Toyota Tacoma vs Ford Maverick: Which is Right for You? Right Toyota

When it comes to picking the right truck, size matters— but so does capability, efficiency, and the driving experience. The debate between the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Maverick is heating up, especially as drivers in Scottsdale look for the perfect balance of power, utility, and style. Are you seeking a more rugged, full-size truck experience, or a compact, efficient pickup with plenty of features? Both the 2024 Toyota Tacoma and Ford Maverick deliver impressive performance, but each shines in different areas.

Whether you’re tackling weekend adventures or just need a reliable vehicle to get the job done, the choice between these two could be tougher than you think. But don’t worry, we’re here to break down everything you need to know. Let’s dive into the details and help you decide which one is the perfect fit for your needs. Ready to take the next step? Visit Right Toyota in Scottsdale to explore the 2024 Tacoma firsthand!

Size and Dimensions: Understanding the Difference

When it comes to choosing the right truck, size plays a crucial role in how you’ll use it day-to-day. Whether you're hauling gear for a weekend adventure, navigating Scottsdale streets, or driving for work, understanding the size and dimensions of the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Maverick is key to making the best decision.

Toyota Tacoma

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma, a midsize truck, offers a more substantial presence on the road compared to the Ford Maverick. At 213 inches long, 76.9 inches wide, and 73.8 inches tall, it provides more interior space, especially in the back seats, making it a great choice for those needing extra room for passengers or cargo. The Tacoma is a versatile option, with both 5-foot and 6-foot bed lengths available, offering more flexibility in carrying larger items, whether it’s tools for a work project or outdoor gear for a camping trip.

For those who love the Tundra’s full-size truck size and power, but need something a bit more maneuverable for city driving or off-roading, the Tacoma is the perfect middle ground. It's still big enough to handle tough jobs and off-road excursions, but compact enough to be practical for daily use, just like the Toyota Camry or Corolla balance comfort with practicality for everyday driving.

Ford Maverick

On the other hand, the 2024 Ford Maverick is a compact pickup, measuring 199.7 inches long, 77.9 inches wide (with mirrors folded), and 68.7 inches tall. While this size makes it easier to park and navigate tight spaces, especially in urban settings, it comes with its limitations. The Maverick’s 4-foot 6-inch bed is significantly shorter than the Tacoma’s, making it less suitable for carrying large items or heavy-duty hauling.

This smaller footprint does offer some advantages when it comes to fuel efficiency and ease of handling, but for those who need a truck with more bed space and a more substantial cabin, the Maverick’s compact size may feel limiting. If you're someone used to the spacious feel of a Camry or Tundra, the Maverick might leave you wanting more.

Power and Performance: Engine Specs and Towing Capacity

When it comes to power and performance, the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Maverick offer very different experiences. Whether you're hauling a boat for a weekend trip or simply need a truck with reliable strength for everyday tasks, understanding their engine specs and towing capacity will help you determine which is right for you.

Toyota Tacoma

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma comes with two engine options that provide plenty of power for a range of tasks. The standard 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine delivers 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough for city driving and moderate hauling needs. For those who need extra muscle, the available 3.5-liter V6 engine cranks out 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, making it ideal for tougher jobs and off-road adventures.

In terms of towing, the Tacoma excels. When equipped with the V6 engine and the towing package, the Tacoma can tow up to 6,800 pounds—perfect for towing boats, trailers, or heavy equipment. This towing capacity places the Tacoma in the same league as the larger Toyota Tundra, but in a more compact, manageable package for daily driving.

If you're used to the powerful acceleration and smooth ride of a Toyota Camry or Tundra, the Tacoma offers a great balance. It combines power with efficiency and a commanding presence, making it an excellent option for those who need both performance and versatility.

Ford Maverick

The 2024 Ford Maverick, on the other hand, is designed with a more compact, city-friendly approach to performance. It comes standard with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder hybrid engine that produces 191 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque. This is perfect for fuel efficiency and light hauling around Scottsdale, but when it comes to tougher tasks, the Maverick might not have the muscle you're looking for.

