Ford Maverick Vs Explorer: The Battle Of The Blue Ovals

In the vast landscape of pickup trucks and SUVs, two titans stand tall, ready to conquer any terrain: the Ford Maverick and the Ford Explorer. Both vehicles boast impressive capabilities, modern amenities, and the legendary Ford badge. But which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the depths of the Ford Maverick vs Explorer debate, analyzing their key features, performance, and overall value to determine the ultimate winner.

Power and Performance: Muscle vs Efficiency

1. Engine Options:

• Ford Maverick: The Maverick offers two engine choices: a standard 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain that delivers 191 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque, and an optional 2.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine that generates 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.
• Ford Explorer: The Explorer lineup features three engine options: a standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine that produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, an available 3.3-liter hybrid powertrain that delivers 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque, and a potent 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine that unleashes 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.

2. Fuel Efficiency:

• Ford Maverick: With its hybrid powertrain, the Maverick shines in fuel efficiency, achieving an EPA-estimated 42 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The EcoBoost engine offers a respectable 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
• Ford Explorer: The Explorer’s fuel efficiency varies depending on the engine choice. The base 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine returns 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the hybrid powertrain delivers up to 27 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The powerful 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine offers a less efficient 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.

3. Towing and Payload Capacity:

• Ford Maverick: Despite its compact size, the Maverick can handle up to 2,000 pounds of payload and tow up to 4,000 pounds when properly equipped.
• Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers a more substantial towing capacity of up to 5,600 pounds and a payload capacity of up to 1,850 pounds.

Dimensions and Space: Size Matters

1. Exterior Dimensions:

• Ford Maverick: The Maverick measures 199.7 inches in length, 72.6 inches in width, and 68.7 inches in height, making it a compact and maneuverable pickup truck.
• Ford Explorer: The Explorer is significantly larger, with a length of 198.3 inches, a width of 78.9 inches, and a height of 68.6 inches, providing ample space for passengers and cargo.

2. Interior Space:

• Ford Maverick: The Maverick’s cabin offers seating for five, with comfortable legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The pickup bed measures 4.5 feet in length, providing ample space for tools, gear, or small cargo.
• Ford Explorer: The Explorer’s spacious interior can accommodate up to seven passengers, with three rows of seating. The cargo area behind the third row offers 18.2 cubic feet of space, expanding to 87.8 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down.

Features and Technology: Keeping You Connected

1. Infotainment Systems:

• Ford Maverick: The Maverick features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Ford’s SYNC 3 software, offering smartphone integration, navigation, and a premium audio system.
• Ford Explorer: The Explorer boasts a larger 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with the latest SYNC 4 software, providing enhanced connectivity, voice control, and a wide range of entertainment options.

2. Safety Features:

• Ford Maverick: The Maverick comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
• Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers an even more comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane centering assist, and a 360-degree camera system.

3. Convenience Features:

• Ford Maverick: The Maverick offers a range of convenience features, such as keyless entry, remote start, and a power tailgate.
• Ford Explorer: The Explorer adds to the convenience factor with features like a hands-free liftgate, a panoramic sunroof, and heated and ventilated front seats.

Price and Value: Bang for Your Buck

1. Starting Price:

• Ford Maverick: The Maverick has a starting price of $21,490 for the XL trim, making it an affordable option for budget-conscious buyers.
• Ford Explorer: The Explorer’s starting price is significantly higher, with the base XLT trim starting at $33,225.

2. Trim Levels and Options:

• Ford Maverick: The Maverick is available in three trim levels: XL, XLT, and Lariat. Each trim level offers a range of optional packages and features to customize the truck to your needs.
• Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers six trim levels: XLT, Limited, Timberline, ST, King Ranch, and Platinum. The higher trim levels add more luxury features and advanced technology.

3. Overall Value:

• Ford Maverick: With its affordable price tag, impressive fuel efficiency, and versatile features, the Maverick offers excellent value for money.
• Ford Explorer: The Explorer provides more space, power, and advanced features, but it comes at a higher price.

Wrap-Up: Declaring the Victor

After a thorough comparison of the Ford Maverick and the Ford Explorer, it’s evident that both vehicles have their own strengths and weaknesses. The Maverick excels in fuel efficiency, affordability, and maneuverability, making it an ideal choice for city dwellers and those on a budget. On the other hand, the Explorer offers more power, space, and advanced features, making it a better option for families and those who need a vehicle for towing and hauling. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Which vehicle has better fuel efficiency, the Maverick or the Explorer?

Answer: The Maverick has better fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 42 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway compared to the Explorer’s 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

2. Which vehicle has more towing and payload capacity, the Maverick or the Explorer?

Answer: The Explorer has more towing and payload capacity, with a towing capacity of up to 5,600 pounds and a payload capacity of up to 1,850 pounds, compared to the Maverick’s towing capacity of 4,000 pounds and payload capacity of 2,000 pounds.

3. Which vehicle has more interior space, the Maverick or the Explorer?

Answer: The Explorer has more interior space, with seating for up to seven passengers and a cargo area that expands to 87.8 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down, compared to the Maverick’s seating for five and a 4.5-foot pickup bed.