The Ford Maverick Lobo is ushering in a new era of compact pickups, reintroducing American drivers to the excitement of a sporty, nimble truck that had all but disappeared from U.S. roads.
After a full day behind the wheel of several Maverick Lobos—on a coastal autocross track and the city streets of San Diego and beyond—it’s clear this small but spirited Ford is poised to ignite a response from competitors. Expect rival brands to follow suit with their own entries in this revived segment.
The 2025 Ford Maverick Lobo, a compact pickup, features a rear-drive unit capable of directing up to 50% of torque to the rear axle—and even distributing all of that power to either rear wheel independently. Designed with an eye toward tuner culture and backed by Ford’s arsenal of performance components, the Maverick Lobo dials up both style and capability.
Now available in dealerships, the Lobo paves the way for even more performance-focused trims in the future, while also hinting at the potential for more affordable sport trucks. These models could appeal to younger enthusiasts eager to personalize their ride one paycheck at a time.
2025 Ford Maverick Trim Levels and Pricing
- XL: $26,995
- XLT: $29,495
- Lobo: $35,255
- Lariat: $37,290
- Tremor: $40,350
All Maverick Lobo models come standard with all-wheel drive, a seven-speed automatic transmission, and a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Unlike other Maverick trims, there is no hybrid option for the Lobo.
The Lobo sits lower than its siblings: the front ride height is reduced by half an inch, the rear by 1.12 inches, and the roofline drops 0.8 inches for a sleeker stance.
To elevate performance and handling, Ford equipped the Lobo with an array of components sourced from across its global performance lineup:
- Dual-piston front brakes from the Focus ST
- Quick-ratio steering system borrowed from the European Kuga compact SUV
- Front struts from the Mustang Mach-E
- A new, track-specific “Lobo” drive mode that modifies steering feel, transmission response, and stability controls
Additional Performance Features
- Twin-clutch rear-drive unit can send up to 50% of torque to the rear wheels and distribute it between them for improved cornering and control
- Upgraded engine cooling system with a larger radiator and enhanced fan
- Transmission oil cooler for sustained performance
- 19-inch gloss black wheels
- Gloss black grille and roof
- Lobo-exclusive track drive mode
Currently, the Maverick Lobo faces little direct competition. While the Hyundai Santa Cruz offers a powerful configuration, it doesn’t tap into the tuner-inspired, drift-friendly styling and performance ethos that defined compact street trucks of the 1990s.
Upgrades Across the 2025 Maverick Lineup
Beyond the Lobo, the rest of the Maverick family receives notable upgrades for 2025. The most significant is the addition of available all-wheel drive for the hybrid model—an update expected to attract even more buyers.
Other new features include:
- Adaptive cruise control (available on Lariat and Tremor trims)
- Pro Trailer Hitch Assist and Pro Trailer Backup Assist for easier trailering
- Surround-view camera system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Larger 13.2-inch center touchscreen
- Integrated 5G modem
- Automatic emergency braking
- Automatic high beams
- Lane keeping assist
Room for More
While the Lobo offers an exciting blend of performance and style, there’s still potential for Ford to push the envelope further. An even more aggressive variant could take cues from the Focus ST or RS, adding additional horsepower and sharper handling.
There’s also room at the more affordable end of the spectrum. Priced near $37,000 after destination fees, the Lobo may be out of reach for some younger buyers. Ford could consider a stripped-down variant—less luxurious but equally spirited—perhaps under a new name like “Maverick Coyote,” tailored for DIY customization and grassroots appeal.
Why Consider the 2025 Ford Maverick Lobo?
The Maverick Lobo blends striking looks with legitimate performance upgrades, creating a vehicle that’s both attention-grabbing and practical. Its lively drivetrain and sport-tuned chassis pair perfectly with a functional five-seat cabin and a 54-inch truck bed. For many buyers who’ve never considered a pickup before, the Lobo could be the ideal entry point.
2025 Ford Maverick Lobo Overview
- Configuration: All-wheel drive, five-passenger compact pickup
- Base Price: $35,255 (excludes $1,450 destination charge)
- Price as Tested: $40,750 (excluding import tariffs and $1,595 destination fee)
- Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
- Output: 250 hp @ 5,500 rpm; 277 lb-ft of torque @ 3,000 rpm
- Transmission: Seven-speed automatic
- Fuel Economy (EPA est.): 21 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 24 mpg combined (premium fuel recommended)
- Wheelbase: 121.1 inches
- Overall Length: 200.9 inches
- Width: 72.4 inches (83.5 inches including mirrors)
- Height: 67.7 inches
- Ground Clearance: 7.4 inches
- Passenger Volume: 102.5 cubic feet
- Towing Capacity: 2,000 pounds
- Curb Weight: 3,814 pounds
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