For those who want a bit more power, the Maverick offers an optional 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. While this provides more pep, it still lags behind the Tacoma when it comes to raw towing power.

Fuel Efficiency: Economy vs. Power

When choosing between the Toyota Tacoma and the Ford Maverick, fuel efficiency plays a major role, especially for drivers who want to balance power with economy. Both trucks have their advantages, but depending on your priorities, one might stand out more than the other.

Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma isn't typically known for stellar fuel efficiency, but it does offer a decent balance considering its performance and towing capabilities. The standard 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine in the Tacoma delivers an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. For those who want more muscle, the available 3.5-liter V6 engine gets slightly lower numbers—18 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. While not as fuel-efficient as compact cars like the Toyota Corolla, the Tacoma's efficiency is impressive for a truck that can tow up to 6,800 pounds when properly equipped. If you’re used to the fuel economy of the Camry (up to 32 mpg combined), the Tacoma won’t disappoint, but it’s clear that it's designed more for power and versatility than just pure efficiency.

Ford Maverick

The Ford Maverick, in contrast, is all about fuel efficiency, especially with its hybrid option. The standard 2.5-liter 4-cylinder hybrid engine delivers an impressive 42 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient trucks in its class. For drivers who mostly stay within city limits or want to reduce their environmental impact, the Maverick’s hybrid powertrain is a great choice, offering the kind of economy you'd expect from smaller sedans like the Corolla.

For those who need more power but still want good mileage, the Maverick offers a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine as an upgrade. This engine delivers 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, while still maintaining a respectable 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. While it’s not quite as fuel-efficient as the hybrid, it strikes a nice balance between performance and economy, something that the Tacoma's larger engines can't quite match.

Off-Road Capability: Which Truck is Ready for Adventure?

If your adventures often take you off the beaten path, choosing the right truck with robust off-road capabilities is essential. Whether you're planning to conquer rugged trails, go camping, or explore remote landscapes, both the Toyota Tacoma and the Ford Maverick offer some off-road potential. However, each truck’s approach to off-roading differs significantly, and understanding these differences will help you decide which one is truly ready for your next adventure.

Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma has long been a favorite among off-road enthusiasts, and it’s no surprise why. With the available TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims, the Tacoma is built to handle tough terrain with ease. The Tacoma’s Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) and available locking rear differential provide superior traction on rocky, uneven ground, while its crawl control and multi-terrain select modes ensure that it can tackle anything from loose sand to muddy trails. With a 9.4-inch ground clearance and an approach angle of 32.9 degrees, the Tacoma offers the right combination of clearance, power, and suspension for the truly rugged adventurer.

For comparison, the Tacoma's off-road capability is similar to the Toyota Tundra in its ability to handle tough conditions, though the Tundra is a larger truck designed for even more demanding tasks like towing heavy loads. If you’re looking for something that can handle the trails with the same ease as a Tundra but in a more compact package, the Tacoma is a great choice.

Ford Maverick

While the Ford Maverick is an excellent truck for those who prioritize fuel efficiency and city-friendly size, its off-road abilities are more limited compared to the Tacoma. The Ford Maverick is available with an optional all-wheel drive (AWD) system, which can improve traction on slippery roads or light off-road conditions, but it doesn't offer the heavy-duty off-road features that the Tacoma boasts. The Maverick is more suited to casual off-road trips or light-duty trails—think camping sites or well-maintained dirt roads—rather than the demanding, rock-crawling trails you might find with the Tacoma.

The Maverick is also lower to the ground, with a 6.3-inch ground clearance compared to the Tacoma’s 9.4 inches. This lower clearance limits its ability to handle obstacles such as large rocks or deep mud. The Maverick is certainly capable of taking you to your weekend getaway, but for more serious off-roading, the Tacoma stands as the superior option.

