Which truck has what you need in a daily driver, the 2023 Ford Maverick or the Honda Ridgeline? Our comparison guide is here to help you get your facts straight.
Key Takeaways
- The 2023 Maverick (starting at $22,595) is a much better deal than the 2023 Ridgeline (starting at $38,800).
- Thanks to its standard hybrid powertrain, the Maverick earns much better EPA ratings than the Ridgeline.
- For a little extra towing muscle, choose the Ridgeline.
- Both trucks will impress you with their available comfort and tech features, though the Maverick helps you get more bang for your buck with its lower prices.
Friendly Price Tag: 2023 Ford Maverick
With an MSRP of $22,595, the compact 2023 Maverick gives you a stellar deal on a brand new truck. The midsize 2023 Ridgeline, on the other hand, is significantly more expensive, starting at $38,800.
Thriftiest Ride: 2023 Ford Maverick
If you’re looking to lower your costs at the pump, that’s one of the best reasons to choose Ford’s new compact truck. With its standard hybrid powertrain, this little pickup earns up to 37 mpg combined (40 city/33 highway). The optional turbocharged four-cylinder engine also gives you a good balance of power and efficiency, earning up to 25 mpg combined (23/30 mpg).
Maverick shoppers can choose between two powertrains:
- Standard 2.5L four-cylinder hybrid engine (191 horsepower, 155 lb-ft of torque) and continuously variable transmission
- Optional turbo 2.0L four-cylinder engine (250 hp, 277 lb-ft) and eight-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive
- Optional all-wheel drive (2.0L engine only)
Meanwhile, since every Ridgeline comes with the same powertrain, every trim model has the same EPA ratings: 21 mpg combined(18 city/24 highway). That’s not even close to what the Maverick can deliver!
Every Ridgeline comes with the same powertrain:
- 3.6L V6 (280 horsepower, 262 lb-ft of torque)
- Nine-speed automatic transmission
- All-wheel drive
Max Towing: 2023 Honda Ridgeline
While the Maverick is the thriftier option, the Ridgeline can help you tow and haul slightly more weight. Properly equipped, one of these midsize trucks can tow up to 5,000 pounds! Payloads reach 1,583 pounds.
The Maverick might be the more compact option, but it’s still plenty capable. With the available turbo four-cylinder engine and the tow package, these Ford trucks can tow up to 4,000 pounds! Tow ratings reach 2,000 pounds with the standard hybrid powertrain. And either powertrain can help the Maverick haul an incredible 1,500 pounds.
Creature Comforts: It’s (Practically) a Tie
When you consider the Ridgeline’s much steeper price, you might think that it gives you a lot more comfort features for your money. But that’s not especially true! Both of these trucks treat you to lots of standard features, including LED headlights, an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, and smartphone connectivity via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Maverick comes standard with forward collision mitigation to help you avoid a head-on crash. And the Ridgeline adds to this technology with a few extra safety aids, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. (These features are optional for the Maverick.)
And both trucks offer a range of trim models, allowing you to upgrade your ride according to how much you want to spend. Available features include a leather-wrapped steering wheel and heated front seats!
The Best Truck for You
The 2023 Ridgeline might be able to tow a slightly bigger trailer, but it’s the 2023 Maverick that really delivers the goods. That’s especially true if you’re interested in a small truck that can manage heavy equipment but still deliver excellent fuel economy! Choose Ford’s unique compact pickup for a very modern take on trucking.