Compact Ford Maverick Believed to Arrive This Year

Ford may be over and done with the launches of big names in its lineup like the Bronco and Bronco Sport, but it doesn’t mean loyal fans no longer have anything to look forward to from the brand. Just a reminder: the Ford Maverick is yet to come.

The model, long rumored to be in the making, is expected to set a new trend for the American truck market. Where most manufacturers tend to go bigger, the Blue Oval is believed to be working on a compact pickup that will sit below the mid-size Ranger.

The Maverick will be Ford’s entry to the compact pickup segment, and insiders say it is nearing its arrival. While the automaker has not responded to reports of a possible 2021 debut for the model, the idea does not seem far-fetched, especially if recently leaked images are to be made as basis.

Instead of body-on-frame construction, the upcoming truck will likely share the same architecture as the Bronco Sport and Escape. It may also be offered as a four-door crew-cab pickup that comes with a bed based on previously spotted prototypes. Simply put, the new Ford truck could show a resemblance to the Honda Ridgeline pickup and Pilot SUV.

With its size smaller, the Maverick is expected to be cheaper than the mid-size pickup trucks it shares components with. Right now, the price estimate is at $26,000.

Powertrain options are still undetermined, but it may not be far from the turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine that delivers 181 horsepower on the base Escape and Bronco Sport. Could also be a more powerful turbocharged 2.0-liter that makes 245 horsepower. Too, a hybrid version is not out of the picture; however, at this point, everything is still up for Ford’s confirmation.

When the Maverick arrives later this year, it will be part of Ford’s 2022 model year lineup.