Which is more your speed, the 2024 Ford Maverick or the 2024 Ford Ranger? Our comparison guide is here to help you figure out which of Ford’s popular trucks has the power, strength, and features your daily drive requires.
Key Takeaways
- The compact Maverick is spacious and comfortable, but the midsize Ranger offers a slightly longer list of luxury features and a bigger truck bed.
- For maximum power and off-roading prowess, the 2024 Ford Ranger should be your first choice.
- Both trucks will impress you with their towing and hauling capabilities, but the Ranger can manage both a bigger trailer and heavier payloads.
- Either of the Maverick’s engine options will help you achieve better fuel economy than the Ranger can manage.
Interior Space & Comfort
Inside, the compact Maverick and midsize Ranger offer a surprisingly similar amount of passenger space. Both trucks come standard with a five-passenger crew cabin, but no other cabin options are available. The Maverick features a 4.5-foot bed, while the Ranger has a 5.0-foot bed.
The Maverick and Ranger also offer the same three trim models — XL, XLT, and Lariat — as well as many of the same features. However, the Ranger comes with more standard features, including the SYNC 4 infotainment system. While the Maverick is available with SYNC 3, this infotainment technology is only available for the top-trim Lariat.
The Ranger is available with other upgrades that aren’t available for the Maverick, such as its 12-inch gauge cluster or exterior Zone Lighting system. On the other hand, these trucks have plenty of options in common, including leather upholstery and heated front seats.
Sporty Power
For drivers who crave maximum speed, the redesigned Ranger has major appeal. This new truck introduces a 315-horsepower turbo V6 engine that’s ready for a fun-loving drive. Better still, the all-new Ranger Raptor model delivers high-speed off-road capabilities, thanks in part to its exclusive 405-horsepower engine.
The Ranger trim model you select will determine which Ranger engine you’ll enjoy:
- XL: 2.3L EcoBoost inline four-cylinder engine (270 hp, 310 lb-ft)
- XLT, Lariat: 2.7 EcoBoost V6 (315 hp, 400 lb-ft)
- Raptor: 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (405 hp, 430 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear- wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive
Although the compact Maverick isn’t quite as powerful as its midsize brethren, it delivers plenty of spunk with its standard 250-horsepower engine. To enhance fuel economy, the Maverick is also available with a thrifty hybrid powertrain!
Here’s a closer look at the Maverick’s engine options:
- Standard turbo 2.0L four-cylinder engine (250 hp, 277 lb-ft) and eight-speed automatic transmission
- Optional 2.5L four-cylinder hybrid powertrain (191 hp, 277 lb-ft) and continuously variable transmission
- Front-wheel drive
- Optional all-wheel drive (2.0L engine only)
Towing & Hauling Capacity
Got trailers to tow and major payloads to haul? Compared to the Maverick, the Ranger is the stronger option. Properly equipped, Ford’s midsize truck can tow max loads of 7,500 pounds. Payloads also vary according to powertrain and equipment, but they reach up to 1,805 pounds.
The Maverick, meanwhile, is small but mighty. With the base turbocharged engine and the proper equipment, Ford’s compact truck can tow max loads of 4,000 pounds. Hybrid Mavericks can tow max loads of 2,000 pounds. Every edition of this truck can haul payloads weighing up to 1,500 pounds, making it a great choice for anyone with gear-heavy hobbies.
Fuel Economy
As you might’ve guessed, the hybrid Maverick is the most efficient option! With its optional hybrid powertrain, the 2024 Maverick earns up to 37 mpg combined. That’s pretty incredible fuel economy for such a capable truck.
Here’s a look at the max EPA ratings for each of the Maverick’s powertrain options:
- Hybrid: 37 mpg combined (42 city/33 highway)
- 2.0L engine: 26 mpg combined (23 city/30 highway)
- Tremor: 21 mpg combined (20 city/24 highway)
Although the 2024 Ranger isn’t nearly as efficient, this midsize truck combines incredible power with reasonable fuel economy. The EPA has yet to rate the Ranger’s new 2.7-liter turbocharged V6. But here’s a look at the highest ratings for each of the other engine options:
- 2.3L engine: 22 mpg combined (21 city/25 highway)
- Raptor: 17 mpg combined (16 city/18 highway)
Note that EPA ratings will drop slightly if you decide to add all-wheel drive/four-wheel drive to your truck! (Not including the Ranger Raptor, which is only available with four-wheel drive.)
The Best Ford Truck for You
To combine strong performance with modern fuel economy, there’s nothing quite like the 2024 Ford Maverick, and not just because it’s currently the only compact truck in the segment! But if the Maverick’s capabilities won’t cut it for you, the 2024 Ford Ranger delivers extra power, stronger towing and hauling capabilities, and even a little extra luxury.