Maverick Model Research

2025 Ford Maverick vs the Competition

The 2025 Ford Maverick is a well-rounded compact truck that excels in technology, design, and performance. This newest model year brings updated tech features and refreshed styling to meet the needs of today’s drivers. Power and efficiency are covered with two engine choices, including a fuel-saving hybrid option that balances strength with excellent mileage. The exterior has been redesigned with darker headlight housings, a bold new front fascia, and creative wheel options. Inside, drivers will find upgraded cabin details like the Smoke Truffle interior with bronze accents on the Lariat trim, as well as a larger 13.2-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ connectivity. Keep reading to see how the 2025 Ford Maverick surpasses the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz in performance, technology, and design.

Learn more below before stopping by George Kell Ford for a test drive. Whether you are looking for a new or quality pre-owned car in the Little Rock area, there is something for everyone here at George Kell Ford. We help all drivers from Tuckerman and Augusta to Batesville and McCrory find the right car at the right price for them. Take time also to browse all our latest specials to unlock additional savings today!

Starting MSRP $28,145

Ford Maverick Highlights

Performance

Turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine producing 238 horsepower or 2.5L hybrid powertrain with available all-wheel drive, towing capacity up to 4,000 lbs, new Lobo™ model with 7-speed automatic transmission, paddle shifters, and more.

Interior

New available Smoke Truffle theme with bronze accents, full-size second row with under-seat storage for additional space, available power moonroof and vinyl-trimmed Desert Brown seats, and ambient lighting.

Exterior

Updated exterior with darkened headlamp covers, redesigned front bumper and grille, new wheel, FlexBed® System with a 4.5-foot truck bed, 10 tie-downs, 110V outlet, and multi-position tailgate.

Technology

New 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, Ford SYNC® 4A system, and FordPass™ app with remote vehicle control and roadside assistance.

Safety

Standard Ford Co-Pilot 360® with Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Braking, Blind Spot Information System, and Lane Keeping Assist, available 360-degree camera system, and enhanced adaptive cruise control with lane-centering and speed-limit sign recognition.

2024 vs 2025 Ford Maverick

A new highlight for 2025 is the Maverick Lobo™, a performance-focused model featuring a 238-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with all-wheel drive and a seven-speed automatic transmission. The Lobo™ trim adds a lower ride height, upgraded brakes, striking 19-inch wheels, and distinctive interior color accents. Across the entire lineup, drivers will notice enhancements such as tinted headlight covers, a reworked grille and bumper, new wheel options, and the addition of a 13.2-inch infotainment system with wireless capability. Hybrid models also expand their utility, now offering optional all-wheel drive and a boosted towing capacity of up to 4,000 pounds. Standard driver-assistance technologies have also been added across all trims, making the Maverick safer and smarter than ever.

2025 Ford Maverick vs the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz

2025 Ford Maverick

Starting price: $28,145

Fuel Economy (MPG): 23 City / 30 Highway MPG

Built-In Bottle Openers: Available

FLEXBED™: Standard

2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz

Starting price: $28,750

Fuel Economy (MPG): 22 City / 26 Highway MPG

Built-In Bottle Openers: Not Available

FLEXBED™: Not Available

When stacked against the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz, the Maverick proves to be the smarter choice for drivers seeking efficiency, flexibility, and innovation in a compact truck. With a lower starting MSRP of $28,145, it’s the more afFordable option from the outset. The Maverick also takes the lead in fuel economy, earning 23 MPG city and 30 MPG highway versus the Santa Cruz’s 22/26 MPG. Clever touches like integrated bottle openers and the versatile FLEXBED™ system for better cargo organization further establish the Maverick’s edge. With its balance of practicality, smart design, and afFordability, the 2025 Ford Maverick is the clear winner.

White Ford Maverick pickup truck driving on a scenic country road.

Performance Comparison

Under the hood, the 2025 Ford Maverick offers two compelling engine options. The efficient 2.5L hybrid powertrain now includes available all-wheel drive, providing both excellent mileage and added traction. With the proper towing package, this hybrid setup can tow up to 4,000 pounds. For those seeking more muscle, the turbocharged four-cylinder engine generates 238 horsepower, outpacing the Hyundai Santa Cruz’s standard 191-horsepower engine. Unlike the Santa Cruz, the Maverick also benefits from a Continuously Variable Transmission for improved efficiency. With stronger fuel economy—23 MPG city and 30 MPG highway compared to 22/26 MPG in the Santa Cruz—the Maverick proves its superiority.

For drivers craving more excitement, the Maverick Lobo™ trim delivers. This sporty model comes standard with all-wheel drive and features a seven-speed automatic with paddle shifters, inspired by the European Ford Focus ST. It also boasts a lowered suspension, upgraded brakes, and rally-style 19-inch wheels for a more athletic look and responsive ride. Whether you value efficiency or spirited driving, the Maverick lineup stands above the competition.

Blue Ford Maverick shown from the rear while driving along a roadway.

Design Comparison

The 2025 Ford Maverick makes a bold impression with updated exterior styling and enhanced utility. Its practical FlexBed® system pairs with a 4.5-foot bed, offering flexible cargo options. Exterior updates include a redesigned bumper and grille, darkened headlights, and fresh wheel choices such as Steel Wheels, unavailable on the Hyundai Santa Cruz. Added utility comes from features like an available Pickup Bed Tonneau Cover, Bed Liner, up to 10 tie-downs, a 110V outlet, and a versatile multi-position tailgate—giving the Maverick a clear edge for work and play.

