The 2025 landscape for compact pickups is heating up with Toyota’s re-entry into the segment, challenging the established contender, the Ford Maverick. Both trucks promise to appeal to a broad audience worldwide, from urban drivers seeking efficiency to weekend adventurers needing versatility. Here’s an expert insight into how the Toyota small pickup will stack up against the Ford Maverick in price and features.
Market Position and Background
The compact pickup segment is gaining traction, driven by customers who want the utility of a truck without the bulk and cost of larger pickups. Toyota has launched a new small pickup based on the reliable Corolla platform, expected to hit the market in 2025, targeting urban explorers and those needing a practical but compact truck option. Meanwhile, the Ford Maverick has already carved out a strong niche as the first compact pickup with a standard hybrid powertrain, championing affordability and fuel efficiency with a starting price around $28,000 to $30,000.
Price Comparison
Pricing is a critical factor for most buyers, and from what industry estimates suggest, the upcoming Toyota small pickup is expected to be priced roughly between $23,000 and $25,000 for its base model. This pricing makes it very competitive and likely to disrupt the segment significantly by positioning itself slightly below the Ford Maverick base price, which starts at around $28,145 and can go up to $43,000 depending on trims and options.
- Toyota Small Pickup: Estimated $23,000 to $25,000
- Ford Maverick: Starts at about $28,145, up to $43,120 for higher trims
This price positioning allows Toyota to target budget-conscious buyers looking for reliable durability with strong brand value while giving the Maverick a run for its money on affordability.
Powertrain and Performance
The Ford Maverick is notable for its standard 2.5L full hybrid engine, offering an EPA-estimated 42 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on highways. This makes it highly fuel-efficient—one of the best in the segment. Additionally, it has a 2.0L EcoBoost turbocharged engine available, pushing performance with a towing capacity of up to 4,000 pounds when equipped with the towing package.
Toyota’s new small pickup, leveraging the Corolla platform, is expected to offer efficient gasoline and possibly hybrid powertrains as well, focusing on lightweight design and urban maneuverability. Though exact specs haven’t been fully revealed, industry whispers suggest competitive fuel economy and a focus on reliability, making it ideal for both city driving and occasional weekend hauls.
Features and Technology
The feature sets of both trucks reflect their target buyers but blend practicality with comfort and tech.
Ford Maverick Highlights:
- Available 13.2-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Standard hybrid powertrain with optional AWD
- Safety suite includes lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams
- Towing technology with a trailer hitch assist camera
- Five trims: XL, XLT, Lobo (performance), Lariat, and Tremor (off-road)
Toyota Small Pickup Expected Features:
- Cabin design inspired by Corolla with soft-touch materials and metallic accents
- Likely advanced infotainment options aligned with Toyota’s latest tech stack
- Safety features expected to be robust, including multiple airbags and modern driver assists
- Smaller footprint for better urban navigation and parking convenience
While the Ford Maverick offers a slightly more feature-rich package out of the box, Toyota’s strength lies in its legendary reliability and projected value pricing.
Utility and Capability
Both pickups offer practical utility but cater slightly to different use cases:
- Ford Maverick: With payloads up to 1,500 lbs and a towing capacity of 4,000 lbs, the Maverick is versatile enough for light-duty towing and hauling — great for small trailers, boats, and weekend projects.
- Toyota Small Pickup: Expected to focus more on compactness with adequate payload and cargo space for urban and light recreational use. Its size offers an advantage in maneuvering through tight spaces and congested city streets.
Design and Driving Experience
Toyota’s new compact truck promises a blend of Corolla’s sleek aerodynamic design and the muscular stance needed for a pickup. This mix results in a vehicle that’s easy to drive in urban environments due to its size, but rugged enough to handle weekend adventures.
The Ford Maverick, built on a unibody platform, drives more like a crossover SUV, providing car-like comfort, easier drivability, and parking convenience. Both vehicles aim to attract younger, urban buyers who want the look and utility of a truck without dealing with traditional truck size or gas guzzling.
Global Appeal
Both trucks target a broad international audience, but Toyota’s global reputation for durability and low maintenance costs may give it an edge in markets where reliability is paramount. The Ford Maverick shines in North America due to its hybrid innovation and pricing but also attracts worldwide attention as compact pickups expand in popularity.
Final Thoughts
In summary, the Toyota small pickup is set to be a formidable rival to the Ford Maverick with potentially lower starting prices, Toyota’s hallmark reliability, and a practical feature set designed for modern-day small pickup demands. The Ford Maverick, meanwhile, remains a leader in hybrid technology, urban drivability, and strong towing capabilities at a slightly higher price point.
For worldwide buyers seeking a cost-effective, versatile, and efficient compact truck, comparing these two reveals a compelling battle of price, features, and brand loyalty unfolding in 2025.
Both vehicles define the new wave of pickups—smaller, smarter, and more efficient—while keeping true to the utility and adventure spirit that pickup lovers cherish.