Briny Bergin

Written by Briny Bergin

Modified & Updated: 25 Feb 2025

38-facts-about-ford-maverick
Source: Edmunds.com

Ford Maverick has taken the automotive world by storm, blending compact design with impressive functionality. But what makes this truck so special? Ford Maverick is not just another vehicle; it’s a game-changer in the compact truck segment. This blog post dives into 38 fascinating facts about the Ford Maverick that you probably didn’t know. From its hybrid engine to its customizable features, this truck offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just curious, these facts will give you a deeper understanding of why the Ford Maverick stands out. Ready to learn more? Let’s get started!

Key Takeaways:

  • The Ford Maverick, a compact car introduced in the 1970s, was a hit with over 579,000 sold in its first year, paving the way for other popular Ford models like the Pinto and Mustang II.
  • After more than 40 years, Ford revived the Maverick nameplate for a new compact pickup truck, featuring a hybrid powertrain and modern technology, receiving praise for its affordability and fuel efficiency.
Table of Contents

The Birth of the Ford Maverick

The Ford Maverick has a rich history that dates back to the 1970s. Let's explore some fascinating facts about this iconic vehicle.

  1. 01

    The Ford Maverick was first introduced in 1969 as a compact car designed to compete with the likes of the Chevrolet Nova and the Volkswagen Beetle.

  2. 02

    Initially, the Maverick was available only as a two-door sedan, but a four-door version was added in 1971.

  3. 03

    The Maverick was marketed as an affordable and economical car, with a starting price of just $1,995.

  4. 04

    Ford sold over 579,000 Mavericks in its first year, making it one of the most successful new car launches in the company's history.

  5. 05

    The Maverick was built on the same platform as the Ford Falcon, another popular compact car from the 1960s.

Engine and Performance

The Maverick's engine and performance specs were designed to appeal to a wide range of drivers. Here are some key details.

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    The base engine for the Maverick was a 2.8-liter inline-six, producing 105 horsepower.

  2. 07

    A more powerful 3.3-liter inline-six engine, producing 120 horsepower, was also available.

  3. 08

    In 1971, Ford introduced a 302 cubic inch (4.9-liter) V8 engine option for the Maverick, which produced 210 horsepower.

  4. 09

    The Maverick's V8 engine option made it a popular choice among performance enthusiasts and hot rodders.

  5. 10

    The Maverick was available with either a three-speed manual transmission or a three-speed automatic transmission.

Design and Features

The Maverick's design and features were both practical and stylish, making it a popular choice among car buyers.

  1. 11

    The Maverick featured a simple, yet stylish design with a long hood and short rear deck.

  2. 12

    The interior of the Maverick was designed to be spacious and comfortable, with room for up to five passengers.

  3. 13

    The Maverick was available with a variety of optional features, including air conditioning, power steering, and a vinyl roof.

  4. 14

    In 1973, Ford introduced a luxury version of the Maverick called the "Maverick LDO" (Luxury Decor Option), which featured upgraded interior materials and trim.

  5. 15

    The Maverick was also available in a sporty "Grabber" trim, which featured bold graphics, a hood scoop, and sportier suspension tuning.

The Maverick's Impact and Legacy

The Ford Maverick left a lasting impact on the automotive industry and remains a beloved classic car today.

  1. 16

    The Maverick was one of the first cars to feature a "uni-body" construction, which combined the body and frame into a single unit for improved rigidity and safety.

  2. 17

    The Maverick was also one of the first cars to feature "crumple zones," designed to absorb impact energy in the event of a collision.

  3. 18

    The Maverick's success helped pave the way for other compact cars from Ford, including the Pinto and the Mustang II.

  4. 19

    The Maverick was produced in the United States until 1977, but it continued to be produced in other countries, including Brazil and Mexico, until the late 1980s.

  5. 20

    Today, the Maverick is a popular choice among classic car enthusiasts and collectors, with well-preserved examples fetching high prices at auctions.

The Return of the Maverick

In recent years, Ford has revived the Maverick nameplate for a new generation of drivers.

  1. 21

    In 2021, Ford introduced a new Maverick compact pickup truck, marking the return of the Maverick nameplate after more than 40 years.

  2. 22

    The new Maverick is built on the same platform as the Ford Escape and Bronco Sport, making it a versatile and capable vehicle.

  3. 23

    The new Maverick is available with a hybrid powertrain, making it the first hybrid pickup truck in Ford's lineup.

  4. 24

    The hybrid powertrain in the new Maverick combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a combined 191 horsepower.

  5. 25

    The new Maverick has an estimated fuel economy of 40 miles per gallon in the city, making it one of the most fuel-efficient pickup trucks on the market.

