Ford Maverick vs. Ranger: The Differences Are Simpler Than You Think

Alex Healey
· 3 min read
If you want to join the truck party but are looking for something a little less rugged, you may be tempted by the new
Ford
Maverick. Having already
impressed the critics
, this compact truck promises to bridge the gap between durable pickup and comfortable SUV.
But the Maverick is the only smaller truck in Ford’s lineup, the Ranger is another smaller truck that offers plenty of capability. Read on to learn more about the 2022 Ford Maverick, and see how it compares to a more traditional truck—the 2022 Ford Ranger.
The Maverick and Ranger are Ford’s smallest trucks.

The Ford Maverick vs. Ranger, two trucks for two different types of people

Cars.com
explains that the Maverick is not your typical compact truck. One obvious difference is its unibody construction, versus the body-on-frame used by other trucks, including the 2022 Ford Ranger.
It’s also more fuel efficient than any other truck on the market. In fact, the 2022 Maverick has better fuel economy than some sedans, getting 40 mpg in the city.
Despite the light frame and lower gas consumption, the Maverick is still a capable vehicle, boasting a maximum payload capacity of 1,500 pounds on a 4.5 ft. bed. For comparison, the Ranger has a longer (5 ft.) bed, and a maximum payload capacity of 1,860 pounds.
While both the 2022 Maverick and Ranger have similar ground clearance, the Maverick sits lower on its frame. This makes for markedly different driving experiences, with Maverick’s seating position more like an SUV than a pickup.
While you won’t mistake a Maverick for a Ranger as it drives by, the interior of these two trucks is where you’ll see the most difference. The Maverick has a more modern style—again more akin to an SUV than a truck—compared with the traditional, functional interior found in the Ranger.
To summarize, the Ranger is beefier than the Maverick. It feels like a work vehicle with a few modern conveniences thrown in. The Maverick is the opposite, and feels like a modern SUV dressed in work overalls!
Let Jerry find your price in only 45 seconds
No spam · No long forms · No fees
Find insurance savings

Which truck is better? It depends what you need

MORE: Ordered a Ford Maverick? FWD Won't Be Available
Whether you choose a 2022 Ford Maverick, or a more traditional pickup truck like the Ranger, really depends on personal preference and how you intend to use the truck.
If you’re planning on putting your new truck to work then the Ranger is the right choice. It has a 7,500-pound maximum towing capacity, significantly more than the Maverick’s 2,000-pound limit. Its bed and cargo box are bigger too.
On the other hand, if you live in an urban area and are looking for an everyday car to use with the family, the Maverick is an excellent choice. It offers a car-like ride, a nicer cabin, and more comfort for backseat passengers.
Truthfully, the Maverick is more of a crossover than an actual pickup. It can’t replicate the toughness of larger trucks, but it is a very capable vehicle, and should have more mass appeal than the Ranger.

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings