Which is better, Lariat or XLT Maverick?
The stronger overall value for most buyers is the XLT Maverick, while the Lariat trims up the experience with premium features and greater interior comfort for a higher price. If you prize luxury and tech, go Lariat; if you want a balanced mix of capability and cost, XLT is typically the smarter pick.
The Ford Maverick lineup centers on a practical compact pickup with three main trims: XL, XLT, and Lariat. While both the XLT and Lariat share several powertrain options, the choice between them mostly boils down to interior upgrades, technology, and perceived luxury versus price. The most important variables to weigh are how you plan to use the truck (commute vs. work use), your desired level of comfort, and how much you’re willing to spend upfront and over time.
What each trim brings: features and refinement
Below is a side-by-side look at how XLT and Lariat differ in the areas most buyers care about: interior, technology, and comfort.
- Interior and materials: XLT focuses on meaningful comfort and convenience upgrades over the base XL, while Lariat stacks on premium materials (often leather or leather-like upholstery) and more upscale appointments.
- Seating and comfort: Lariat generally offers more driver-oriented comfort features (such as more adjustable seating and sometimes heated features), with XLT providing a strong set of comfort items suitable for daily use.
- Infotainment and screens: Both trims offer Ford’s SYNC system, but Lariat typically includes more advanced or larger display options and upgraded sound systems as part of its package, while XLT provides a robust but simpler setup.
- Convenience and tech: The Lariat adds features like remote start, dual-zone climate control, and other niceties that raise the cabin experience, with XLT covering the essentials and adding available upgrades.
- Appearance and wheels: Lariat models often come with larger or more polished wheel designs and distinctive trim accents that give a more premium feel than XLT.
Both trims share Ford’s driver-assistance technologies and basic safety suites, but the Lariat tends to include more standard creature comforts as part of its higher-tier positioning. If you value leather (or leather-like) seating, upgraded trim, and more interior ambience, Lariat is the clear upgrade over XLT.
Practical takeaway
For everyday value and a strong feature set at a lower price, XLT hits the sweet spot. If you want a more premium cabin and additional luxuries that enhance daily driving, the Lariat justifies its higher cost for many buyers.
Keep in mind that exact features can vary by model year and regional packaging, so it’s worth checking the current Ford configurator or dealer inventory to see what’s included on the exact XLT and Lariat you’re considering.
Performance options: powertrains and drivability
Powertrain choices influence both performance and running costs. Here’s how the Maverick’s two primary engines typically translate for XLT and Lariat shoppers.
- Two main engines: a hybrid setup and an EcoBoost turbocharged engine are available across different trims. The hybrid tends to favor fuel efficiency and front-wheel drive, while EcoBoost offers more power with optional all-wheel drive.
- AWD availability: If you want all-wheel drive, you’ll likely need the EcoBoost engine. The hybrid configuration is commonly FWD, so AWD-equipped Mavericks rely on the EcoBoost option.
- Acceleration and capability: EcoBoost generally provides stronger real-world acceleration and better capability for payload and light towing when paired with the right options, whereas the hybrid emphasizes efficiency for city and daily driving.
In practice, both XLT and Lariat can be configured with either engine depending on year and region, but the EcoBoost with AWD is the more versatile choice if you expect to encounter wet or off-road conditions. The hybrid remains appealing if your priority is lower running costs and you mostly drive in urban settings.
Fuel economy, cost of ownership, and trade-offs
Fuel economy and ownership costs follow powertrain choice more than trim level. Expect a noticeable difference between hybrid and EcoBoost configurations, with the hybrid delivering the best efficiency in typical city driving and the EcoBoost offering stronger performance and versatility for a wider range of use cases. Real-world fuel economy and maintenance costs will depend on how you drive and how you configure your Maverick.
Value and ownership considerations
Price and long-term ownership costs are practical lenses through which to evaluate these trims. Here’s how they typically compare.
- Pricing: XLT sits below Lariat, meaning the initial purchase price is lower and the overall cost of ownership can be more favorable if you don’t need the extra luxuries.
- Equipment value: Lariat includes more premium features as standard, potentially reducing the need for aftermarket upgrades—but at a higher upfront cost.
- Fuel and maintenance: Hybrid models save fuel in daily driving, while EcoBoost variants may incur higher fuel usage but offer stronger performance. Routine maintenance costs are similar, with engine choice having the bigger impact over time.
Ultimately, the decision often comes down to how much you value interior refinement and premium technology versus sticking to a budget while still enjoying a capable and well-equipped small pickup.
Who should pick XLT vs Lariat?
Use this quick guide to align your priorities with a trim choice.
- Choose XLT if you want solid comfort, good tech, and strong value. It delivers most of the practical benefits of the Maverick without the premium price tag of the Lariat.
- Choose Lariat if you prioritize interior luxury, more standard features, and a more premium overall feel. It’s a better fit for daily commuting with a touch of upscale comfort and technology.
- Consider alternatives if you want extreme off-road capability or the newest high-end design features: Tremor or other packages may better suit off-road enthusiasts seeking extra capability beyond the standard XLT or Lariat configurations.
Assess your budget, daily needs, and how much you value premium interior styling versus cost savings. The best choice is the one that fits your priorities and usage profile.
Summary
In the Maverick lineup, the XLT generally represents the best balance of features, performance options, and price, making it the recommended choice for most buyers. The Lariat, by contrast, elevates the cabin and technology, delivering a more premium experience for a higher price. If you’re deciding between XLT and Lariat, weigh your desire for luxury and tech against your budget and how you’ll use the truck most days. For off-road emphasis or the latest high-end features, explore Tremor or other trims that specialize in those capabilities. Ultimately, the right pick hinges on your priorities for comfort, capability, and cost.