Interior Comfort and Features: Cabin Layout and Technology

When choosing between the Toyota Tacoma and the Ford Maverick, comfort and technology inside the cabin are key factors in enhancing your driving experience. Whether you're cruising through city streets, enjoying a long road trip, or venturing off-road, the right interior features can make all the difference. Toyota, known for its focus on comfort and cutting-edge technology in models like the Corolla, Camry, and Tundra, brings those same qualities to the Tacoma, offering a refined, user-friendly interior that’s built for both work and play. Here’s how the interior features of the Tacoma and Maverick compare.

Toyota Tacoma Interior: Built for Adventure and Comfort

The Toyota Tacoma's cabin is designed with both comfort and rugged durability in mind. The interior layout is straightforward, with controls that are easy to use, even when you're bouncing along a rocky trail. Available in SR, SR5, TRD Off-Road, and TRD Pro trims, the Tacoma offers varying levels of sophistication, from more basic configurations to those packed with premium features.

For those who want a touch of luxury, the TRD Pro model features leather-trimmed seating and a premium audio system, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a blend of comfort and utility. The Tacoma’s spacious cabin offers seating for up to five passengers with adjustable front seats and ample legroom—though being a compact truck, it’s not quite as spacious as the Tundra. The cabin is also highly functional, with easy-to-clean materials, ideal for adventurers who may bring dirt or mud into the truck after a day on the trails.

When it comes to technology, the Tacoma doesn't disappoint. It comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, so you can easily connect your devices on the go. Higher trims feature an available 8-inch touchscreen, which offers an upgraded audio system and additional tech features. For those who need the ultimate off-road experience, the TRD Pro trim includes multi-terrain select and crawl control systems, easily accessed through the intuitive center console.

Ford Maverick Interior: Practical and Modern

The Ford Maverick’s interior is designed to maximize comfort and utility in a smaller, more compact package. While it’s not as rugged as the Tacoma, the Maverick’s cabin is built to be functional for city driving and light-duty adventures. The Maverick features seating for up to five with ample room for front passengers, though rear passenger space is more limited compared to the Tacoma. The cloth upholstery is standard, with an available premium cloth or leather trim in higher trims like the Lariat.

The Maverick’s cabin is modern and clean, with a minimalist dashboard layout that’s straightforward and easy to navigate. A standard 8-inch touchscreen comes equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the Lariat trim adds a larger 8-inch digital display in place of traditional gauges. The system is intuitive, with Bluetooth and USB connectivity standard across the lineup. There’s also a wireless charging pad available in higher trims for those who want to keep their devices charged on the go.

The Maverick’s cabin is crafted with hard-wearing materials—practical for daily use, though not as premium or plush as the Tacoma. Ford also offers unique storage solutions in the Maverick, including hidden compartments and under-seat storage, which is ideal for those looking for practicality in their compact truck.

Bed Features and Cargo Space: Maximizing Your Pickup’s Utility

When it comes to pickups, cargo space is crucial. Whether you're hauling gear for a weekend getaway, loading up tools for a workday, or towing heavy loads, the bed features and cargo capacity make all the difference in choosing between the Toyota Tacoma and the Ford Maverick. Toyota, known for its versatility and practicality in models like the Corolla, Camry, and Tundra, brings the same attention to detail when it comes to truck beds and cargo space, ensuring you have the utility you need, no matter the job. Let’s take a closer look at the bed features and cargo capacities of both the Tacoma and Maverick.

