Whats the difference between a Maverick XL and XLT?

The Maverick XL is Ford’s entry-level trim, focused on value, while the XLT sits a notch higher with more features and flexible engine options. The biggest differences usually show up in powertrain choices, wheels and styling, interior comfort, and tech packages. If you want more capability and conveniences, the XLT is the better pick; if you want to keep costs down, the XL covers the essentials.

Overview: where XL and XLT fit in the lineup

Both trims are part of Ford’s compact Maverick pickup family. The XL is designed to be budget-friendly with core capabilities, while the XLT adds options that broaden performance, comfort, and technology. Exact features and available packages can vary by model year and market, so always check the specific build sheet for your region.

Key differences at a glance

Below is a concise look at how the two trims commonly diverge. The items reflect typical configurations and may vary by year and package availability.

• Powertrain options: The XL often relies on the standard 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle Hybrid, with the XLT offering the optional 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharged engine and, where available, all-wheel drive with EcoBoost.


• Wheels and exterior styling: The XL usually comes with simpler wheels (often steel or smaller alloys) and plain trim, while the XLT upgrades to larger alloy wheels and adds more chrome or refined exterior accents.


• Interior and seating: The XL provides more basic interior materials and manual seating adjustments; the XLT introduces upgraded fabrics, more comfort-oriented seating options, and often a power-adjustable driver’s seat.


• Technology and convenience: The XLT generally includes more standard features and optional upgrades (such as remote start and enhanced audio options), with both trims offering Ford SYNC connectivity and smartphone integration, though the exact packages differ by year.


• Safety and driver-assist: Core Ford Co-Pilot360 features are common to both, but the XLT may offer additional assist options or package contents depending on year and region.


• Pricing and value: The XL is the lower-cost entry point; the XLT commands a premium for the extra equipment and engine choices. The exact price gap varies by year and chosen options.

Overall, the XLT broadens capability and comfort relative to the XL, making it a more versatile mid-range option. The XL remains the straightforward, budget-conscious choice.

Details by area

Powertrain and performance

Across Maverick trims, the standard drivetrain is typically the 2.5-liter hybrid paired with a CVT-style system for efficiency. The XLT expands options by offering the 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbo engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission, and it can be paired with available all-wheel drive in certain configurations. The Hybrid tends to be front-wheel drive, while EcoBoost configurations may include AWD depending on the year and package.

Exterior design and wheels

The XL generally emphasizes practicality with simpler wheels and trim. The XLT upgrades to larger alloy wheels and adds styling touches such as chrome accents, giving it a more finished, mid-tier look without stepping up to the top-tier Lariat.

Interior and comfort

Inside, the XLT typically brings nicer seating materials, the option for a power-adjustable driver seat, and upgraded cabin features. The XL focuses on essential comfort and durable materials, keeping costs down.

Technology and convenience

Both trims include Ford’s SYNC infotainment system with smartphone integration, but the XLT generally offers more standard features and upgrade paths within its packages. This can include better audio, remote start, and additional connectivity options, with availability varying by model year.

Safety and driver-assistance

Ford’s Co-Pilot360 safety suite is commonly available on both trims, with the XLT sometimes including more advanced options via packages. The exact lineup can depend on year, market, and selected options.

Which should you choose?

Choose the Maverick XL if you want the lowest price and are comfortable with fewer features and simpler styling. Pick the Maverick XLT if you want more engine flexibility (including EcoBoost), larger wheels, enhanced interior comfort, and more tech options. If leather seating, premium audio, or the most advanced safety tech are important, you’ll likely look toward the Lariat or higher-tier packages beyond XLT.

Summary: The Maverick XL is the value-focused entry with essential capabilities, while the Maverick XLT adds engine options, styling refinements, and extra comfort/tech for a more versatile mid-level choice. Always confirm the exact features and options for your model year and region, as trims can shift with updates.

Summary

What does the XLT package include in Maverick?

XLT Luxury Package
This package's upgrades include a remote engine start system, an eight-way power driver's seat, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a trailer hitch, body-color heated side mirrors, and a few more benefits to discover.

Is the XL or XLT better?

Neither is definitively "better"; the choice between XL and XLT depends on your priorities and budget. The XL is the more affordable, basic model focused on work-ready functionality, while the XLT builds upon it with additional comfort, convenience, and technology features, making it a better choice for those who prioritize a more modern and comfortable daily driving experience. 
XL (Base Model)

• Pros: More affordable, straightforward and practical, a good option for budget-conscious buyers or those needing a no-frills work truck. 
• Cons: Lacks the extra comfort and convenience features of the XLT, such as cruise control, upgraded interior materials, and more advanced technology. 

XLT

• Pros: Adds comfort and convenience features like a leather-wrapped steering wheel, enhanced infotainment, and more available technology and safety options. It offers a more upscale feel for daily driving.
• Cons: Higher price point due to the added features. 

How to choose

• Choose the XL if: Your primary need is a functional, reliable truck for work, and you want to save money by skipping extra amenities. 
• Choose the XLT if: You want a truck that is more comfortable for daily use and family trips, and you are willing to pay more for features like an upgraded interior, more advanced safety technology, and a better infotainment system. 

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's the difference between the Ford Maverick XL and XLT?

The XL trim is Ford's no-nonsense foundation, built for function, not frills. This trim is work-ready and keeps costs down, whether you're buying a fleet or looking for a budget-friendly option. The XLT trim fits between the bare-bones utility vehicle and the luxury of higher trims.