Test-Driving The 2024 Ford Maverick Lariat

Introduced in 2022 as a smaller and more affordable alternative to the Ford Ranger and F-150, the Maverick quickly outsold its competitors and achieved high sales rankings within Ford’s lineup. Ford couldn’t even fulfill orders in the first year, a situation that persists today due to ever-increasing demand primarily driven by its affordability. In fact, it is the least expensive new Ford vehicle available today. The Lariat trim, standing at the top of the range, adds wireless charging, blind-spot warning, and lane-keep assistance for 2024. Is the 2024 Ford Maverick Lariat worth $35,000? Let’s explore further, shall we?

EcoBoost Or Hybrid?

As with the standard XL Maverick, the 2024 Ford Maverick Lariat receives a 250-horsepower, 277 lb-ft 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission that drives all wheels—a shift from the front-wheel drive setup in other trims. Alternatively, you can choose a 191-horsepower, 155 lb-ft 2.5-liter hybrid engine that powers the front wheels via a CVT transmission. For an additional $800, Ford offers an FX4 off-road package that includes a range of options, such as all-terrain tires on smaller 17-inch aluminum wheels, skid plates, and a trailer hitch receiver. What makes the package particularly appealing is the off-road screen in the instrument cluster, upgraded engine fan, hill descent control, and select driving modes. If you need a work truck, Ford also offers a 4,000-pound tow package with a higher capacity radiator, transmission oil cooler, trailer brake controller, and an upgraded final drive ratio for the AWD system. All things considered, the Maverick really delivers on practical, consumer-focused upgrades.

Refreshingly Unpretentious

Despite its small size, the Maverick retains a strong pickup truck identity. Its compact size actually makes it preferable for maneuvering through city streets and accessing tight job sites. Its design cues are borrowed from the F-150 but scaled down, without the overt ruggedness or aggressive lines. Standard features include 18-inch aluminum wheels wrapped in 225/60R18 all-season tires, though all-terrain tires are available for an additional $800 with a switch to 17-inch wheels. Does its smaller footprint affect the Maverick Lariat’s practicality? Its bed measures 54.4 inches long, about 4.5 feet, which is only around 1.3 feet shorter than regular short beds. The bed can hold up to 1,500 pounds, a class-leading weight rating that even compares favorably to larger pickup trucks.

Designed For Work And Play

Inside, the Maverick Lariat offers seating for five, though the rear seat can be a bit tight for adults. Instead of leather, Ford used Active X for the seating material; it’s comfortable, smooth, easier to clean, resistant to staining, and more durable than leather while still maintaining a premium look. At this price point, the need for leather is minimal, and I really liked the Active X seats. Besides the bed, storage is cleverly integrated into the doors to function as cup holders or storage for various items. There’s additional storage underneath the rear bench seat, which can be used for larger equipment like construction helmets and toolboxes. Upfront, an 8.0-inch Sync3-equipped infotainment display comes standard, along with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The premium 8-speaker B&O sound system is also quite impressive.

An All-Around Appeal

The Maverick’s diverse personality caters to a variety of buyer needs and is often considered the perfect sweet spot between a crossover and a pickup truck. Its versatility makes it more attractive to pickup truck buyers, while its size suits those seeking more than just practicality from a crossover. The engine options are compelling not for their power figures but for their fuel economies: the 2.0-liter EcoBoost averages 33 mpg, while the hybrid returns about 42 mpg.

Verdict

Setting an unbeatable standard in the small pickup truck niche, the 2024 Ford Maverick Lariat is definitely worth considering over competitors like the Hyundai Santa Cruz and Honda Ridgeline. Its diverse capabilities cater to a wide range of needs, from work use to leisure, making it a compelling choice for buyers seeking a well-rounded pickup truck. However, it’s worth noting that both the Santa Cruz and Ridgeline are larger and more spacious.