2023 Ford Maverick vs Ranger: Which is better?

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The main difference between the Ford Maverick and Ford Ranger is that the Maverick is a more affordable, fuel-efficient compact truck, while the Ranger is a more capable midsize truck better suited for hauling and towing. Keep reading for a comprehensive breakdown of these top-selling Ford trucks.

Head-to-Head Comparison: Maverick vs Ranger

The small and midsize pickup truck market has exploded in popularity over the last few years. With gas prices soaring, many truck buyers are looking for something more efficient than a full-size truck. The 2023 Ford Maverick and 2023 Ford Ranger are two of the hottest selling Ford trucks.

The Maverick debuted for the 2022 model year as Ford’s new compact pickup. Sized like a crossover but with a 4.5-foot bed, the Maverick promises excellent fuel economy at an attractive price point. The Ranger returned to the US for 2019 after years overseas. Slotted above the Maverick as Ford’s midsize truck offering, the Ranger balances utility and efficiency.

This head-to-head comparison will highlight the key differences between the 2023 Ford Maverick and Ranger. We’ll look at size, capability, efficiency, pricing, technology and more. By the end, Vancouver, WA truck shoppers should have a good sense of which Ford truck is the better fit for their needs.

For more information about model research including specs, trims, colors, and more, visit our Maverick and Ranger pages at Westlie Ford.

Size and Styling Differences

When it comes to sheer size and bulk, the midsize 2023 Ford Ranger definitely has the edge over the compact Maverick. The Maverick measures 68.7 inches tall and 72.6 inches wide, with an overall length of 200.5 inches on the SuperCrew body. By contrast, the Ranger SuperCrew stretches 210.6 inches long, 78.8 inches wide and 71.6 inches tall.

The Maverick’s smaller footprint makes it easy to maneuver through crowded city streets and park in tight spaces. The Ranger feels more substantial, with its larger, bolder exterior styling. Both trucks offer seating for up to 5 passengers in most configurations. But the Ranger provides a roomier back seat and cab overall.

In terms of truck bed length, the Ranger wins out. Its 6-foot box is nearly 20 inches longer than the Maverick’s 4.5-foot bed. However, Maverick makes up some ground with its multi-configuration tailgate and bed storage compartments.

Capability and Performance

The Ranger offers two engine choices: a 2.3L EcoBoost 4-cylinder making 275 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, or a 2.7L EcoBoost V6 putting out 315 horsepower and 410 lb-ft. The standard Maverick engine is a hybrid 2.5L Atkinson 4-cylinder paired with an electric motor, generating a combined 191 horsepower. The optional 2.0L EcoBoost engine packs 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.

As expected given the size and power differences, the Ranger’s max towing and payload capacities leave the Maverick in the dust. Properly equipped, the Ranger can haul up to 7,500 lbs and carry a payload up to 1,860 lbs. The Maverick tops out at 4,000 lbs of towing capacity and 1,500 lb maximum payload.

When it comes to capability and performance, the larger 2023 Ford Ranger clearly out-muscles the compact Maverick, and gives capabilities for heavy duty hauling and towing.

Fuel Efficiency and Driving Experience

Fuel efficiency is an area where the 2023 Ford Maverick clearly excels compared to the Ranger. With its standard gas-electric hybrid powertrain, the Maverick delivers EPA-estimated 42 mpg city/33 mpg highway/37 mpg combined. That’s dramatically better than the Ranger’s max estimates of 21 city/26 highway/23 combined with rear-wheel drive and the 2.3L engine.

In real-world driving, Maverick owners report averaging 35-40 mpg for normal commute and errand driving. For the Ranger, expect low-to-mid 20s for mileage with typical mixed use. Towing or hauling heavy loads will further reduce efficiency in both trucks.

The Maverick’s lower curb weight and compact size also give it an agility advantage over the heftier Ranger. Drivers praise the Maverick for its maneuverability and ease of navigating through urban traffic. The Ranger offers a smoother ride quality thanks to its larger size, but the Maverick still provides good comfort.

