For years, the Toyota Tacoma has been the go-to option for many people in the market for a midsize pickup truck. But then in 2022 along came the latest Ford Maverick as a keenly priced alternative in the compact truck segment. For 2023 Ford has added a Tremor package, previously only seen on its bigger trucks. While the Tacoma is often considered a one-size-fits-all solution, the Maverick is making a case for itself as an alternative, especially for those looking for affordability and decent fuel economy. Here's how they compare according to our expert reviewers.
2023 Toyota Tacoma vs 2023 Ford Maverick
Look and Feel
According to CarGurus experts, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma scores a 9 out of 10 for look and feel, while the 2023 Ford Maverick comes in close with an 8 out of 10. The Tacoma's aesthetics scream ruggedness and off-road readiness. It's comfortable for the daily drive but can also tackle challenging terrains, making it versatile, not least because Toyota sells it in no fewer than 34 configurations, ranging from access cab through to a full four-door double cab.
The Ford Maverick offers a cleaner and some might say more modern design. It's less intimidating than the Tacoma, unless you spec it in off-road Tremor trim. While the interior is mainly utilitarian with lots of hard plastics, it's still comfortable enough for daily commuting.
Performance
When it comes to performance, both vehicles are rated at 8 out of 10 by CarGurus experts. The 2023 Toyota Tacoma shines in off-road capabilities, particularly in the TRD Pro trim. It's built for more challenging terrains and offers a superior 4x4 system. However, it's not the most fuel-efficient truck in its class. The engine range includes a 2.7-liter four-cylinder with 159 horsepower and a 3.5-liter V6 with 278 horsepower. The latter is far more satisfying to drive thanks to its extra performance.
Ford's Maverick focuses more on on-road capabilities. It offers decent handling and rides comfortably, making it ideal for those who are less inclined to go off-roading. The addition of the Tremor package also gives it a more rugged appeal for light off-road use. What really sells the Maverick, however, is that it's available with a standard hybrid powertrain in addition to a more powerful 2.0-liter EcoBoost unit.
Form and Function
CarGurus rates the form and function of the Tacoma at 7 out of 10, while the Maverick scores a bit lower at 6 out of 10. The Tacoma offers two body styles: the access-cab and the double-cab, each with their own bed lengths. If you're looking for more room in the rear, the double cab provides a little more legroom, although it's still not the most generous. The Tacoma's standard five-foot loadbed is a useful size, but buyers needing more have the choice of a 6.1-foot bed as well. The maximum payload is 1,685 pounds, and the maximum towing capacity is 6,800 pounds.
Despite being a compact truck, the Maverick is slightly roomier when it comes to legroom and headroom for passengers in the back seats. It offers customization with its interior, which you might want to take up because some of the base trims do feel somewhat utilitarian. The 4.5-foot 'Flexbed' loadbed is not as generous as the Tacoma's, but the 1,559 maximum payload is respectable. Similarly, the Maverick can't match the Tacoma for towing capacity, with a maximum of 4,000 pounds with the available 4K Tow Package.
Technology
Both vehicles scored 6 out of 10 from the experts at CarGurus when it comes to technology. The Tacoma offers essential tech features like Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Although functional, the interface is slightly outdated compared to the competition. We do, however, applaud Toyota for keeping physical knobs and buttons for the climate control and other features, making them easy to operate, even while wearing gloves.
Similarly, the Maverick’s tech offering is sufficient but not groundbreaking. It gives buyers standard features like Bluetooth, wired Apple CarPlay, and wired Android Auto. The Lariat trim adds additional tech features, like a wireless charging pad and Ford's Sync 3 infotainment system.
Safety
When it comes to safety, both trucks scored 7 out of 10 when reviwed by CarGurus. Equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, the Tacoma offers features like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and adaptive cruise control. However, it falls behind in more advanced level 2 autonomous driving aids, reflected by its four-star NHTSA rating.
The Maverick comes with Ford's Co-Pilot 360 suite, offering features like automatic high beams, pre-collision assist, and a rear-view camera. It also earned a four-star rating from NHTSA but with extra notes for rollover resistance and smoke emission during crash tests.
Cost-Effectiveness
The Maverick takes the cake in this category with a 9 out of 10 rating from CarGurus, compared to the Tacoma's 7. Starting at $27,750, the 2023 Tacoma's price is on par with competitors but can go up significantly with higher trims and options. Fuel economy is decent but not groundbreaking. What's key here is that the Tacoma's pricing is more aligned with Ford's Ranger than it is with the Maverick.
With a starting price of $22,595, the 2023 Maverick is extremely cost-effective, especially for those considering a hybrid. Fuel economy is notably better, especially in the hybrid model, making it an attractive option for those looking to save in the long run.
Verdict
This is an incredibly tightly fought contest, as evidenced by the fact that CarGurus experts awarded both the 2023 Tacoma and 2023 Maverick identical overall scores of 7.3 out of 10.
However, making a recommendation is easy on account of these trucks not being direct competitors. Where the Tacoma is a midsize truck that's designed for supreme offroad ability, the Maverick is a compact truck that's more at home in the city. So the choice here comes down to how much you value the Tacoma's ruggedness, extra carrying capacity and reputation for reliability over the Maverick's significantly lower price and running costs.
Choose the 2023 Toyota Tacoma if:
- You prioritize off-road capability and rugged styling.
- You need a truck with a proven track record of reliability.
- You prefer a wide range of configurations and don't mind a slightly higher price tag for premium trims.
Choose the 2023 Ford Maverick if:
- You want a budget-friendly, hybrid compact pickup.
- Interior space and comfort are essential, especially for rear passengers.
- You're looking for an eco-friendly option with impressive fuel efficiency.
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