The Ford Maverick is a popular and prestigious truck among Ford aficionados. It hasn’t changed much since 2023, but it's got a price point that can’t be beat. Let’s look at how it stacks up against a formidable rival in the 2024 Toyota Tacoma, which has seen some much needed changes this year. Which one should you choose?
Key Takeaways:
- The Ford Maverick has not seen many changes since it was introduced in 2022.
- The Maverick’s formerly standard hybrid powertrain is now an upgrade in ‘24.
- The Maverick is one of the few pickups that is priced well under 30k (an unbelievable deal!) in its lower-level trims.
What Changes Are Seen For the 2024 Ford Maverick?
The Maverick first rolled off the assembly line and hit the streets in 2022. Since then, there haven't been many changes to its design. However, the hybrid powertrain offered as standard in 2023 is now a $1500 upgrade, with the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine now declared standard.
The Tacoma was badly in need of a full redesign and finally got one in ‘24. It has more trim levels and modern features, as well as an updated powertrain, but its hybrid trim is not out yet.
What Trim Levels are Offered For the 2024 Ford Maverick?
The starting MSRPs for 2024 Ford Maverick trim packages are a little higher than they were last year, but still a steal as the base models come in far less than 30k.
- XL: $23,815
- XLT: $26,315
- LARIAT: $34,85
In comparison, the Tacoma has double the trim levels, but they start about 32k and go up to 54k. If budget is a factor, the Maverick is an excellent choice!
What Engine Is Found Under the Hood of the 2024 Ford Maverick?
The Maverick’s Turbo 2.0L four-cylinder engine is a powerful machine, delivering 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Its 2.5L four-cylinder hybrid engine is just a little lighter in ponies, with 191 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque. The Maverick gets 26 mpg combined (23 city/30 highway) on gas and its hybrid earns 37 mpg combined (42 city/33 highway).
The Tacoma’s 228-hp turbo four delivers 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. There is said to be a hybrid on the horizon in ‘24, but it’s not here yet. Currently, the Tacoma gets 23 mpg combined (21 city/26 highway.)
How Much Can the 2024 Ford Maverick Tow?
If you frequently tow heavy loads, the Maverick may not be the truck for you. It can tow up 2,000-pounds; however, that can be pushed 4,000-pounds when properly outfitted. The Tacoma can tow up to 6,500 pounds.
Offroading in the Maverick is where it steals the show, thanks to Ford’s excellent Tremor configuration with locking rear differential and greater lift. Available in the Maverick’s higher trims, it guarantees better trail performance.
What Technology Is Found In the 2024 Ford Maverick?
The Maverick’s 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen system offers Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker sound system. Higher trims offer ambient lighting, two tone cloth or leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control. The Lariat features a Bang and Olufsen sound system with eight-speaker surround sound.
The Tacoma also has an 8.0-inch that can be upgraded comes standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A wireless charging pad is optional, as is a JBL stereo. For us, the Bang and Olufsen stereo featured in the Maverick Lariat is the superior system.
Is the Truck Bed of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma Bigger than the 2024 Maverick?
The bed of the 2024 Maverick is on the shorter end, at 4 1/2 feet, but can handle most jobs and includes an electrical outlet inside the bed with a 110-volt upgrade option. The bed on the Tacoma XtraCab is six-feet and consumers have the choice of a five- or six-foot bed on the Double Cab.
Should You Choose the 2024 Ford Maverick or the 2024 Toyota Tacoma?
You can’t go wrong with the reliable Tacoma, but the Maverick bells and whistles at such a low price make it the clear winner. Come by Karl Flammer Ford to experience it for yourself!