Pricing and Value Comparison

When it debuted, the Ford Maverick shook up the truck segment with its bargain base price in the low $20,000s. For 2023, the Maverick starts at $22,490 including destination fees. Opting for the more powerful EcoBoost engine bumps the price to $26,985. Well-equipped Maverick Lariat models top out around $35,000.

The midsize 2023 Ranger starts at $27,195 for the entry XL trim with RWD and the 2.3L engine. Stepping up to the XLT adds about $3,000, while the Lariat starts at $38,675. Top-of-the-line Ranger Lariat trims with options can sticker for $45,000 and above.

Given its larger size and greater capabilities, the Ranger offers good value if you need the extra utility. But for basic transportation with some light weekend toy hauling, the Maverick gives you a lot for the money. The standard hybrid powertrain and excellent fuel economy add to the Maverick’s value factor.

Your friends at Westlie Ford encourage shoppers to calculate their needs and determine which truck offers the best value for their budget. Come take a test drive to experience the Maverick and Ranger first-hand.

Technology and Features

Both the 2023 Ford Maverick and Ranger come decently equipped even in base trims, with standard features like:

• 8-inch touchscreen with SYNC 4
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Ford Pass Connect 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot
• Ford Co-Pilot360 driver assist technologies

As you move up the trim ladder, available technology and comfort features include:

• Larger touchscreens (12-inch on Maverick, 10- or 12-inch on Ranger)
• Enhanced voice controls
• Wireless device charging
• Upgraded B&O sound system
• Leather seats
• Power adjustable seats
• Dual zone climate control

The Maverick offers exclusive options like the Flexbed system with adjustable dividers and lighting. The Ranger counters with off-road enhancements like the Tremor package with front locking differential and off-road shocks.

Which Is Better for Buyers Near Vancouver, WA?

So when it comes to choosing between the 2023 Ford Maverick or Ranger, which truck is right for buyers in the Vancouver, WA area?

Here are some key considerations:

• The Maverick is the choice for maximum fuel efficiency. With the standard hybrid powertrain, you can’t beat the Maverick’s city mpg and overall economy. This makes it a great daily commuter if you’re in the Portland, OR area.
• The Ranger is made for more demanding jobs. Need to haul heavy equipment, pull a sizable trailer, or venture off-road regularly? The Ranger has the size, power and capabilities to handle it.
• The Maverick fits tight spaces. Thanks to its compact footprint, the Maverick is easy to park and maneuver through crowded urban areas.
• Budget-focused shoppers get more with the Maverick. You’ll be hard-pressed to match the Maverick’s utility and efficiency at its bargain pricing.
• Go Ranger for more interior room. The Ranger offers a more spacious cab and comfortable ride for passengers.

We have a large inventory of new 2023 Ford Maverick and 2023 Ford Ranger vehicles for sale, including popular trims like the XLT, LARIAT, and much more. We encourages shoppers to a truck out for a spin to see which is the better match. If you are in the Vancouver, Portland, or Battle Ground area, stop by our dealership in Washougal, WA and we’ll help you decide if the Maverick or Ranger is the right truck for your needs and budget.

Got any other questions? Contact us today!

Reviewed By: Ryan Dickerson, General Manager

With over two decades of experience across all facets of the automotive business, Ryan Dickerson leads Washougal’s Westlie Ford dealership with an unmatched passion for Ford vehicles. Applying his expertise in sales, finance, management, and customer service, he provides Westlie Ford clients with personalized guidance on finding the right Ford cars, trucks, SUVs, and crossovers to fit their needs. Known for taking a genuine interest in each customer, he ensures car-buyers receive the small-town friendly experience Westlie Ford is known for, while still providing big-dealership selection and value. Along with doing what he can with helping the local community, Dickerson stays up-to-date on the latest Ford models and technology.