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Ford Maverick Vs Ranger (Complete Head-to-Head Guide)
When it comes to midsize pickup trucks, Ford is undoubtedly a dominant name, offering options that cater to different tastes and needs. The Ford Maverick and Ford Ranger are two stellar offerings from Ford's lineup, each with its unique attributes.
Let’s jump right in and compare these two trucks. We will cover everything you need to know, from safety features to engine types and trim levels.
Ford Maverick
The Ford Maverick, introduced in 2021, is the newest entry in Ford's truck line-up and the smallest. It's powered by a standard hybrid powertrain with a 2.5L four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor, generating 191 horsepower.
The hybrid powertrain, a rarity in the truck segment, allows for impressive fuel efficiency at an EPA-estimated 40 mpg in the city. An optional 2.0L EcoBoost engine providing 250 horsepower is available for those seeking more power.
The Maverick comes with a 1,500-pound payload capacity and a 2,000-pound base towing capacity, extendable up to 4,000 pounds with the optional towing package.
Ford Ranger
The Ranger, on the other hand, focuses more on traditional truck capabilities. It's equipped with a 2.3L EcoBoost engine that produces a robust 270 horsepower, delivering considerable towing and hauling capacity.
The Ranger offers a 7,500-pound towing capacity with its optional towing package and a payload capacity of up to 1,860 pounds, making it significantly more capable than the Maverick for heavy-duty tasks.
As for fuel efficiency, the Ranger has an EPA-estimated rating of 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Plus, it provides automatic emergency braking and is the more powerful model of these two trucks.
Ford Maverick Vs. Ranger: Key Differences
As fans of Ford trucks, we've been thrilled to witness the expansion of their lineup with two great options: the Ford Maverick and the Ford Ranger. Both trucks have their own unique strengths, and we're here to help you understand the key differences between them.
Size and Design
The first thing we noticed was the difference in size. Being a compact pickup, the Ford Maverick is smaller than the midsize Ford Ranger. The Maverick's dimensions make it a more manageable choice.
This is especially true for drivers who prefer better maneuverability. On the other hand, the Ranger is longer, wider, and taller, offering additional configurations like the SuperCab and SuperCrew options.
Power and Capability
Under the hood, there are significant differences in powertrains. The Maverick comes standard with a hybrid setup featuring a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine paired with an electric motor. This setup offers excellent fuel efficiency and is ideal for light-duty tasks.
If more towing capacity is needed, the Maverick does have an optional 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, which allows a maximum towing capacity of 4,000 pounds.
In contrast, the Ranger comes with a more potent 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine as standard, delivering greater power for demanding tasks. This extra power enables the Ranger to tow up to 7,500 pounds, making it the better choice for those needing to haul heavy loads or tow larger trailers regularly.
Interior Space
While the Ranger may be larger on the outside, interestingly, the Maverick has more interior volume. This means that occupants in the Maverick can enjoy additional space for seating and comfort, especially in the rear seats.
Also, the Maverick is equipped with a versatile FlexBed system, making it highly customizable and adaptable for various storage and hauling needs.
Price and Trim Levels
Last but not least, the Maverick's starting price is considerably lower than the Ranger's, making it a budget-friendly choice for those looking for a capable yet affordable pickup truck.
The Maverick is available in three trim levels: XL, XLT, and Lariat, while the Ranger offers XL, XLT, and Lariat, too, with additional packages like the FX4 Off-Road Package available for enhanced off-roading capabilities.
Ford Maverick Vs. Ranger: Performance and Engine
Power
When it comes to power, both the Ford Maverick and the Ford Ranger offer a solid driving experience. The Maverick comes standard with a 2.5L hybrid engine, but you can choose an optional 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas engine if you're looking for more oomph.
On the other hand, the Ranger comes standard with a 2.3L Turbo Inline-4 Gas engine that promises a slightly more powerful drive.
In terms of torque, the Maverick offers impressive numbers even with its base hybrid powertrain. The Ranger's bigger engine gives it an advantage in this area, further accentuating its emphasis on performance.
Fuel Efficiency
The Ford Maverick truly excels in fuel efficiency, owing to its standard hybrid powertrain. Its EPA-estimated numbers are impressive, at 42 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
This easily outperforms the Ranger's 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway ratings, making the Maverick an attractive option if cutting down on fuel costs is a priority. There is also a compact Maverick available.
Now, let's break down some key specifications for both vehicles:
If fuel efficiency and a more environmentally-friendly option are your main concerns, the Ford Maverick is the clear winner because it's one of the better small trucks. It also has better fuel economy.
However, if you're looking for a more powerful truck with greater maximum payload capacity, the Ford Ranger may better suit your needs.
Ford Maverick Vs. Ranger: Exterior and Interior Design
Dimensions
The Ford Maverick is Ford's compact pickup truck and has a smaller footprint compared to the midsize Ford Ranger. In terms of size, the Maverick has less length, width, and height compared to the Ranger.
While this makes for easier maneuvering and parking, it results in a smaller cargo bed by comparison. Despite the differences in size, it's important to note that the Maverick actually has more interior volume than the Ranger. This is due in part to its modern, distinctive style and clever use of space.
Styling
For both trucks, Ford offers various trim levels and options to suit different tastes and needs. The Maverick sports a more modern and futuristic design, while the Ranger retains a more traditional, rugged look.
When it comes to their interiors, the Maverick features sleeker lines and an overall more refined aesthetic compared to the functional and more conventional design of the Ranger.
On the outside, both trucks feature a bold grille and the iconic Ford logo. The Maverick stands out with its unibody construction, offering seamless integration between the cab and the bed.
The Ranger, on the other hand, uses the traditional body-on-frame approach, which helps it maintain its off-road prowess and durability.
Comparing the Technology and Features
Infotainment
We're excited about the infotainment systems in both the Ford Maverick and the Ford Ranger. The Maverick comes with an 8-inch touch screen, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, two USB ports, four speakers, and Ford's voice-activated SYNC® 3 system.
It makes connecting our smartphones and accessing our favorite apps easier than ever.
The Ford Ranger, on the other hand, also features an 8-inch touch screen and SYNC® 3 system.
It includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Ford+Alexa integration, making it even more versatile when it comes to voice control. Both vehicles make staying connected and entertained on the road a breeze.
Safety
One thing we appreciate about both the Ford Maverick and Ranger is their commitment to safety. The Ford Maverick comes with Ford Co-Pilot 360™, a suite of advanced driver-assistance features.
Some of these features include:
- Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
- Lane-Keeping System
- Auto High-Beam Headlamps
- Rear View Camera
- Terrain Management System
The Ford Ranger also offers a range of safety features. Plus, you have numerous cab options and bed configurations. The equipped all-terrain tires also improve the off-road chops and overall handling.
Ford Maverick Vs. Ranger: Which Is Better?
Determining whether the Ford Maverick or the Ford Ranger is "better" depends largely on what you're looking for in a truck. If you're primarily focused on fuel efficiency and urban-friendly driving while still having the utility of a pickup truck, the Maverick is the better choice.
The Maverick is compact, comes with a standard hybrid engine that offers excellent fuel economy, and has a modern interior with the latest tech features. It's also more affordable, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile vehicle on a budget.
On the other hand, if you're after power, performance, and rugged capabilities for heavy-duty tasks or off-road adventures, the Ranger is the superior option. It offers a more robust engine, higher towing and payload capacities, and an optional off-road package, making it ideal for traditional truck users or outdoor enthusiasts.
About The Author
Charles Redding
I've spent many years selling cars, working with auto detailers, mechanics, dealership service teams, quoting and researching car insurance, modding my own cars, and much more.
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