Maverick Wins 2026 MotorTrend Truck of the Year

Ford has made the Maverick compact truck tougher and more fun, which results in another award. The 2026 model has been named Truck of the Year by MotorTrend. Customers appreciate the improvements that have been made as well with sales of almost half a million. Standing far above the competition, the Ford Maverick stands out in a sea of full-size and bigger-than-life trucks.

Criteria for Judging

Ford updated both the hardware and software on the Maverick to make it more fun and an overall better truck. With these updates, it’s no wonder that the truck stood tall in MotorTrend’s judges’ minds. Trucks were compared in six categories:

• Engineering excellence
• Safety
• Efficiency
• Value
• Advancement in design
• Performance of intended function

Of the six criteria, none are more important than performance of intended function. A truck has a job to do, and it should do it well. The Ford Maverick has taken many of the trailering features of the F-150 and implemented them well. Pro Trailer Hitch Assist has been added with SYNC 4 and the 13.2-inch touchscreen to make it easier to hitch up to a trailer using the backup camera and radar.

Another feature that enhances function for the Maverick is Pro Trailer Backup Assist. You just need to steer the knob on the dashboard to back up with a trailer in tow. Since backing a trailer can be a challenge even for experienced drivers, this feature makes it simpler for novices. Both features are standard on the Lariat trim of the Ford Maverick.

One way that compact trucks are different from their larger counterparts is in everyday commuting. Because they are more efficient, they may be used in a variety of situations. The Maverick has a smooth ride, which makes it appealing to commuters and enhances its versatility.

Other Features

Though the Maverick is a compact truck, it provides more head and legroom than some midsize models. Judges appreciated the updated design of the truck, including color choices and wheel options. While hard plastic inside is practical for a work truck, Ford employed color and textures to create an upscale look.

One area where the Maverick ruled was in efficiency. With a hybrid model, you get some impressive numbers. Even all-wheel drive models offer incredible efficiency at 40 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway for a combined 37 mpg.

The Ford Maverick is also affordable compared to buying a full-size model. Standard safety features give you more confidence, especially when towing or carrying passengers. Some of the standard safety features include:

• Lane keeping
• Forward automatic emergency braking
• Seven airbags

Plus, a host of optional features and systems that provide added peace of mind.

Find Your Ford Maverick

If you want to own MotorTrend’s Truck of the Year, you can check it out in person at Premier Ford of Lamesa. We offer a full inventory of Maverick models for you to choose from, including the popular Lobo. You can browse our inventory or take a truck for a test drive. To get started, fill out our online application or stop by the dealership if you live near Lubbock, Midland, or Big Spring. Contact us to learn more about this truck or to schedule a visit and have the Premier Experience.