Inside, the Maverick elevates comfort and personalization with stylish new trim options, including the Smoke Truffle theme with bronze accents on the Lariat. A roomy second row with under-seat storage, optional Desert Brown vinyl-trimmed seats, an available power moonroof, and upgraded ambient lighting enhance both function and design. With superior cargo space compared to the Hyundai Santa Cruz, the Maverick’s cabin is tailored for practicality and comfort.

Driver interacting with the Ford Maverick infotainment touchscreen and digital dashboard.

Technology Comparison

Technology and safety are at the forefront of the 2025 Ford Maverick. The upgraded 13.2-inch infotainment system replaces the previous 8-inch screen, significantly improving usability while offering wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. Powered by SYNC® 4A, the system keeps essential features at your fingertips, while the FordPass™ app extends convenience with remote access and support. A built-in WiFi Hotspot also comes standard, something the Hyundai Santa Cruz doesn’t offer.

In terms of safety, the Maverick equips every model with Ford Co-Pilot 360® driver-assist technology. Key features include Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, a Rear View Camera, Blind Spot Information System, and Lane Keeping Assist. Higher trims like the Lariat and Tremor expand this suite with a 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control with lane centering, and road sign recognition. Standard Rear Parking Aid and available Cross-Traffic Alert—features not found on the Santa Cruz—further solidify the Maverick’s safety advantage. Together, these upgrades make the 2025 Maverick not only smarter but safer than its rival.

Ford Maverick Trim Options

2025 Ford Maverick XL

XL

Starting MSRP $28,145

  • 2.5L Hybrid Engine
  • 13.2-inch Center Touchscreen with SYNC® 427
  • FLEXBED® Storage System
  • Ford Co-Pilot360® Driver-Assist Technologies
2025 Ford Maverick XLT

XLT

Starting MSRP $30,645

  • Intelligent Access w/ Push-Button Start
  • 2K Trailer Hitch Receiver w/ 4-Pin Connector
  • 17-inch Painted Aluminum Wheels
  • Available FX4® Off-Road Package
2025 Ford Maverick Lobo

Lobo™

Starting MSRP $35,930

  • 2.0L EcoBoost® Engine
  • 7-Speed Quick Shift Transmission w/ Paddle Shifters
  • Torque Vectoring Capable Twin Clutch Rear Drive Unit
  • Performance Tuned Steering and Suspension
2025 Ford Maverick Lariat

Lariat

Starting MSRP $38,445

  • 360-Degree Camera
  • Heated Seats, Sideview Mirrors, and Steering Wheel
  • Pro Trailer Backup Assist™
  • Wireless Charging Pad
2025 Ford Maverick TREMOR

TREMOR

Starting MSRP $40,995

  • Advanced 4WD w/ Twin Clutch Rear Drive Unit
  • Rear Drive Unit Lock
  • Off-Road Tuned Suspension w/ Unique Springs and Shocks
  • Skid Plates

Ford Maverick FAQs

How do the 2025 Ford Maverick and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz compare in terms of price?

The new Ford Maverick starts at an MSRP of $28,145, which is slightly more cost-effective than the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz ($28,750).

Which truck offers better fuel economy, the 2025 Ford Maverick or the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz?

The 2025 Ford Maverick leads with an EPA-estimated 23 MPG city and 30 MPG highway, compared to the 22 city / 26 highway MPG achieved by the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz. If fuel efficiency is important to you, especially for daily driving or long commutes, the Maverick offers a clear advantage.

Do both the 2025 Ford Maverick and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz offer a hybrid option?

Only the 2025 Ford Maverick offers a hybrid powertrain. Its 2.5L hybrid engine with available all-wheel drive delivers exceptional fuel economy and up to 4,000 pounds of towing capacity when equipped with the towing package. The Hyundai Santa Cruz does not offer a hybrid variant at all.

Which truck has more innovative cargo features, the 2025 Ford Maverick or the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz?

The Maverick features the Ford-exclusive FLEXBED™ system, which comes standard and allows for versatile cargo organization with multiple tie-downs, storage slots, and accessory options. The Hyundai Santa Cruz lacks a comparable system. The Maverick also includes available built-in bottle openers—a fun, functional detail not found in the Santa Cruz.

How do the 2025 Ford Maverick and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz compare in terms of technology?

The Maverick is equipped with a new 13.2-inch touchscreen powered by SYNC® 4A, offering wireless Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and a built-in WiFi Hotspot—a feature not offered by the Santa Cruz. Additionally, the FordPass™ app provides remote access to your vehicle and 24/7 roadside assistance.

How do the 2025 Ford Maverick and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz compare in terms of safety?

The Ford Co-Pilot360® safety suite comes standard on the 2025 Maverick, offering key features like Pre-Collision Assist, Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert, Rear Parking Aid, and Lane Keeping Assist. While the Hyundai Santa Cruz includes some safety features, it lacks standard Rear Parking Aid and does not offer Cross-Traffic Alert or the same level of adaptive technology found on upper Maverick trims.

How do the 2025 Ford Maverick and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz compare in terms of interior design and comfort?

The 2025 Ford Maverick cabin is both stylish and functional, offering upgraded materials like vinyl-trimmed Desert Brown seats, available ambient lighting, and a unique Smoke Truffle interior theme with bronze accents on higher trims. It also includes clever touches like under-seat storage and an optional power moonroof—comforts that give it an edge over the Hyundai Santa Cruz.

Is there a performance-focused Ford Maverick model?

Yes! The new Maverick Lobo™ trim is designed for sportier driving. It features standard AWD, a 7-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, a lowered suspension, upgraded brakes, and unique 19-inch rally-style wheels. The Santa Cruz does not offer a performance-focused trim that rivals the Lobo model’s engaging driving dynamics.

George Kell Ford

3710 South Van Dyke Road, Newport, AR 72112

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