Since its announcement, the 2022 Ford Maverick has received a variety of praise. But no vehicle is perfect as seen by Consumer Reports’ first drive of this small truck. While generally, reviews of the Maverick have been positive, there were some notable areas where the small pickup truck is lacking. Two specifically may have a serious impact on whether buyers opt for this model or look elsewhere. 

What does Consumer Reports not like about the Ford Maverick?

There are multiple complaints that Consumer Reports had about the 2022 Ford Maverick. Two notable ones include a heavy tailgate and the lack of a rear defroster. For those who live in places that get winter weather, the lack of a defroster could be a major inconvenience. It isn’t even an option on the higher trims of the Maverick. Which is truly a confusing choice. When temperatures drop, window defrosters are key to quickly clearing ice and snow. And with the Ford Maverick, it looks like for now buyers will have to go without this feature.

Another area where the new Ford Maverick appears to fall short is its tailgate. Because the Maverick has a heavy tailgate with no assistance features, it can be difficult to use. Raising the tailgate with one hand may prove near impossible, which is inconvenient if your hands are full. It is worth mentioning that buyers of this small pickup truck can opt for an available assist strut, but they will have to get it from the parts department, as it isn’t available from the factory.

Is the new Maverick a good truck?

Despite some of its shortcomings, the Maverick still makes for a good small truck. Especially when its price is considered. With a starting MSRP of under $20,000, this Ford truck is fairly attainable. 

Additionally, the Maverick boasts the ability to tow up to 4,000 pounds when properly equipped and features an available turbocharged engine. Another attractive feature of this compact truck is the available all-wheel drive. With this feature, buyers can get a truly capable pickup truck. Even if the Maverick does have unibody construction, it does offer the capability for light off-road use.

Does Consumer Reports recommend this small truck?

Generally speaking, Consumer Reports does appear impressed with this small truck. It is a compact truck that has affordability and some sought-after features. Even if there are some complaints that can be leveled against it. 

If owners push back enough, we may eventually see a rear window defroster equipped to this truck. Additionally, an option for tailgate assist would likely be a popular one. Even if it added an additional cost or was only available to certain trim. But for now, the available strut upgrade from a dealership will have to do. 

The Ford Maverick may be a car-based truck, but it is still ready to handle some light truck work. Which makes it ideal for those who don’t need the capability of a full-size truck or are not interested in the new Ford Ranger. And its unibody construction comes with the perks of better handling and a more comfortable drive over body-on-frame trucks.