Toyota Tacoma Bed Features: Ready for Anything

• Versatility in Size: The Toyota Tacoma offers a truck bed that’s designed to maximize utility while offering a balance of strength and convenience. The Tacoma is available in two bed lengths: a 5-foot short bed and a 6-foot long bed, depending on the configuration you choose. This provides a versatile option for those who need either a more compact truck for city driving or a longer bed for larger loads. The short bed is ideal for everyday hauling and provides enough space for standard-sized gear, while the long bed gives you that extra room for bulkier items.
• Durability and Functionality: The Tacoma bed is built to handle rough conditions with features like a spray-in bedliner (available on higher trims) that protects against scratches, dents, and rust. Toyota also offers a range of useful features to enhance bed functionality, such as tie-down cleats to secure your cargo, and a lockable tailgate to keep your load safe when you're away from the truck.
• Upgradeable Options: The TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims offer even more rugged upgrades, like an available deck rail system for additional tie-down options, ensuring that whatever you’re hauling stays in place during your off-road adventures. These beds are built with rugged adventures in mind, from hauling dirt bikes to camping gear, while maintaining the high standards of Toyota’s practicality, similar to the Tundra, which offers even larger bed options and more robust payload capacities.
• Payload Capacity: Depending on the trim, the Tacoma offers a maximum payload capacity of up to 1,685 pounds, providing plenty of room for work equipment, recreational gear, or weekend adventures. It’s ideal for those who want a combination of power and practicality without the bulk of a full-size truck.

Ford Maverick Bed Features: Compact Yet Capable

• Daily Cargo Driver: The Ford Maverick, as a smaller, more city-friendly truck, offers a unique approach to cargo space. The Maverick is only available with a 4.5-foot bed, which makes it ideal for daily tasks and lighter loads. The bed is compact, yet it’s still functional enough to carry most everyday items like luggage, gardening supplies, or sporting equipment. While it doesn't offer the sheer size of the Tacoma's beds, it is optimized for users who don’t need the full size of a traditional pickup bed.
• Durability and Functionality: Despite its smaller size, the Maverick doesn’t compromise on durability. The bed features high-strength steel construction, making it sturdy enough for everyday use. Ford also adds some clever touches, like the flexible bed divider and optional bed extenders that provide extra storage when needed, turning the bed into a more customizable space. Additionally, the Maverick bed features pre-drilled holes for easy attachment of accessories like bike racks or toolboxes.
• Flexible Features: Ford also gives owners the ability to add a tailgate with multiple positions, allowing for different ways to carry longer or larger items securely. These thoughtful design features make the Maverick an excellent choice for those who prioritize flexibility and functionality in a more compact vehicle.
• Payload Capacity: While the Maverick bed is smaller, it still offers impressive payload capacity, with a maximum capacity of 1,500 pounds, which is plenty for light-duty hauling needs. Whether it’s moving furniture, picking up supplies for a DIY project, or carrying recreational equipment, the Maverick’s bed provides more than enough space for your everyday tasks.

Safety Features: How Each Truck Protects You

When it comes to choosing the right truck, safety is always a priority. Whether you're navigating city streets or heading off the beaten path, you want to ensure that your vehicle is equipped with the latest technologies to protect you and your passengers. Just like Toyota’s commitment to safety in the Corolla, Camry, and Tundra, both the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Maverick come with an impressive suite of safety features that help give you peace of mind on every journey. Let's take a look at the advanced safety technologies available in these two trucks and how they compare to Toyota's legendary reputation for safety.

Toyota Tacoma Safety Features: Built for Protection

The Toyota Tacoma is designed with your safety in mind, offering a comprehensive range of safety features that are standard across all trims. Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.5 suite of technologies comes equipped on every Tacoma, providing a strong foundation for protecting drivers and passengers. This package includes:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: This system uses cameras and radar to detect vehicles or pedestrians in front of you and can automatically apply the brakes to avoid a collision or lessen the severity of an impact.
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: This feature helps you stay in your lane by providing gentle steering corrections if you unintentionally drift out of your lane.
• Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintaining a safe distance from the car ahead is easier with this feature, which adjusts your speed based on the flow of traffic.
• Automatic High Beams: The Tacoma’s high beams will automatically switch between high and low beams when detecting oncoming traffic, ensuring optimal visibility without blinding other drivers.
• Road Sign Assist: This system detects traffic signs and displays them on your dashboard, making it easier to stay informed while driving.

These features work together to help keep you safer on the road, whether you're on a long road trip or navigating tough off-road conditions. The Tundra, known for its larger size and towing capacity, also comes with these advanced features, offering an extra layer of protection for those tackling even the toughest jobs.

