2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 vs 2025 Ford Maverick

The Ford Maverick really shook up the pickup-truck market when it arrived as a 2022 model. Ford’s compact pickup utilizes the same basic platform as the Escape and Bronco Sport crossovers, but it offers real truck capability and a hybrid powertrain to boot. The 2025 model features styling and tech updates, but the biggest news is a Maverick Lobo performance variant and an all-wheel drive (AWD) hybrid, so that’s what we focused on for this first drive.

Verdict: The Maverick is still a great vehicle, but it’s not quite the bargain it once was.

Chevy sells a 2026 Silverado 1500 to meet almost any need, and it’s one of the only trucks in its class with a diesel engine option (the other one is the similar GMC Sierra 1500). The in-cab technology in most trim levels is also impressive. Otherwise, the Silverado falls short in key areas, including performance, fuel economy, safety, and towing technology. That said, the value equation is compelling enough to overcome these flaws—for now.

Verdict: Chevrolet needs to go back to the drawing board to design and engineer a competitive full-size pickup truck. Keep the Duramax, the Google Built-in infotainment system, the CornerStep bumpers, and the Super Cruise option. Ditch everything else because brand loyalty can’t support sales forever and time is running out.