I wasn’t exaggerating when I boldly described the 2023 Ford Maverick in a review as the Model T of the 21st century.

The original Model T put the United States on wheels more than a century ago. The Model T’s combination of affordability, utility and ruggedness made it unbeatable. The Maverick is doing the same, especially in the U.S. market where the average new vehicle transaction price is approaching $50,000.

The Model T was once the least expensive form of transportation. It was on par with riding a horse. But it was a lot easier and more dependable.

Fast forward 100 years, and we have the 2025 Ford Maverick. It’s the lowest-priced pickup truck in the United States.

But the price doesn’t mean the Maverick is just a bare-bones workhorse. As someone who drives a different vehicle every week, it takes a lot to leave a lasting impression. The Maverick does.

On the Road

The Maverick drives like an F-150, with a composed ride, a solid chassis and competent handling. It glides over rough pavement with minimal upset and maximum comfort. It’s whisper-quiet inside, with no squeaks or rattles.

Handling is particularly satisfying. This is where the unibody platform shines, with a low center of gravity, minimal body roll and car-like road manners.

The hybrid powertrain delivers 191 horsepower. It’s not much by truck standards, but the Maverick offers satisfying pep in city driving and adequate power on the highway. The truck had no problems traversing the Sierra Nevada on Interstate 80. It maintained speed and passed without issue. Merging into fast-moving traffic was a struggle. The Maverick is available with an optional 2.0-liter turbo four that makes 250 horsepower.

Interior

My XLT test model was equipped with the Luxury Package, which added upgrades like a larger 13.2-inch center touchscreen featuring Ford’s excellent SYNC 4 infotainment system. The audio system is punchy and clear, and controls for climate and media are integrated into the display with intuitive graphics and responsive feedback. It’s one of the best-executed digital interfaces in any vehicle at this price point.

Interior packaging is outstanding. There’s plenty of head room, shoulder room, knee room and leg room (even for this 6-foot-3 reviewer.) The back seat is tight, but if you move the front seats forward it’s fine for short trips.

Heated seats and a heated steering wheel add welcomed comfort, and the physical layout of the cabin is smart. Ergonomics are excellent with all controls exactly where expected and within easy reach.

Interior storage is impressive with plentiful cubbyholes, door pockets, a generously sized glovebox and a big center console. There’s also a storage tray under the back seat. Included are two dedicated phone platforms, one flat and one that props your phone up for ease of viewing a navigation app. The upper level Lariat and Tremor models add inductive charging. There’s even water bottle storage areas integrated into all 4-doors.

Ingress and egress is effortless, thanks to the Maverick’s ideal ride height and wide door openings (If only Ford could do the same for the 4-door Bronco.) It’s an important quality, particularly for those who enter and exit their trucks often. 

There are cost-saving measures in Ford’s entry-level pickup truck but they’re smartly done. Basic materials are rugged and utilitarian, not cheap. The textured plastics and durable cloth seats feel built to last.

One minor complaint in the overall exceptional package: the seat bottoms are short and need more thigh support.

The Lariat and Tremor trims have premium touches like auto-up windows and adaptive cruise control. The XLT with Luxury Package covers all the essentials; power everything, remote keyless entry, ample USB ports and 400W 110V AC outlets in the cab and bed.

Mid-Cycle Refresh

Meaningful updates for 2025 include; a refreshed more handsome front clip, easier-to-read instrumentation (even for the far-sighted), the above-mentioned SYNC 4 infotainment system with a larger display, and an available trailering package with a tow rating of 4,000 pounds. The reviewed Maverick was equipped with all-wheel drive, a new feature for 2025. The maximum payload rating is 1,500 pounds.

Economy

On a recent road trip from Northern Nevada to the Bay Area I averaged an impressive 39 miles per gallon. EPA estimated fuel economy is 42 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, segment-leading numbers.

Pricing

The 2025 Maverick XLT AWD has a base price of $28,895. My test Maverick was equipped with $6,370 in options including the $1,890 luxury package, and $745 for the 4K towing package. Total MSRP is $36,860 including destination.

Verdict

One hundred years after the Model T put America on wheels Ford Motor Company hasn’t forgotten its winning formula. The refreshed Ford Maverick looks sharp, has solid build quality, is comfortable, capable, efficient and affordable.

It’s the lowest priced and most fuel-efficient truck in the United States and has just the right amount of swagger. If I were in the market for a small truck, I wouldn’t hesitate. https://www.ford.com/