Differences Between Ford Ranger and Ford Maverick: A Full Guide

Automotive enthusiasts are in for a treat as we delve into the details of two exciting Ford models – the Ford Maverick and the Ford Ranger. Both sport the rugged charm typical of Ford, each offers distinctive features, unique capabilities, and appeal to different buyer segments.

The Maverick, newly introduced as a compact pickup truck, and the midsize Ranger, a seasoned player in Ford’s truck lineup, are worth a closer look. Let’s navigate the intricate contours of these two vehicles to better understand their differences and determine which truck may suit your lifestyle best.

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Differences Between Ford Ranger and Ford Maverick

Ford’s portfolio of trucks has always had a solid reputation, and the introduction of the Maverick only further adds to the variety and versatility of options available to buyers. Here’s a rundown of the key differences between the Ford Maverick and the Ford Ranger:

1.     Size and Dimensions

The Ford Ranger is classified as a midsize pickup, while the Maverick is a compact pickup. This makes the Ranger slightly larger in both length and width, providing more cargo space in the bed and a more spacious cabin. However, Maverick’s compact size might be a benefit for those needing to navigate narrow city streets and tight parking spaces.

Ford Ranger Lariat Crew Cab Pickup exterior shown.

2.     Powertrain

As of my knowledge cutoff in 2021, the Ranger comes with a 2.3L EcoBoost engine, delivering a robust 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. On the other hand, the Maverick offers a hybrid powertrain as standard, with a 2.5L full hybrid engine that gives 191 horsepower. There is also an optional 2.0L EcoBoost engine available.

3.     Towing and Payload

The Ranger, with its larger size and more powerful engine, offers greater towing and payload capacities. It’s designed for more heavy-duty tasks, while the Maverick is more suited for lighter duties.

4.     Fuel Efficiency

The Maverick, with its hybrid powertrain, is set to deliver superior fuel efficiency over the Ranger. This makes the Maverick a more eco-friendly and budget-conscious choice.

5.     Price

The Maverick has been introduced as the most affordable truck in Ford’s lineup, providing a budget-friendly option for those seeking the versatility of a pickup. The Ranger, while more expensive, offers additional power and capability for the price.

6.     Interior and Technology

Both vehicles come equipped with modern technology, including Ford’s infotainment system, and a range of driver-assist features. The Ranger may offer a few more upscale options due to its position in the lineup.

Ford Maverick XLT Crew Cab Pickup center console.

In essence, while both vehicles offer excellent performance and features, the Ford Maverick is aimed at consumers seeking a more compact, fuel-efficient pickup for daily driving and light utility work. In contrast, the Ford Ranger offers more power and capabilities for those who require more heavy-duty performance from their vehicle.

7.     Drivetrain

The Ranger, up until 2021, was available with both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD), offering versatility for those who need off-road capabilities. On the other hand, the Maverick comes standard with front-wheel drive (FWD), though all-wheel drive (AWD) is an option with the upgrade to the 2.0L EcoBoost engine.

8.     Transmission

In terms of transmission, the Ranger comes with a 10-speed automatic, providing smooth gear changes for various driving conditions. The Maverick, however, equips a continuously variable transmission (CVT) as standard with the hybrid engine and an 8-speed automatic with the 2.0L EcoBoost.

9.     Cabin and Bed Configuration

The Ranger comes with two cabin configurations: the SuperCab with a 6-foot bed and the SuperCrew with a 5-foot bed. The Maverick offers only one: a crew cab configuration with a 4.5-foot bed. This might be a significant factor for those needing extra bed space.

10.     Off-road Capabilities

For off-road enthusiasts, the Ranger offers an FX4 Off-Road Package that includes features like tuned off-road monotube shocks, all-terrain tires, and a terrain management system. The Maverick’s more urban-focused design doesn’t provide the same level of off-road readiness.

Ford Ranger XLT front tire shown.

11.     Design Aesthetics

Both the Maverick and Ranger carry Ford’s truck DNA, but their design philosophies are different. The Maverick sports a unibody construction, leading to a more crossover-like appearance, while the Ranger maintains the classic body-on-frame design, translating to a more traditional truck aesthetic.

12.     Safety Features

While both vehicles offer Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite of driver-assistance technologies, the details might vary. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the Ranger had available features like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. Given its newer design, the Maverick might incorporate even more advanced safety features.

