Are You a Maverick? Ford Has the Perfect Truck for You

What exactly is a maverick? If you ask around, you’ll likely get a variety of answers, including the dictionary definition of a maverick, meaning an independent-minded person. If you ask a salesman at a Carmel Ford dealer, however, you’ll be given a different response. They’ll tell you why the Ford Maverick is the right truck for Carmel drivers: because Carmel drivers are a bit unorthodox, independent, and quite often freethinkers, and the Ford Maverick fits that bill to a tee. Allow us to explain.

From There to Here

Back in the 1970s, the “Maverick” label was used on a line of compact Ford cars, but after they were retired (the design was never something to write home about), the “Maverick” label was also dropped from anything Ford had in production, that is, until now. The 2022 Ford lineup includes a new pickup, one that proudly bears the “Maverick” label and for a good reason: it’s unique, a standout among pickups as a small, four-door, optional hybrid with such a splashy entrance and excellent performance that it has already won an Editor’s Choice Award from Car & Driver.

There’s a renewed interest in smaller trucks, as evidenced by the appearance of the Ford Maverick, as well as Hyundai’s answer to Ford, the Santa Cruz. We’ll be seeing other companies joining in before too long, lest they miss out on an opportunity to outsell a rival. We, however, believe the Ford Maverick stands alone at the top of the list with its well-received entrance into the fold and its unique offerings. 

If you have been looking for a small truck for work, DIY home projects, or just more room for camping gear, then you may want to take a peek at what the Maverick has in the way of space, ruggedness, and even eco-friendly options. This vehicle wasn’t built for the masses, but it is accommodating enough to suit plenty of drivers who want something that stands out without being an eyesore.

What’s Special About the Maverick?

The Maverick has been designed to look and perform like a bigger truck but is as easy to drive and operate as a smaller vehicle, making it a perfect pickup for those who want to try something new or those who want to downsize into something more manageable and still have enough power to haul around work equipment or a couple of fun toys. Massive pickups have started to become a thing of the past with gas prices rising and engines evolving to become more powerful. Instead of a gigantic, gas-guzzling hauler, we think the Maverick is a great option for those who don’t want to keep paying exorbitant prices every time they haul their boat out for a spin or want to take the camper somewhere for the weekend. 

It’s also unique because it is offered primarily as a hybrid, with all trim levels coming standard with this option, along with both a four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, with a continuously variable automatic transmission and front-wheel drive: though there is another option, the four-cylinder engine itself, with an eight-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive. The Maverick tests well with any engine option, able to rev up and get going quickly enough to please amateurs and enthusiasts alike.

It’s capable of handling a 1,500 lb payload, as well as towing 2,000 lbs, and that’s just the start. If you elect to get the turbocharged four-cylinder engine and want to invest in a towing package, you could be hauling up to 4,000 lbs, with the pickup bed itself being able to carry plenty of plywood or other building materials for those DIY projects at home, or the job you’re working this week. It also comes with a 12-volt power point and a 110-volt outlet for all your power tool needs.

It’s What’s on the Inside That Counts

Of course, the outside of the Maverick isn’t all that matters. The inside has to match the independent, free spirit of the outside. That’s why all Maverick trim levels come as a crew cab, with plenty of roomy seating for people, as well as lots of storage space for everyone’s snacks and drinks, tools, etc. There’s lots of room to stretch out and plenty of places to store your gear. 

Also standard are keyless entry, audio controls on the steering wheel, adjustable lumbar support for the driver and front-seat passenger, as well as an 8” infotainment screen, and an onboard WiFi hotspot. Go up a trim level or two, and you’ll also be able to enjoy things like ambient lighting and dual-zone automatic climate control, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, wireless smartphone charging, and more. While the standard options sound great all by themselves, the Maverick can become even more luxurious and transform into a restful haven for everyone inside.

With five roomy, comfortable seats available, you can fit enough people in for a work crew assignment, a day trip with the family, or a tailgate party with your friends. With the Maverick’s special seating design, your phones won’t fall between the seats, meaning you all can enjoy your own entertainment or share with those around you without fear of having to go digging for your electronics. This is one feature we wish was standard in all vehicles. 

Safety Features 

While some standard safety features are included in most vehicles, the available and optional safety extras vary from model to model, and the Maverick is no exception. Depending on what sort of safety features you’re interested in, you may want the base model, which comes with standard automated emergency braking and the available adaptive cruise control. Perhaps you’re more interested in the available lane departure warning with lane-keeping assistance.

Ford uses two platforms with the Maverick for safety features: the FordPass app and the Ford CoPilot360. The FordPass app puts resources in your hands for their rewards program, as well as assistance with roadside issues. This allows for peace of mind when driving in new places or more serious situations. There’s nothing like being able to call for help when you’re stuck in the middle of nowhere and the relief of knowing this service will always have your back. The CoPilot360 is a suite of in-vehicle features, such as those mentioned earlier that differ based on trim levels. Higher-end models can get you unique safety tools such as hill descent control and rear parking sensors. This vast selection of available safety options demonstrates how dedicated Ford is to protecting you and your passengers.

While safety features are perhaps not the most exciting part of a vehicle, you do want to be able to rest with the knowledge that your vehicle is safe not only for you and your travelers but those that will be around you, whether they are pedestrians or other drivers. The Ford Maverick is equipped to be a safe but fun vehicle that will protect you and yours and everyone else around your vehicle.

Are You Ready To Be a Maverick?

With its modern good looks, powerful system, and roomy interior, this all-American vehicle is ready to take you where you need to go, whether it’s work, a family event, or that road trip you’ve been planning since college. We like that it’s so versatile: you can trick it out or keep it sleek, upgrade it with every available technological feature, or keep it simple and let the world around you fade away until it’s just you and the Maverick, enjoying the open road together. So, are you ready to be a Maverick?