2024 Ford Maverick

The 2024 Ford Maverick XLT immediately impresses with its highly responsive steering and composed chassis, delivering a level of driver engagement rarely found in compact trucks. Taut suspension calibration and excellent road feedback make every commute or winding backroad feel genuinely involving, while the turbocharged engine's eager response adds an extra layer of excitement to daily drives. Enthusiasts who crave a fun, connected drive will find the Maverick XLT's dynamic handling and feedback-focused tuning especially appealing. Its off-road-tuned suspension, available Tremor Off-Road Package, and all-wheel drive system invite spirited exploration, while the heated steering wheel and supportive cloth bucket seats ensure comfort even on longer, twistier routes. On the road, this truck's 2.0L EcoBoost turbocharged engine pairs with an 8-speed automatic transmission that snaps off shifts quickly and smoothlyâespecially in Sport mode, where throttle response sharpens and gear selection holds longer for maximum power delivery. The steering is quick and weighted perfectly, delivering crisp turn-in and authentic road feel. The suspension confidently settles the chassis over mid-corner bumps, and the brakes inspire trust with progressive, linear feedback. Safety tech here is engineered to enhance, not numb, the driving experience. Stability control intervenes subtly, allowing for playful cornering before gently reining things in. The Lane-Keeping System and Blind Spot Info System provide unobtrusive alerts, supporting rather than overriding driver choices. Emergency braking functions as a safety net, bolstering driver confidence without intruding on the natural flow of spirited driving. The Tremor Off-Road Package adds real-world benefits for performance enthusiasts: upgraded suspension with unique tuning, twin-clutch AWD, and an Off-Road Screen for detailed driving data. XLT Luxury features like a heated steering wheel, heated seats, power moonroof, and 12-speaker audio system create a premium, immersive cabin. Trail Control and a heavy-duty transmission cooler support more demanding adventures, while the modular bedliner and tie-downs add everyday utility. Against competitors like the Hyundai Santa Cruz and Honda Ridgeline, the Maverick stands out with its sharper throttle response and more communicative steering. Where others might feel isolated, this truck rewards hands-on drivers with direct feedback and a playful, competent chassis, making every trip more engaging than rivals in its class. Drivers often wonder if this truck is genuinely fun on twisty roads; the answer is yesâits steering is lively, turn-in is precise, and the off-road-tuned dampers keep body roll in check. Sport mode livens up the transmission, holding gears for more control and stronger acceleration. The tactile feel of the heated steering wheel adds to the enjoyment during spirited drives while advanced AWD ensures confidence when traction is pushed to the limits.