2021 Ford F-150 vs 2022 Ford Maverick

The 2021 Ford F-150 retained its rugged and robust exterior styling, reminiscent of its predecessors, with oversized wheel arches and a tall hood. The new model introduced a refreshed front fascia featuring larger headlights and a rounder grille, with 11 grille design options and new tailgate appliques. Ford emphasized improved aerodynamics with active grille shutters, an automatically-deploying air dam, and reshaped cab and tailgate, all aimed at enhancing fuel efficiency. The F-150's aluminum bodywork, including the cab, bed, fenders, and hood, contributed to weight reduction, further aiding fuel economy. Inside, the F-150 maintained its distinctive design with large angular air vents and a high centre console, offering a range of materials from basic to luxurious, as seen in the King Ranch trim with leather upholstery and wood trim.

The 2022 Ford Maverick, in contrast, presented a more conventional pickup appearance, drawing inspiration from larger Ford trucks with its wheel arches and taillights. However, its front end diverged with large headlights and a grille crossbar, lacking a strong styling statement. Smaller than the Ford Ranger, the Maverick utilized a unibody platform shared with the Ford Escape and Bronco Sport, offering a more car-like driving experience. The interior, despite its heavy use of plastic, was creatively designed with multicoloured elements and exposed fasteners, giving it character. The Maverick's interior was praised for its affordability and style, with features like the Ford Integrated Tether System (FITS) for customizable storage solutions.

The 2021 Ford F-150 offered a diverse range of powertrains, starting with a 3.3-litre V6 producing 290 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. A 5.0-litre V8 delivered 400 hp and 410 lb-ft, while two twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engines provided 325 hp and 400 lb-ft from a 2.7-litre engine, and 400 hp and 500 lb-ft from a 3.5-litre unit. A 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6 was also available, offering 250 hp and 440 lb-ft. The standout was the PowerBoost hybrid powertrain, combining a 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 with an electric motor for a total output of 430 hp and 570 lb-ft. The F-150 excelled in payload and towing capacity, with the 5.0-litre V8 achieving a maximum payload of 3,325 pounds and the non-hybrid 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 towing up to 14,000 pounds. The hybrid powertrain, while powerful, had a less smooth transition between electric and hybrid modes.

The 2022 Ford Maverick came standard with a hybrid powertrain featuring a 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine, an electric motor, and a CVT, producing 191 horsepower and 155 pound-feet of torque. An optional 2.0-litre EcoBoost turbocharged engine offered 250 hp and 277 lb-ft, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid was front-wheel drive only, while the EcoBoost offered all-wheel drive. The Maverick FX4 package enhanced off-road capabilities with features like hill-descent control and all-terrain tires. On-road, the Maverick's unibody platform provided a smoother ride compared to traditional pickups. The hybrid powertrain was noted for its linear power delivery and refinement, while the EcoBoost offered more towing capability and spirited acceleration.

The 2021 Ford F-150 catered to those using their trucks as mobile offices, with features like a fold-flat shifter creating a work surface for a 15-inch laptop. Higher trims offered Max Recline Seats for resting on the job site. The F-150 provided ample storage, including a centre-console bin and large cupholders. It came in various cab configurations, with the SuperCrew offering the most rear passenger space. Bed sizes ranged from 5.5 to 8 feet, with features like power running boards and a tailgate step for easier access. The Pro Power Onboard system offered in-bed power outlets, with up to 7.2 kW of output available.

The 2022 Ford Maverick, available only as a four-door crew cab, offered more legroom than the Toyota Tacoma and Hyundai Santa Cruz. Interior storage was abundant, with cubbies, under-seat storage, and the FITS system for customizable accessories. The 4.5-foot bed, though shorter than the Ranger's, provided 1,500 pounds of payload capacity and included features like tiedowns and a multi-position tailgate. The FlexBed system allowed for creative use of the bed space, with options for dividers and a false floor. The Maverick's towing capacity reached 4,000 pounds with the 4K Tow Package, surpassing some crossover SUVs.

The 2021 Ford F-150 featured the new Sync 4 infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and over-the-air updates. An 8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 12-inch option available. The system included physical controls for key functions and offered Pro Trailer Backup Assist and Trailer Reverse Guidance for easier towing.

The 2022 Ford Maverick used the older Sync 3 system, providing standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but not wirelessly. An 8-inch touchscreen and a Wi-Fi hotspot were standard. The system was basic but functional, with features like a phone slot and available wireless charging. Hybrids included a brake-coaching feature to optimize regenerative braking.

The 2021 Ford F-150 had not yet received full crash-test ratings, but the IIHS gave a "good" rating for roof strength. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking, with options for adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring. The F-150 was set to receive Ford's BlueCruise system for hands-free driving later in 2021.

The 2022 Ford Maverick also lacked crash-test ratings. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking, with options for adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane centring.