When most people think of Ford trucks, images of the massive F-150 or off-road Raptor usually come to mind.
But Ford also has a strong presence in the small pickup truck segment — a category that delivers maneuverability, fuel efficiency, and city-friendly dimensions without sacrificing utility.
In 2026, Ford’s small pickup lineup continues to appeal to buyers who want a capable truck that feels easy to drive, park, and live with every day.
This article explains what qualifies as a small Ford pickup in 2026, the available options, their specs, real-world advantages, and whether they make sense for you.
Unlike full-size trucks, small pickups focus on versatility rather than brute towing numbers — making them ideal for young buyers, urban commuters, outdoor adventurers, or anyone who prefers a compact yet capable truck.
What Is a Small Ford Pickup in 2026?
Simply put, small pickups are lighter, shorter wheelbase trucks that sit below the full-size F-150 class. They balance cargo capacity with everyday drivability. They tend to offer:
- Compact exterior size
- Better fuel economy than traditional half-tons
- More affordable pricing
- Easy city handling
In 2026, the key small Ford pickup that represents this niche is the Ford Maverick. Historically smaller pickups like the Ford Courier have come and gone, but the Maverick stands out as Ford’s modern small truck offering.
2026 Ford Maverick: Big Value in a Small Package
The Ford Maverick is the primary small pickup truck in Ford’s 2026 lineup. It stands out because it combines:
- Compact size
- Excellent fuel economy
- Real pickup truck utility
- Affordable pricing
It appeals to buyers who want truck functionality without the size or price tag of larger pickups.
Ford Maverick Quick Specs (2026)
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | 2026 Ford Maverick |
| Class | Small pickup truck |
| Drivetrain | FWD standard / AWD available |
| Engine options | 2.5L Hybrid I-4 / 2.0L EcoBoost I-4 |
| Transmission | e-CVT (hybrid) / 8-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | ~191–250 hp |
| Torque | ~155–277 lb-ft |
| Bed size | ~4.5 feet |
| Towing capacity | Up to ~4,000 lbs (EcoBoost) |
| Payload | ~1,500 lbs max |
| Fuel efficiency | Up to mid-30s mpg (hybrid) |
Engine Options Explained
2.5L Hybrid I-4 (Standard)
The hybrid is the Maverick’s headline feature. It pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with electric motors and an e-CVT. This setup delivers excellent everyday fuel economy, especially around town, without feeling underpowered. Efficiency numbers in the mid-30s mpg make it one of the most economical trucks you can buy in 2026.
This makes the hybrid Maverick very appealing to commuters, budget-conscious buyers, or anyone who wants low operating costs without sacrificing utility.
2.0L EcoBoost I-4 (Optional)
For buyers who want more towing muscle and acceleration, the turbocharged 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder is available with an 8-speed automatic. It boosts power and torque — making the Maverick a stronger tow vehicle (up to ~4,000 lbs properly equipped) and giving it a more confident feel on highways.
This option makes the Maverick versatile enough for light trailers, toy haulers, or recreational gear.
Interior and Practical Comfort
Despite its compact exterior, the Maverick feels roomier inside than many expect.
Cabin features include:
- Intuitive touch infotainment (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto)
- Comfortable seating with optional cloth or upgraded materials
- Spacious rear seating (in crew cab layout)
- Practical storage solutions for day-to-day life
The layout prioritizes user-friendly controls and visibility, making it comfortable for both short errands and long trips.
Bed Utility and Everyday Use
The Maverick’s bed may be smaller than full-size trucks, but it is designed with real utility in mind:
- Tie-downs to secure cargo
- Available bed liner options
- Configurable cargo management
- A size that works well in urban parking
You can haul furniture, bikes, tools, or gear without struggling with turning circles that big trucks need. For many buyers, this blend — compact truck maneuverability with real cargo utility — is the main appeal.
Fuel Economy Advantage
One of the Maverick’s biggest strengths is fuel economy.
- The hybrid model delivers some of the best real-world mpg figures among pickup trucks — a priority for riders whose daily drives are varied.
- The EcoBoost option provides a useful performance balance with still respectable economy compared to traditional V8 pickups.
If you want a truck that saves money at the pump without feeling like a compromise, the Maverick stands out in the small-truck segment.
Towing and Payload: What You Can Do
In terms of capability:
Towing
- Up to ~4,000 lbs with EcoBoost — enough for many small trailers, boats, or lightweight campers. Great for seasonal weekend trips.
Payload
- Around 1,200–1,500 lbs — useful for work tasks, home improvement materials, or gear for weekend hobbies.
For buyers who need heavy construction towing or large travel trailers, full-size trucks remain the better choice. But for everyday hauling and lighter trips, the Maverick’s numbers are competitive and easy to live with.
Safety and Tech Features
Ford equips the 2026 Maverick with a modern safety suite, including:
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane-keeping assist
- Blind-spot warning
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Available adaptive cruise control
These systems help make daily driving safer and boost confidence on highways and in city traffic alike — an important factor when smaller trucks compete against cars and SUVs for commuter drivers.
Pricing and Value
The 2026 Ford Maverick has one of the most accessible price points in the pickup segment, generally starting around:
- Base models: ~$23,000–$26,000
- Mid-range trims: ~$28,000–$32,000
- Top trims / AWD / Options: ~$33,000–$38,000+
This pricing makes it competitive not only with other small pickups but also with compact SUVs, giving it broad appeal.
Who Should Consider a Small Ford Pickup in 2026
The Maverick makes sense for:
- Urban drivers who want truck utility without size overwhelm
- Young buyers who prefer affordable ownership
- Outdoor adventurers with light trailers or equipment
- Budget-conscious owners who value excellent fuel economy
- Tradespeople who haul tools and materials without heavy-duty towing
If you need a full-size truck for heavy towing or commercial use, larger models like the F-150 will serve you better. But for mixed-use daily life that includes occasional hauling, the Maverick hits a sweet spot.
Regional availability and trim highlights
The Maverick is widely available in the U.S. and many global markets with trims such as:
- Base/XL: Most affordable, practical work truck
- XLT: Adds comfort and style features
- Lariat: Premium materials and technology
- Tremor: Off-road-enhanced suspension and cosmetic upgrades
Each trim adds incremental value while preserving the Maverick’s core practicality.
Final thoughts
The 2026 Ford Maverick proves that a small pickup can be practical, enjoyable, and surprisingly capable. It is a truck that respects heritage without getting stuck in tradition. With fuel-efficient powertrains, useful towing, and everyday usability, it represents a smart choice for modern drivers who want all the benefits of a pickup truck in a manageable and affordable package.
If you are shopping for a truck that fits daily life and adventure without compromise, the Maverick deserves a close look.
Summary
The 2026 small Ford pickup truck, anchored by the Ford Maverick, delivers compact size, strong fuel economy, capable towing, and real cargo utility.
With hybrid and EcoBoost options, competitive pricing, and modern safety tech, it caters to a wide range of buyers who want a practical and versatile pickup without the size and cost of full-size trucks. The Maverick proves small trucks still have a large role to play in the modern automotive landscape.