2025 Ford Maverick vs 2026 RAM 1500

The 2025 Ford Maverick retained its familiar chunky styling, reminiscent of larger Ford trucks like the Ranger and F-150, while introducing some fresh updates. The removal of the cross bar that previously bisected the headlights gave the Maverick a more conventional look, opening up the grille for various design options depending on the trim level. The Maverick offered a range of trims, including the base XL, XLT, and Lariat, as well as specialty models like the off-road-focused Tremor and the street-truck-inspired Lobo. The Lobo stood out with its lowered suspension, cleaner front fascia, and 19-inch wheels, capturing the essence of modified trucks from the past. Inside, the Maverick boasted a well-designed interior with multicolour trim and exposed screwheads, creating a playful yet high-quality feel.

The 2026 RAM 1500 maintained its big rig-inspired styling, softened over the years to achieve a more graceful appearance while retaining rugged cues. The truck featured various grille designs across its trim levels, with bold "Ram" lettering emphasizing its identity. Lower-end models like the Tradesman, Express, and Warlock sported blacked-out grilles, while mid-range Big Horn and Laramie models showcased bright chrome grilles. High-end Limited and Longhorn trucks had unique chrome fascias, and the top-tier Tungsten model featured a distinctive chrome-and-black grille mesh pattern. Inside, the RAM 1500 offered a range of interior furnishings, from the basic cloth seats of the Tradesman to the luxurious leather surfaces of the Tungsten, providing a comfortable and stylish cabin experience.

The 2025 Ford Maverick offered two powertrain options, with notable changes to drivetrain configurations. The standard hybrid powertrain, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, produced 191 horsepower and 155 pound-feet of torque. It was available with both FWD and AWD. The optional 2.0-litre EcoBoost turbocharged engine delivered 238 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission for most trims, while the Lobo model used a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The Lobo's performance enhancements included a lowered suspension, dual-piston front brake calipers, an upgraded cooling system, and a track-focused drive mode, making it a unique offering among pickup trucks. The Maverick hybrid provided a comfortable ride, with the turbo-four engine offering a power boost for those seeking more performance.

The 2026 RAM 1500 featured a base 3.6-litre V6 engine with an eTorque mild hybrid system, producing 305 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. The reborn Hemi V8, with 395 hp and 410 lb-ft, added a traditional truck rumble to the driving experience. The optional 3.0-litre Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six offered 420 hp and 469 lb-ft, providing more power and better fuel economy than the V8. A high-output version of the Hurricane engine delivered 540 hp and 521 lb-ft. All engines were paired with eight-speed automatic transmissions, and 4WD was standard in Canada. The RAM 1500 excelled in towing capacity, with the Hurricane engine offering a max tow rating of 5,265 kilograms, while the Hemi V8 provided a slightly lower rating. Payload capacities varied across engine options, with the base V6 achieving the highest max payload.

The 2025 Ford Maverick offered a base towing capacity of 907 kilograms, which could be increased to 1,814 kilograms with the optional 4K Towing Package, except for the Lobo and Tremor models. The Maverick's bed featured innovative cargo management solutions, including molded pockets for cargo dividers and a 110-volt outlet. The 4.5-foot bed, though shorter than conventional pickups, allowed for creative cargo solutions, such as locking the tailgate at an angle to accommodate larger items. Inside, the Maverick's cab provided ample headroom and legroom, with intricately molded in-door cubbies for beverage containers and mounting points for 3D-printed accessories.

The 2026 RAM 1500 boasted a well-laid-out interior with a vertically oriented central touchscreen available in three sizes. The Crew Cab offered generous space for four adults, while the smaller Quad Cab had less rear-seat legroom. The RamBox cargo management system provided lockable and waterproof compartments on either side of the bed, and the Multifunction Tailgate offered versatile access options. The RAM 1500's interior featured numerous storage solutions, including a massive centre console opening for larger items.

The 2025 Ford Maverick upgraded its tech offerings with the Sync 4 infotainment system and a standard 13.2-inch touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were now standard, along with an 8-inch digital instrument cluster. The Maverick Lariat featured Pro Trailer Hitch Assist and Pro Trailer Backup Assist, enhancing towing capabilities. However, the reliance on touchscreen controls for temperature and seat heaters was a minor drawback.

The 2026 RAM 1500 featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. Screen configurations varied by model, with optional passenger screens and a full-colour head-up display. A wireless charging pad, available audio systems, and a range of driving modes, including Tow mode, enhanced the RAM 1500's tech offerings. The truck also featured advanced towing technologies, such as the Integrated Trailer Health Monitor and Trailer Reverse Guidance system.

The 2025 Ford Maverick offered standard safety features like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control, but some features, such as blind-spot monitoring, were optional. The NHTSA awarded the Maverick a four-star overall safety rating, with strong frontal and side crash test results. The IIHS ratings were mixed, with a "Good" rating in the updated side crash test but lower ratings in other areas.

The 2026 RAM 1500 came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including lane keep assist, forward collision warning, and blind spot monitoring. The Advanced Safety Group II package included hands-free Active Driving Assist technology. The NHTSA awarded the Quad Cab a five-star overall safety rating, while the Crew Cab received four stars. The IIHS had not released ratings at the time of writing.