Which truck is more your style, the 2023 Ford Maverick or Ford Ranger? Is one of these pickups better than the other? Our comparison guide provides a close-up of Ford’s new compact truck, the Maverick, alongside its tried-and-true midsize truck, the Ranger.
Key Takeaways
- The 2023 Maverick is the less expensive truck, offering a lower MSRP than the 2023 Ranger.
- When it comes to power, the midsize Ranger is the stronger option, with greater towing and hauling capabilities to boot. However, the compact Maverick is the more efficient option, and it provides impressive capabilities for its size.
- Each truck is available as three trim models — XL, XLT, and Lariat — but feature availability varies between the Ranger and Maverick.
- Both trucks offer a variety of off-roading packages to help you explore the trail. With available four-wheel drive, the Ranger is a bit more adventurous.
MSRP
The 2023 Ford Maverick starts at $22,595, a very thrifty price for such an impressive compact pickup. The 2023 Ford Ranger, which is both bigger and stronger than the Maverick, has a slightly steeper MSRP, starting at $27,400.
Power & Performance
One of the greatest differences between the 2023 Ford Maverick and Ford Ranger is performance. The compact Maverick is geared more toward fuel economy, earning up to 37 mpg combined with its standard hybrid powertrain. But it’s still a very capable little truck! Properly equipped, hybrid Mavericks can tow up to 2,000 pounds and haul payloads of up to 1,500 pounds.
For more power and available all-wheel drive, choose the Maverick’s optional turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Properly equipped, compact trucks with this engine can tow max loads of up to 4,000 pounds. Max payloads don’t change, however.
The Maverick’s powertrain options:
- 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine (191 horsepower, 155 lb-ft of torque) and continuously variable transmission (CVT)
- Optional turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (250 hp, 277 lb-ft) and eight-speed automatic transmission
Every Ranger is available with the same engine, a hefty turbocharged four-cylinder engine. All trim models are available with four-wheel drive to enhance performance in low-traction environments. The Ranger is the right choice for drivers who want to tow a bigger boat, thanks to its max tow ratings of up to 7,500 pounds. Payloads reach 1,860 pounds, which means this midsize truck is also a better option for those who want to haul heavy equipment.
The Ranger’s powertrain options:
- Turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine (270 hp, 310 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive
- Optional four-wheel drive
Trim Models
Each of these Ford trucks is available as three trim models: the base XL, middling XLT, and stylish Lariat. However, the Maverick and Ranger offer slightly different features, depending on which trim model you select.
2023 Ford Maverick
The Maverick XL comes standard with an 8-inch central touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and forward collision warning. Comfort features include cloth seating, air conditioning, and power windows.
Upgrade to the XLT for a little extra panache, trading in the base steel wheels for 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels. Inside, this model features upgraded cloth upholstery and a rear-seat center armrest, complete with cupholders.
Finally, there’s the Lariat, which is a little more comfortable, with dual-zone automatic climate control, faux-leather upholstery and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. Extra tech features include rear-seat USB ports and an upgraded digital gauge cluster. This Maverick is the only trim model that's available with the optional SYNC 3 system.
2023 Ford Ranger
The entry-level Ranger is also pretty basic, with 16-inch steel wheels, a manually locking tailgate, and a four-speaker sound system. This truck also includes a forward collision mitigation to help you avoid a crash.
The XLT is a big upgrade. To start, it comes with the SYNC 3 infotainment system, with an 8-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. This truck also features niceties like 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels and dual-zone automatic climate control. Safety upgrades include blind-spot warning and lane-keeping assistance.
With the Ranger Lariat, things are a little more luxurious. Inside, you’ll find leather upholstery. Outside, it has LED headlights. The Lariat is also available with an impressive list of options, such as a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system and remote ignition.
Off-Road Features
With all-wheel drive, any Maverick is available with the FX4 Off-Road Package. This package transforms the Maverick into a very capable little truck, with all-terrain tires, skid plates, front tow hooks, and hill descent control. The Tremor Off-Road Package, available for the Maverick XLT and Lariat, adds to those features to create an increasingly rugged ride. This package includes off-road-tuned suspension with extra ground clearance, advanced four-wheel drive, and a locking rear differential, among other upgrades.
Although the compact Maverick can handle itself on the trail, the midsize Ranger is even more impressive. Instead of all-wheel drive, the Ranger is available with sturdier four-wheel drive. There are two basic off-road packages available, FX2 (for rear-wheel-drive Rangers) and FX4 (for four-wheel-drive Rangers). These include all-terrain tires and an off-road-tuned suspension. And the Ranger also offers its own Tremor Off-Road package, creating the ultimate trail performance. This package includes off-road-specific Fox shocks, a revised suspension with extra ground clearance, bigger all-terrain tires, and more!
Your Ford Truck
Choosing between these Ford trucks comes down to your personal priorities. If you’re looking for a small, more efficient truck that still delivers plenty of modern comfort and trucking capabilities, the 2023 Ford Maverick is your guy. If, on the other hand, you need extra muscle and greater off-roading potential, drive home in a 2023 Ford Ranger!