2023 Ford Maverick XLT

The new-in-2022 Ford Maverick quickly sold out for that model year and helped revive a moribund compact-pickup segment. Its popularity is no mystery—it's a no-frills, capable truck with an affordable price tag. Available only in a crew cab, the Maverick has 2 drivetrain options: the hybrid drivetrain on our test vehicle, rated at an excellent 37 mpg combined, and a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. All-wheel drive is available only with the turbo. Driving the Maverick isn’t what you’d call an exciting experience: There's no real driver engagement, vibrations from its noisy drivetrain can be felt throughout the cabin, and the ride quality is just so-so. The Maverick's cabin is spacious up front, and its bed is large enough to be useful. All-around visibility is good, and the HVAC system works well. However, the back seat is cramped, and getting in and out can be awkward. Interior materials feel cheap, and fit and finish leaves a lot to be desired. The Maverick also comes up short in tech and convenience features. For example, push-button start and automatic climate control are available only on the high-end Lariat trim. Worse still is the lack of advanced safety features. Forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking are standard, but blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and lane-keeping assistance are available only with the Co-Pilot360 package or on the Lariat edition.