Ford, the builder of the world’s best-selling full-size pickup, the F-150, has gone small with its feisty Maverick compact pickup, adding improvements for 2024 and generating explosive first-quarter sales.

Launched in 2022, the Maverick saw significant changes and low costs that were heralded by buyers, leading to an 82% increase in sales in the first quarter of 2024 compared to last year.

All Mavericks are crew cabs and are the least expensive vehicles Ford builds, undercutting the base cost of every 2024 mid-size truck on the market, including its only similarly sized competitor, the compact Hyundai Santa Cruz crew cab.

We test-drove the top trim Lariat, above the base XL and XLT trims (there is also a hybrid trim), and experienced peppy performance, an ergonomic cabin, a versatile bed, and decent handling for a low price. It’s a solid winner for Ford.

The Maverick has garnered 2024 top awards from Kelley Blue Book, Car and Driver magazine, and Consumer Reports.

Major changes for 2024 included making the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine with an 8-speed automatic standard for all Maverick models and adding a standard Luxury Package for the Lariat, our test drive trim. That package included a wireless charger, top driving safety features with Ford Co-Pilot360 and Co-Pilot Assist.

The spray-in bedliner, illumination, multiple tie-down features, and a 400-watt inverter electric outlet for small power needs outfitted the truck bed with multiple functions. Our only options, costing $860, were floor liners and upgraded towing muscle from 2,000 to 4,000 pounds.

Built on a unibody platform, the same as the Ford Bronco Sport, and with an underbody spare tire, exterior changes for 2024 included new vehicle colors and standard black-capped Lariat side mirrors.

The 2.0-liter Lariat turbo engine exhibited quickness and was relatively quiet underway but loud upon acceleration. Driver safety aids were cutting-edge, including unique evasive steering assistance that activates when the collision mitigation system determines a crash is imminent.

Handling was average, with some lean in tight turns, but the short wheelbase helped negotiate turns more easily at slower speeds. Rear parking sensors helped us squeeze into spaces built for a sedan. All-wheel drive in any of the drive modes—tow/haul, slippery, eco, sport, and normal—delivered appropriate handling.

The tight suspension reacted to highway imperfections, causing some jounce to be felt, just like larger pickups. Aided by the truck’s light weight, mileage was excellent, exceeding the EPA’s 22 mpg city average—we experienced a higher 23.6 mpg average.

We found voice-activated navigation sketchy but eventually correct after repeated attempts. Inside, our Desert Brown trim seats were covered in ActiveX, a high-end synthetic that Ford says is easier to clean, more durable than leather, and comfortable for longer rides.

The interior has a simple, workman-like look, with ergonomically designed button controls, an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with phone apps, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and sharply clear B&O premium audio. The cabin is rife with storage, both small and large, including ample storage under the second-row seat and pouches on the front seat backs. There are small cubbies on the doors, dashboard, and center spine with several small areas for various-sized items. The second row loses some space to the truck bed but is comfortable for shorter trips.

The Maverick received four out of five stars overall in government crash tests, and Consumer Reports included the Maverick in its 2024 list of most reliable vehicles costing under $30,000. There are dozens of accessories to customize and personalize the Maverick, including a Tremor package for off-road enthusiasts comfortable with 8.3 inches of ground clearance.

LIKES: Price, mileage, cabin storage, sprightly performance, versatile bed.

DISLIKES: No complimentary maintenance, noisy upon acceleration, rear access, seating tight for taller adults.

BOTTOM LINE: Solid performance and cost make the Maverick a formidable competitor in the compact and mid-size pickup truck market.

FACT FILE

2024 Ford Maverick Lariat AWD Crew Cab

• Base price w/destination fee: $36,450 (as tested $37,330)
• Vehicle weight: 3,693 pounds
• Wheelbase: 121.1 inches
• Length: 199.7 inches
• Width: 72.6 inches without mirrors
• Engine: 2.0-liter I-4 EcoBoost turbo
• Horsepower: 250 hp @5,500 rpm
• Torque: 277 ft.-lbs. @ 3,000 rpm
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic
• EPA rating: 22 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
• Range: 16.5 gallons, premium
• Performance: 0-60 in 6 seconds