Which Ford Maverick Trim Is the Best Buy for You?Michael Simari - Car and Driver (Michael Simari - Car and Driver)If you're wondering which version of the Ford Maverick to buy, we recommend the XLT trim level.Choosing the XLT gets you the essentials for a comfortable and useful daily driver.Options to consider include the 4K Tow package and hybrid powertrain.See Our Comprehensive Ford Maverick Make-Model PageShop New Cars | Shop Used CarsThe Ford Maverick is our favorite choice in the small truck segment, and it has four 10Best Trucks and SUVs awards to show for it. Ford offers a lot of choice within the Maverick lineup, so it can be difficult to pick the right spec from among five trim levels and two powertrains. That's where we come in. If you're shopping for a new Maverick, we can save you some time by recommending the trim level and options that pack the best value.Which Maverick Trim Level Is the Best?To get a Maverick you'll be happy living with, we recommend skipping the base LT trim and going for the $31,490[1] XLT. It adds keyless entry and start, power-adjustable side-view mirrors, a power tailgate lock, additional cargo tie-downs in the bed, and 17-alloy wheels in place of the XL's steelies. Cloth seats come standard on the XL and XLT.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe Maverick is available with either a 250-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a fuel-sipping hybrid powertrain, either of which can be paired with front- or optional all-wheel drive. Powertrain and drivetrain choice varies by trim level.What Options Should You Consider?Ford offers a variety of packages to make the XLT more comfortable and more capable. The XLT Luxury package adds several things you might want, such as heated front seats and remote start. We also recommend the 4K Tow package; as the name suggests, it ups the Maverick's towing capacity from one to two tons, but ticking the box requires also adding the Ford CoPilot360 driver-assist package and all-wheel drive. Choosing the hybrid powertrain over the 2.0 turbo adds $1000 on the XLT.XLT Luxury package ($1890): power-adjustable driver's seat, 400-Watt Pro Power Onboard inverter, heated side mirrors with black covers, LED box lighting, heated front seats, remote engine start, vinyl-wrapped heated steering wheelFord CoPilot360 package ($795): automatic high-beams, blind-spot monitoring, evasive steering assist, lane-keeping assist, intersection assist, automated emergency braking with pedestrian protection, rear parking sensorsAll-wheel drive ($2200)4K Tow package, requires Ford CoPilot 360 and all-wheel drive ($745): trailer brake controller, 2-inch Class III hitch receiver with four- and seven-pin connectors, transmission oil cooler, higher-capacity radiator (with 2.0-liter engine), upgraded cooling fan, conventional 17-inch spare tire2.5-liter hybrid powertrain ($1000)Power-sliding rear window ($350)What Do You Miss Out On in the Higher Trim Levels?Above the XLT sit the Lobo, Lariat, and Tremor trims. You have to trade up to get an eight-speaker B&O stereo system, dual-zone automatic climate control, or faux leather seats. Ford also reserves its Pro Trailer Backup Assist and Pro Trailer Hitch Assist for the Lobo and Lariat.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe Lobo is the only trim to get a seven-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, a sport-tuned suspension, and other performance enhancements. Maverick Tremors feature a lifted suspension, all-terrain tires, a four-wheel-drive lock, and other off-road-oriented goodies.You Might Also LikeGift Guide: Best Ride-On Electric Cars for KidsFuture Cars Worth Waiting For: 2025–2029