Ford Maverick Safety Features: City-Friendly with Advanced Protection

The Ford Maverick may be a compact truck, but it doesn't compromise on safety. As an ideal option for urban environments, the Maverick comes with a range of advanced driver-assist features designed to keep you safe during your daily commute or weekend errands. The Ford Maverick uses a suite of safety technologies called the Ford Co-Pilot360, designed to help you drive with confidence. It includes:

• Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking: Similar to Toyota’s Pre-Collision System, this feature helps prevent collisions with pedestrians or other vehicles by applying the brakes if needed.
• Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert: This system alerts you when a vehicle is in your blind spot or when you’re backing out of a parking space and another car is approaching.
• Lane-Keeping System: If the system detects unintentional lane drift, it provides steering assistance to help you return to your lane.
• Rearview Camera with Reverse Sensing System: This camera helps you safely reverse, and the system alerts you if objects are detected behind your vehicle.

The Maverick also offers automatic high beams and rear-cross traffic alert as part of its available safety features, making it a great choice for anyone who wants a city-friendly pickup with advanced safety technologies.

Who Should Choose the Toyota Tacoma?

The Toyota Tacoma is the perfect choice for those who need a versatile and rugged truck capable of handling both daily commutes and off-road adventures. If you enjoy exploring rugged terrain or tackling weekend DIY projects, the Tacoma is built for you, offering high ground clearance, four-wheel drive, and off-road trims like the TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro. With a towing capacity of up to 6,800 pounds and a 5-foot bed, it's ideal for weekend warriors who need a reliable partner for hauling tools, equipment, or even a boat. Offering a balance of power and comfort, the Tacoma delivers a smooth ride, premium interior features, and advanced tech, making it just as suitable for city driving as it is for outdoor expeditions. Small business owners and fleet buyers will also appreciate the Tacoma's durability, towing power, and compact size, while its long-term reliability and excellent resale value make it a smart investment for anyone looking for a vehicle that will stand the test of time.

Who Should Choose the Ford Maverick?

The Ford Maverick is the ideal choice for drivers who want a compact, affordable, and eco-friendly truck with great utility, without the bulk of a full-size pickup. If you’re navigating city streets or tight parking spaces, the Maverick offers the maneuverability of a sedan like the Corolla or Camry, but with the added convenience of a truck bed for hauling. Eco-conscious drivers will love its hybrid powertrain, which offers impressive fuel economy and helps reduce their environmental impact. The Maverick is perfect for light hauling, weekend projects, or first-time truck buyers looking for a budget-friendly, practical option. Additionally, it’s a great fit for small business owners and tech-savvy drivers, with modern features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, all at an affordable price. Whether you're looking for a city-friendly truck, a versatile work vehicle, or a cost-effective entry into truck ownership, the Maverick is a well-rounded option.

Wrapping Up: Choose the Right Truck for Your Needs

Choosing between the Toyota Tacoma and the Ford Maverick ultimately depends on your specific needs and lifestyle. If you're after a rugged, adventure-ready truck with superior off-road performance, the Tacoma is your go-to. However, if you’re looking for something more compact, fuel-efficient, and budget-friendly for everyday use, the Maverick might be the better fit. At Right Toyota, we’re here to guide you through these options and ensure you find the vehicle that suits your driving preferences, whether it's the Tacoma, Corolla, Camry, or Tundra.

We invite you to visit Right Toyota and explore our vast selection of new and certified pre-owned vehicles. From dependable Toyota sedans like the Camry to powerful trucks like the Tundra, you’ll find a range of vehicles that combine style, comfort, and performance. If you're interested in value and peace of mind, consider our Certified Pre-Owned Toyota options, which provide a near-new experience at a great price.

If you're in Scottsdale, be sure to stop by and continue your vehicle search with us! Explore everything from the Toyota Tacoma to other top models like the Chevrolet Colorado or Honda Ridgeline to compare your options. Afterward, take a moment to enjoy some local flavors with our guide to 7 Scottsdale Arizona Eateries to Visit This Fall. Whatever you're looking for, Right Toyota is here to help you find the perfect fit and make your vehicle shopping experience seamless and enjoyable!