English
Lietuvių
Latviešu
Eesti
Polski
Русский
Українська
Deutsch
Nederlands
Čeština
Slovenčina
Svenska
Norsk
Dansk
Suomi
Ford Maverick: generations, engines and trims
The name Ford Maverick has been used for several completely different vehicles: a compact SUV sold in Europe (1993–1998), a crossover based on the Escape (around 2000–2007), and a compact pickup truck produced since 2021. We explain how they differ, what engines power them, and what to check when buying a used Maverick.
Maverick in brief
This model name has changed meaning over the decades. The first generation sold in Europe (from 1993) was a body-on-frame SUV, co-developed with Nissan — it's the same vehicle as the Nissan Terrano II. The second generation (around 2000–2007) was a more compact crossover, similar to the Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute.
Since 2021, the Maverick name has returned as a compact pickup, primarily aimed at the US market. It is not officially sold in Europe, so in Lithuania, such vehicles are found only as individual imports.
Which generation to choose
The 1993–1998 Maverick is a rugged body-on-frame SUV with a transfer case and four-wheel drive. It's suitable for those who need off-road capability, but these vehicles are now quite old, so most are bought for their price rather than modern features.
The around 2000–2007 Maverick is a newer, more comfortable, and smoother-riding crossover with a unibody construction. It's more like a daily driver, although the availability of spare parts depends on the specific variant.
The new pickup (from 2021) — modern, with a hybrid drivetrain and contemporary kit, but it's a completely different category to the old Mavericks.
Engines and gearboxes
First-gen Mavericks in Europe were offered with a 2.4-litre petrol engine (around 120hp) and a 2.7-litre diesel, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox.
Second-gen models most commonly had a 2.0-litre petrol engine (around 125hp) and a more powerful 3.0-litre V6 (around 200hp). Most came with an automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive.
The latest pickup is sold with a 2.5-litre hybrid drivetrain and a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine; the gearbox is automatic (hybrid — eCVT).
What to check when buying a used Maverick
The biggest issue with older Mavericks is corrosion. Check the sills, wheel arches, chassis and suspension mounts, especially if the car has spent a lot of time on winter roads.
Check the operation of all-wheel drive: the transfer case shift, propshaft and gearbox noise. For diesel and petrol engines, it's important that there's a clear service history.
If you're buying a US-imported new pickup, check if there are authorised servicing centres in Lithuania and how parts are supplied. Also, check the documents and body condition for previous accidents.
Trim levels
Trim levels vary by generation and market; below are the trim levels of the new-gen (from 2021) pickup in the US market.
XL
From 2021The base pickup trim with essential kit.
- Simpler wheels
- Standard multimedia system
- Often — fewer driver assistance systems
XLT
From 2021Most common trim with comfort-enhancing equipment.
- Larger light-alloy wheels
- Often — larger multimedia screen
- More interior trim details
Lariat
From 2021Top standard trim.
- Single-tone or imitation leather upholstery
- Often — driver assistance systems
- Often — premium sound system
Tremor
from 2022Sportier, more track-focused version.
- Additional chassis and exterior tweaks
- Four-wheel drive and special modes
- Distinctive exterior and interior styling
Comparing new generation trims
| XL | XLT | Lariat | Tremor | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | Budget-conscious buyers | Everyday use | Comfort | Leisure and travel |
| Common wheel sizes | 16–17 inch | 17 inch | 18 inch | 17–18 inch |
| Interior | Basic | Standard | More luxurious trim | Sporty accent |
| Transmission | Mostly front-wheel drive | Front-wheel or all-wheel drive | Front-wheel or all-wheel drive | Mostly all-wheel drive |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Budget-friendly | Mid-range | Premium | Premium |
For most buyers, the new-gen pickup is best suited to the XLT. If you need more kit, go for the Lariat, and the Tremor is only for those who genuinely plan to go off-road.
Pros
- Older models are robust and have good mileage
- The second-gen car is comfortable for daily use
- The new pickup has a hybrid transmission and modern kit
- Prices in the used market are often accessible
Cons
- Older cars are prone to rust
- The new pickup is not officially sold in Europe
- The choice of parts and servicing depends on the generation
Frequently asked questions
Is the Ford Maverick sold in Europe?
The first and second generations were sold in Europe. The new pickup (from 2021) is not officially sold here, so it is only available as an import.
How do the first and second Maverick generations differ?
The first is a rugged SUV, co-developed with Nissan, while the second is a more compact crossover, similar to the Ford Escape. The second generation is more comfortable for daily use, while the first is more capable off-road.
Is the Maverick suitable for off-road driving?
The first-generation Maverick with a transfer case is best suited for this. The second-generation car is more road-oriented, and the new pickup has four-wheel drive, but it is primarily a daily driver.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
