The Ford Maverick is still making a name for itself as one of the best compact pickups you can buy. It even just secured MotorTrend's "Truck of the Year" award for 2026, which proves Ford hit the mark. Since the 2025 model year got a decent glow-up, '26 is all about making specific tweaks to trims. Here's how features compare on the 2026 vs. the 2025 Maverick.
Key Takeaways:
- Following 2025's overhaul, the 2026 Maverick introduces changes across the trim levels.
- As of this early 2026 writing, you can expect the new trucks to be in our showroom by late winter or early spring.
- The Mav celebrates its win as MotorTrend's "Truck of the Year" for 2026.
What's New for the Maverick's 2026 Model Year?
For 2026, Ford adds a few tweaks to the Ford Ranger with new colors, Orange Fury Metallic Tri-Coat, and Marsh Gray, while retiring Desert Sand and Eruption Green. Interested in the XL or XLT trims? You're in luck--Ford gives them drivetrain flexibility now. The hybrid with front-wheel drive is still the standard, but you can swap to the turbocharged four-cylinder with FWD for no extra cost, or pay a little more to add AWD to the turbo engine.
There are some equipment changes to note, too. Ford removed the wireless charging pad from every trim level. It also changed the spare tire policy; full-size spares are now an option for the XL, XLT, Lobo, and Lariat (specifically on the turbo or hybrid AWD models), while a tire inflator and sealant kit comes standard. The Tremor is the only one that keeps the spare (due to its off-roading capabilities)
Inside, the XLT's armrest now features attachable cupholders rather than a built-in console, and the XLT Luxury package now has a four-way manual passenger seat instead of a six-way power-adjustable one. Blue Ford badges are now also standard everywhere since Ford removed the black option. Connectivity services now include a free year with a seven-year plan available for one-time purchase.
What Changes Were Made to the 2025 Ford Maverick?
This was the year we got the Lobo, the street-focused trim with a lowered sport suspension, 19-inch rally wheels, and beefed-up brakes. Every Maverick also got a visual facelift with darker headlight lenses and a new look for the grille and bumpers.
Tech took a big leap into the future with the Mav, thanks to a larger 13.2-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone connectivity. Safety systems also became standard, with every truck gaining lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams.
Model Year Changes
| 2026 Ford Maverick |
2025 Ford Maverick |
| Paint swap: Orange Fury and Marsh Gray replace outgoing colors Eruption Green and Desert Sand |
Lobo model launches with lowered stance, sports suspension |
| XL and XLT buyers can choose turbo over hybrid FWD for free |
Escape-inspired grille and bumper redesign added across the board |
| Wireless charging pad dropped from every trim level |
Added standard 13.2-inch infotainment screen |
How Many Powertrains are offered for the 2026 Ford Maverick?
You still have two great ways to power your Maverick--the base 2.5-liter hybrid gives you 191 horsepower and pairs with a CVT (AWD is also available). The 2.0-liter turbo cranks it up to 250 horsepower through an eight-speed automatic and standard AWD. The Lobo is the standout here, featuring its own seven-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters for a much sportier driving experience.
Are you Ready to Claim Your New 2026 Maverick?
While the 2026 models haven't officially landed yet, we're expecting them to show up any day now. Contact us to be added to the list for a test drive, or visit us today at Alan Jay Ford Wauchula. You can be sure that Alan Jay Way will be top of mind when you purchase from us, meaning you will get transparent pricing.