The Ford Maverick is proving it's the compact truck to beat, especially after taking home MotorTrend's 2026 "Truck of the Year" trophy. Because the 2025 model year brought a significant overhaul, Ford spent 2026 focusing on small but meaningful updates to the various trims. Here's what buyers should know about the 2026 vs 2025 Ford Maverick.
Key Takeaways
- Following the 2025 redesign, the 2026 version brings in targeted updates for each trim level.
- As of January 2026, we're anticipating these models to show up in the showroom by late winter or early spring.
- The 2026 Maverick is the reigning "Truck of the Year" according to MotorTrend.
New for the Maverick for 2026 vs. 2025
The 2026 Maverick sees a change in its styling options. Eruption Green and Desert Sand have been retired, replaced by Marsh Gray and Orange Fury Metallic Tri-Coat. Buyers interested in the XL or XLT trims now have more choices when it comes to power; the FWD hybrid is still standard, but you can swap to the FWD turbo engine at no extra cost. If you want All-Wheel Drive with that turbo, it's available for an additional fee.
Hardware-wise, the wireless charging pad is no longer included on any trim. Ford has also moved to a standard tire inflator and sealant kit for most of the lineup. However, if you're buying an XL, XLT, Lobo, or Lariat (specifically on turbo or hybrid AWD models), you can still add a full-size spare as an option. The Tremor remains the exception, keeping the spare tire as standard gear for off-roading.
Interior changes include a new armrest setup for the XLT that features attachable cupholders rather than a built-in console. In the XLT Luxury package, the passenger seat is now a four-way manual unit rather than the previous six-way power-adjustable version. You'll also notice blue Ford badges are the standard now across the board. Connectivity has also been updated; you get one year for free and the option to buy a seven-year plan as a one-time purchase.
The 2025 model year was a major milestone that introduced the street-performance Lobo trim, which featured a sport-tuned, lowered suspension and 19-inch wheels. This year, Ford updated the Mav's bumpers, grilles, and darkened headlight lenses. The interior got a 13.2-inch display and wireless connectivity. Plus, the car company made safety tech standard, including automatic high beams and lane-keeping assistance for all drivers.
Engine Options and Performance of the Ford Maverick
The Maverick continues to offer two distinct paths for power. The 2.5-liter hybrid gives you 191 horsepower and uses a CVT, with AWD being an available upgrade. The more powerful 2.0-liter turbo engine provides 250 horsepower and comes with standard AWD and an eight-speed automatic. The Lobo stands on its own seven-speed automatic and steering-wheel paddle shifters for a sportier feel.
Powertrain Features
| 2026 Ford Maverick |
2025 Ford Maverick |
| 2.5-liter hybrid with 191 hp and CVT |
2.5-liter hybrid with 191 hp and CVT |
| Available AWD with hybrid |
Available AWD with hybrid |
| 2.0-liter turbo engine with 250 hp and 8-speed automatic |
2.0-liter turbo engine with 250 hp and 8-speed automatic |
| Lobo trim adds 7-speed automatic and paddle shifters |
Lobo trim adds 7-speed automatic and paddle shifters |
Reserve Your Ford Maverick Today!
While the 2026 models are expected to arrive shortly, you don't have to wait to see what makes this truck great. Contact us to reserve a test drive for the new arrivals, or come check out the 2025 models we have in stock at Jarret-Gordon in Winter Haven today!