Modern Features and Technology

The new Maverick is packed with modern features and technology, making it a smart choice for today's drivers.

  1. 26

    The new Maverick comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

  2. 27

    The new Maverick is available with Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite of advanced driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.

  3. 28

    The new Maverick offers a variety of storage solutions, including a spacious bed with a built-in tailgate step and multiple tie-down points.

  4. 29

    The new Maverick is available with a variety of optional features, including a power moonroof, a premium audio system, and a wireless charging pad.

  5. 30

    The new Maverick is available in three trim levels: XL, XLT, and Lariat, each offering a unique combination of features and options.

The Maverick's Popularity and Reception

The new Maverick has been well-received by both critics and consumers, cementing its place in Ford's lineup.

  1. 31

    The new Maverick has received praise for its combination of affordability, versatility, and fuel efficiency.

  2. 32

    The new Maverick has been named a "Top Safety Pick" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

  3. 33

    The new Maverick has been recognized as one of the "Best New Cars for 2022" by Autotrader.

  4. 34

    The new Maverick has been praised for its comfortable and spacious interior, with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers.

  5. 35

    The new Maverick has been lauded for its smooth and responsive handling, making it a pleasure to drive both on and off the road.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Here are some fun and lesser-known facts about the Ford Maverick that you might find interesting.

  1. 36

    The Maverick was originally going to be called the "Falcon Maverick," but Ford decided to drop the "Falcon" name before the car's launch.

  2. 37

    The Maverick was featured in several movies and TV shows during the 1970s, including "Starsky & Hutch" and "The Rockford Files."

  3. 38

    The Maverick was also popular in the world of motorsports, with several racing teams using modified Mavericks in drag racing and road racing events.

Final Look at Ford Maverick Facts

The Ford Maverick packs a punch with its blend of innovation and practicality. From its hybrid engine to its affordable price, this truck is a game-changer. It’s not just about performance; the Maverick also shines with its customizable features and eco-friendly design. Whether you’re a city dweller or an outdoor enthusiast, the Maverick offers something for everyone. Its compact size makes it perfect for urban environments, while its towing capacity and durability cater to those who need a reliable workhorse. Plus, the tech-savvy interior ensures you stay connected on the go. With all these features, the Ford Maverick stands out as a versatile and dependable choice. Ready to make a statement on the road? The Maverick’s got you covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a Ford Maverick?
Well, let's dive right in! Ford Maverick is a compact pickup truck that made its grand entrance back in 2021. It's known for its versatility, fuel efficiency, and affordability. Not just your average truck, Maverick offers a unique blend of practicality and performance, making it a hit among folks who need a vehicle that can handle both daily chores and weekend adventures.
How does the Maverick stand out from other trucks?
Oh, where to start? For one, its size. Being a compact truck, Maverick is easier to maneuver and park in tight spots compared to its larger counterparts. Plus, it boasts a hybrid engine option, which is not something you see in every truck out there. This means better gas mileage and a smaller carbon footprint. And let's not forget its customizable FlexBed, which is pretty handy for all sorts of hauling needs.
Can you tell me more about the Maverick's performance?
Sure thing! Maverick comes with a standard hybrid powertrain that combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering a total of 191 horsepower. For those craving more power, there's an optional 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that pumps out 250 horsepower. Both options provide a smooth and responsive driving experience, whether you're cruising on the highway or navigating city streets.
What about the interior features?
Maverick's interior is surprisingly spacious and loaded with tech. Even the base model comes with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Higher trims add luxury touches like leather upholstery, heated seats, and a premium sound system. Plus, with plenty of storage compartments and a roomy back seat, Maverick makes sure you and your crew ride in comfort.
Is the Ford Maverick a good choice for families?
Absolutely! Its compact size doesn't compromise on safety or space. Maverick has received high marks for safety, offering features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The cabin is comfortable for kids and adults alike, making it a solid choice for family outings, road trips, or just running errands around town.
How does Maverick fare for off-road adventures?
Maverick might not be the first name that pops into your head when you think off-road, but it's no slouch in this department either. Opt for the all-wheel drive, and you'll find it capable of handling light off-road trails. For those who are more serious about hitting the dirt, the FX4 Off-Road package adds skid plates, all-terrain tires, and additional drive modes to tackle rougher terrain.
What's the price range for a Ford Maverick?
Maverick's affordability is one of its biggest draws. Starting at around $20,000 for the base model, it's one of the most budget-friendly trucks on the market. Even fully loaded, it stays under the $40,000 mark, making it a great value for anyone looking for a versatile and efficient truck without breaking the bank.

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