When it comes to compact and fuel-efficient pickup trucks, the 2026 Ford Maverick stands out from the crowd as the latest MotorTrend Truck of the Year. Loaded with innovative features that improve efficiency, ride quality, infotainment, and towing with an affordable price tag, the Ford Maverick has established itself as a fan favorite in the segment. Learn more about what sets the Ford Maverick apart from its competition with this list of 5 Favorite Features of the 2026 Ford Maverick.
Ford Maverick Named 2026 MotorTrend Truck of the Year
Why was the Ford Maverick named the 2026 MotorTrend Truck of the Year? The automotive award is due to a number of factors that have made the Ford Maverick a fun, affordable, and efficient pickup truck option for Tampa-area drivers. Highlight features outlined by MotorTrend include a spacious, well-appointed interior and innovative trailering features.
“Over two weeks of intensive truck testing, the Ford quickly distinguished itself amid our field of two new and three revised contenders against our six key criteria: performance of intended function, engineering excellence, advancement in design, efficiency, value, and safety.”
– MotorTrend
Here is a closer look at a few of our favorite Ford Maverick features:
Hybrid Fuel Economy
Are you looking for a pickup truck that won’t break the bank at the fuel pump? The 2026 Ford Maverick will check all the boxes with a standard 191-horsepower 2.5-liter Hybrid four-cylinder engine that when paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission will achieve 42 mpg in the city. With the available all-wheel drive, the Ford Maverick improves performance without sacrificing fuel efficiency.
Pro Trailer Hitch Assist
With the ability to tow up to 4,000 pounds of cargo with the 4K Tow Package, the Ford Maverick is a capable compact pickup truck for Tampa drivers. Towing is made simpler and safer with the innovative Pro Trailer Hitch Assist feature. This feature employs the rear camera and radar to help you guide your hitch to your trailer with ease.
Ford FLEXBED® System
When you are on the road and transporting cargo in the bed of the Ford Maverick, securing your cargo is critical. The Ford Maverick’s FLEXBED® System provides drivers with multiple in-bed tie-downs, a multi-position tailgate, and available built-in 12- and 110-volt outlets with Ford Pro Power Onboard technology that allow you to power your tools or other electronics from the bed of your truck.
13.2-Inch Ford SYNC® 4 Infotainment System
Infotainment is a key feature of the 2026 Ford Maverick that families will love. The standard 13.2-inch Ford SYNC® 4 touchscreen infotainment system provides nearly limitless access to entertainment and information. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will keep you connected to your favorite music and media with easy access to navigation.
Maverick Lobo
Do you want to upgrade performance on the street? The Ford Maverick Lobo is modeled after 90’s street trucks and is powered by a 250-horsepower 2.0-liter EcoBoost® four-cylinder. To amp up power and performance, the Ford Maverick Lobo employs a performance-tuned Lobo Mode, torque vectoring handling with a twin-clutch rear drive unit, performance-tuned shocks, and enhanced engine cooling.
READ MORE: What’s New for the 2026 Ford Maverick?
Looking for an award-winning compact pickup truck? The 2026 Ford Maverick may be the perfect fit. This list of our 5 Favorite Features of the 2026 Ford Maverick may illustrate what has made the Ford Maverick the 2026 MotorTrend Truck of the Year. Apply for credit approval today to get behind the wheel of a brand-new Ford Maverick!