In sum, these additional factors further differentiate the Ranger and Maverick. Your preference between the two would depend on your specific needs, whether it be fuel efficiency, price point, towing and payload capacity, or off-road prowess. Both vehicles are stellar additions to Ford’s lineup, each catering to a different segment of the market.

What Size Bed Is The Ford Maverick Compared To The Ranger?

The Ford Maverick comes standard with a 4.5-foot bed, this bed length aligns with its compact pickup design. The Ford Ranger, being a midsize pickup, provides more variability in bed size, coming in two configurations. With the SuperCab model, you get a 6-foot bed, while opting for the SuperCrew model will give you a 5-foot bed.

Ford Maverick vs Ford Ranger: Verdict

When it comes to choosing between the Ford Maverick and the Ford Ranger, the decision largely depends on your individual requirements and priorities.

If you’re in search of a truck that’s compact, efficient, and great for daily commuting while still offering a respectable amount of cargo space and towing capacity for weekend projects or adventures, the Ford Maverick may be your best bet. It’s hybrid powertrain and competitive pricing make it an enticing option for those wanting pickup utility without the typical size and fuel consumption of larger trucks.

On the other hand, if your needs involve heavier towing, more payload capacity, off-roading, or you just prefer a larger vehicle, the Ford Ranger should be your choice. Its more powerful engine, greater towing and payload capacities, and optional off-road package make it a versatile and robust truck for those who require more from their vehicle.

In essence, both the Maverick and Ranger are excellent vehicles. The right choice between them comes down to the specific needs and wants of the individual. The compact, efficient Maverick and the more robust, powerful Ranger both have distinct audiences. Evaluate your lifestyle, budget, and vehicle needs to choose the one that best suits you.

What Can We Expect In Terms Of Fuel Efficiency For These Two Trucks?

The Maverick’s hybrid powertrain is designed to deliver superior fuel efficiency compared to the Ranger, making the Maverick a more eco-friendly and budget-conscious choice for those who prioritize fuel economy.

Which Truck Has Better Off-Road Capabilities?

The Ranger is better equipped for off-road adventures, especially when equipped with the FX4 Off-Road Package that includes tuned off-road shocks, all-terrain tires, and a terrain management system. The Maverick, due to its urban-focused design and compact size, does not offer the same level of off-road readiness.

How Do The Base Prices Of The Ford Maverick And The Ford Ranger Compare, And What Could Justify These Differences?

The Maverick was positioned as Ford’s most affordable truck, while the Ranger carried a higher price tag. The price difference is due to various factors, including the Ranger’s larger size, more powerful engine, greater towing and payload capacity, and the potential for more upscale features and options.

What Specific Design Element Sets The Maverick Apart From Traditional Trucks Like The Ranger?

The Maverick uses unibody construction, a design commonly found in crossovers and passenger vehicles. This sets it apart from traditional trucks like the Ranger, which use a body-on-frame construction.

The unibody design offers benefits such as improved fuel efficiency, handling, and ride comfort, while the body-on-frame design typically provides more robustness and towing capacity.

How Do The Towing And Payload Capacities Of The Maverick And Ranger Compare?

The Ranger, with its larger size and more powerful engine, offers greater towing and payload capacities, making it suitable for heavier tasks. The Maverick, while not as capable as the Ranger in these areas, still offers respectable towing and payload capacities suitable for lighter duties and everyday use.

Conclusion

Family with dog in the car.

When deciding between the Ford Maverick and the Ford Ranger, the best choice largely depends on your individual needs and priorities. The Maverick, being a compact pickup with an available hybrid powertrain, is perfect for those seeking efficiency and urban-friendly size, while still providing the utility of a pickup.

The Ranger, as a midsize truck with greater power and towing capacity, offers more capability for those needing a robust vehicle for heavier tasks and off-road adventures. By evaluating your specific requirements, whether that’s fuel efficiency, size, towing capacity, or off-road prowess, you can find the truck that best suits your lifestyle in Ford’s versatile lineup.

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About Brock Rangel

Hi, I am Brock, and I am the lead editor/photographer for TheCarColony. I have been a mechanic for over 14 years now, and I am here to spread my car knowledge across the web!