, and a basic and noisy interior with uncomfortable seats for some drivers. Owners also report problems with the electronics, such as a slow infotainment system, lagging backup camera, and various software glitches, as well as a stiff ride and high wind noise at highway speeds.
This video discusses the Ford Maverick's performance, handling, and towing capabilities: 1mFuel ForceYouTube · Oct 9, 2024
Performance and capability

Low towing capacity: The hybrid model is limited to 2,000 lbs of towing, while the 4,000 lb capacity of the EcoBoost engine (with the 4K tow package) is still less than some competitors like the Hyundai Santa Cruz.
Stiff ride and noise: The suspension can be stiff, and there is significant wind and road noise at highway speeds, making long trips uncomfortable for some.
Rear seat space: The rear seats are tight for adults.

Build quality and reliability

Build quality concerns: Some owners report inconsistent panel gaps, rattling trim, and a general "cheap" feel to the interior materials.
Recalls and electrical issues: There have been multiple recalls for various issues, and owners have experienced electrical problems like malfunctioning infotainment systems, low 12v batteries, and persistent warning lights.

This video explains some common problems with the Ford Maverick in detail: 55sFuel ForceYouTube · Sep 22, 2025
Comfort and features

Uncomfortable seats: The front seats are often cited as being uncomfortable for long trips due to a lack of cushioning.
Basic interior: While the interior is functional, it is made of hard plastics, and some features like a base model sound system can be disappointing.
Feature limitations: Some desired features, like heated seats or a better sound system, are only available on higher trim levels.
Poor visibility: The large windshield and rear window angle can create blind spots at intersections for some drivers.

This video discusses the comfort, interior features, and usability of the Ford Maverick: 57sOff the Shelf RidesYouTube · Oct 15, 2025

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.