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In the world of compact pickup trucks, the 2022 Ford Maverick has certainly been dominating. It offers what many buyers have been looking for, affordability, practicality, and attractive design. This vehicle is even winning among non-truck buyers, with an estimated 70% of purchasers of the Maverick not being truck owners before. But with a starting price of around $20,000, the Maverick is certainly not a luxury truck. Just how basic is the 2022 Ford Maverick XL hybrid?

Why is the Ford Maverick truck so cheap?

Several key factors go into making the Maverick such a cheap truck, it is built on the same platform as the Ford Escape and Ford Bronco Sport. Because of this, Ford is able to save costs on reusing various components. Additionally, the interior uses fairly cheap materials, especially the XL hybrid model. So, do not go into the Maverick pickup truck expecting the type of interior you would find in a top-trim Ford F-150. 

The 2022 Ford Maverick XL is a basic compact pickup truck. Here it has soil loaded into its bed.
2022 Ford Maverick XL | Ford

Each 2022 Maverick truck comes equipped with front-wheel drive and a hybrid engine as standard fare. While a turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive are available, they will add extra cost to this cheap, small truck.

How basic is the 2022 Maverick XL hybrid?

The base version of the Maverick pickup truck, the XL, is a fairly basic vehicle. It does not come standard with common features such as cruise control, and the interior feels more purpose-built than refined. That said, for those shopping for a basic truck that doesn’t break the bank, this model may be the right choice. Its hybrid powertrain provides legitimate efficiency and it still features a truck bed. Because of that, you will have a vehicle that can do some light hauling. 

A 2022 Ford Maverick drives on a remote road as a compact pickup truck.
2022 Ford Maverick | Ford

Even with the base Maverick pickup truck, according to Torque News, buyers still get modern infotainment which is likely to be appreciated. Although, do not expect things like heated seats to come standard. Those types of comforts will cost extra for this Ford small truck. 

Should you buy a Ford Maverick XL?

If you are shopping for a compact truck and don’t need a long list of features, the Ford Maverick XL is likely the right pick for your needs. It has a starting cost of around $20,000, which puts it closer to a compact car than a pickup truck in terms of pricing. This version of the Maverick also comes with steel wheels, which we feel is a nice perk. 

A blue 2022 Ford Maverick small pickup truck is towing a small cargo trailer.
The 2022 Ford Maverick | Ford

There is one major problem with the 2022 Ford Maverick XL, and that is actually buying one. Earlier in 2022, Ford announced a temporary pause on customer orders of the Maverick. In order to keep up with demand, Ford is focusing on orders as they have been received, which is a reflection on just how popular this compact truck has been. 

Ford is expected to open up orders for the Maverick again come August of 2022. But, it is worth noting that those orders will be for the 2023 model year. Still, we expect the hybrid version of this truck to remain a big seller.

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