The 2026 Ford Maverick is a compact pickup that can save you money on gas. It receives minor updates this year. Ford reintroduces front-wheel drive (FWD) for the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine and now offers a power-sliding rear window across a broader range of trim levels. Marsh Gray and Orange Fury Metallic Tri-Coat are new exterior paint colors for 2026, and Eruption Green and Desert Sand are no longer offered. Pricing for the 2026 Maverick starts at $29,990, including the $1,845 destination charge.
Trucks have historically been very thirsty, but the 2026 Ford Maverick is a compact pickup that takes a more frugal approach to fuel economy. It comes standard with a hybrid powertrain that delivers up to 38 mpg combined. That puts it well ahead of its most direct rival, the compact Hyundai Santa Cruz, which returns up to 25 mpg combined. The Maverick is also significantly more fuel efficient than midsize trucks such as the GMC Canyon and the Honda Ridgeline.
The Maverick can tow up to 4,000 pounds. That is enough for a small boat or trailer, but it is a significantly lower tow rating than you would get with some midsize pickups. For example, the Canyon can pull up to 7,700 pounds. The car-like Honda Ridgeline, like the Maverick, has a unibody construction and boasts a 5,000-pound tow rating.
Maverick buyers can choose from five main trims: XL, XLT, Lobo, Lariat, and Tremor. The base XL rides on 17-inch wheels and includes LED headlights and rear privacy glass. The cabin features single-zone manual air conditioning and height-adjustable front seats with cloth upholstery. Standard tech amenities include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring, voice recognition, a 13.2-inch center display, and a six-speaker stereo.
Higher trims add features such as fog lamps, LED cargo box lighting, and larger wheels. They also upgrade the cabin with amenities such as ambient lighting, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel.
The Maverick's standard hybrid powertrain produces 191 horsepower and 155 pound-feet of torque. The optional turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 250 hp and 277 pound-feet of torque. This Ford truck comes standard with FWD, and all-wheel drive (AWD) is available for improved traction on gravel and mud.
Standard driver aids include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assistance, pedestrian detection, and automatic high-beam headlights. The options list includes rear parking sensors and blind spot warning.
The Ford Maverick competes with the Hyundai Santa Cruz in the compact truck segment. Both models have similar pricing; the Santa Cruz offers better warranty coverage, but the Maverick is more fuel efficient. You may also want to consider midsize trucks such as the Chevrolet Colorado and the GMC Canyon. Though they are not as frugal at the gas pump as the Maverick, they offer superior towing capability. The Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma are other midsize options.
Ford is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of January 24, 2026, but it may have changed since then. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker's website or your local dealership.
Warren Clarke is an automotive journalist specializing in vehicle reviews and consumer advice. In addition to JD Power, he has written for outlets including Credit Karma, Capital One Auto Navigator, U.S. News and World Report, and Car and Driver.
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