Early impressions- From Edge to Maverick

[NeoPhoenix83]

I can't imagine I'm the first to move from Ford's massively popular (but sadly discontinued) SUV to the Maverick. But I've only seen a few who can compare them directly. This review will mostly be comparing/contrasting the two, and my overall thoughts head to head.

What I had:
2020 Ford Edge SEL.- with AWD, factory towing, Copilot 360 1.0 and the Cold Weather package.
What I got:
2025 Ford Maverick XLT - with AWD, 4K towing, Copilot 360 1.0, XLT Luxury package and the black appearance package.

What remained the same:
2.0L Ecoboost, heated seats and mirrors, Copilot 360, AWD.
What I lost:
"Leather" (or whatever they made it from), auto dimming rear view mirror, hands free lift gate, rain sensing wipers, wireless charger
What I gained:
Drive modes, brake controller, more towing/payload capacity, wireless android auto/apple car play.

I'm going to break this up into a few sections to make it easier to read:
1)Background
2) Appearance (inside and out)
3) Capability
4) Comfort


I'll start with a brief background:

My first truck was my dad's old Ford Ranger (2004 if I remember correctly). It was the 6 ft bed with the extended cap (jump seats in back) and the 4.0L with rear wheel drive. By the time I got it, it had around 120,000 miles on the clock and was rusting like nobody's business. The first thing I did was add a plastic liner to the bed because I quickly realized that in most places the old Rhino lining no longer had sheet metal under it. I put about 40,000 miles on that thing, towing a pop up camper, renovating our small house at the time and driving to/from work. While the drive train was still going strong, the rust became an issue that kept rearing its ugly head, eating through brake lines, suspension components and deep into the frame. I didn't want to give up on that truck, I loved it to death. But I found myself hitching rides from everyone I knew and calling in late to work as it repeatedly broke down. It was time to move on.

It was replaced by a 2017 GMC Sierra. I thought "oooh, I used this truck so much that I'll get a bigger one!" That was about the dumbest thing I've done in my life. That GMC broke down almost as much as the Ranger, drank gas like nobody's business and somehow squatted worse with payloads and towing than the old Ranger did. 2022 arrived, and so did the Maverick. I wanted one.

But nobody could order me a Maverick. Nobody could even get me on the waiting list. The few I saw on dealer lots were desperately marked up, and still flew off in hours. We then sold our little house in the city and bought a few acres and an old farmhouse 30 miles from work. The GMC and it's 17 mpg absolutely had to go. The local Ford dealer couldn't get me a Maverick either, but convinced me to get an Edge - it could tow 3,500 lbs, get 28 mpg and a cheap utility trailer could be used in place of the truck bed. Beggars can't be choosers, and I bought the used Edge, while telling the salesman that once it neared 100,000 miles, I'd be back for my Maverick.

I used the Edge much the same, and it champed its way through cross country camping trips, all while being the most comfortable thing I've ever driven. A $500 4x6 trailer has subbed in decently as a truck bed. But around 90,000 miles the wear started to show. Despite frequent rotation, the tires were showing the wear of the heavy loads, the rear suspension was badly sagging and the rear brakes about gone. Facing a pretty substantial maintenance bill for the vehicle I didn't really want in the first place, it was time to get the Mav.

I'll admit the Eruption Green was what put me over the edge (pun intended?). The Edge was silver, something I've had and seen to the point I'm sick of it, and something about that green really hit me. With the 2025's getting year end discounts and it being an exclusive color, I met my salesman and told him he'd have a sale, if he could get me those year end discounts on the green one. He came through, and I traded the overused Edge for the new Maverick on Black Friday.

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[NeoPhoenix83]

Pics of the two:

 

[Deleted member 5352]

You're gonna love it! It'll be just as comfortable as the Edge. It makes for a great daily commuter. It's actually the most comfortable vehicle I've ever had. Not to mention you'll have an actual bed at your disposal again, be it a small one. Since you got Eruption Green, you will not miss it in a parking lot. It stands out well! I almost got one myself but the numbers simply didn't add up. So, my current '24 Lariat FX4 is here to stay.

 

[JP&R]

So when you reach around 90,000 miles and you have to do all that maintenance that you decided you didn’t want to do on your edge why don’t you send me a message so I can buy your truck?

 

[NeoPhoenix83]

So when you reach around 90,000 miles and you have to do all that maintenance that you decided you didn’t want to do on your edge why don’t you send me a message so I can buy your truck?

Lol, I know. This story makes it seem like I move through cars like candy. While that's been true the last few years, I blame the Ranger. I helped dad order it new and told him he could never trade it in. He drove it till he thought nothing was left, then I drove it until it was literally falling apart around me. We both loved that truck.

I've been searching for a "new" Ranger ever since then. And yes, I know the Ranger name came back, and those are solid trucks. But it feels like it occupies the space that the F150 from 20 years ago, while the Maverick slots in pretty much where the Ranger did before.

 

[NeoPhoenix83]

Section 2: Appearance

Exterior:
Edge- these are well refined over the last few generations. The body is smooth, the lines all make sense and the rear windshield with negative camber gives it a sort of sporty touch. That said, it was silver, much like hundreds of thousands of other vehicles on the road. It's simply an easy way to vanish in a crowd. I will note: Some of the body gaps are unusually large on these as you can see in my photo above.

Maverick- The overall body shape seems smooth, and makes me think of an evolution of the old Explorer Sport Trac. I'll admit I wasn't much of a fan of the 2025 refresh on the exterior, with those little body colored intrusions into the headlight area. I looked at several of the colors, and found that, at least in my opinion, the design looks good in darker colors, where the slightly unusual design is a bit more obvious on lighter colors.

The Black Appearance packages helps with the blacked out logo's and black wheels. I'm still a bit mixed on the hood stripes, but overall am happy I ended up with the package (more on that later).

Interior:
Edge- This was always the grating part for me with the Edge. Ford has this unusual tendency to do a lot of colors on the interior, and with my Edge it was 47 shades of grey. (Yup, 3 short of having any fun). Adding onto it was the attempted "luxury" look with the silver colored plastic accents that tarnished pretty easily and ended up looking cheap.

The center stack was also a real annoyance, with the mid 2010's space ship grouping of buttons smashed together with the early style touch screen. I could adjust the volume from 3 different places, the heated seats from 2, but good luck ever figuring out how to change the input. I'll get into functionality in another section, but this interior was visually busy, and a weird mismatch of two different era's.

Maverick- When I first sat in one, I said "it's so simple!" and the salesman thought I hated it. "That's a good thing!" left my mouth next, and he relaxed. I'll admit I actually like most things on the touch screen. Most functions are on the single bottom row on the screen, and the lack of excessive buttons and controls is pretty appealing to me. The utilitarian interior is a stark departure, but far less chaotic. My house is taking on a "craftsman" style, and this feels like the automotive version of that.

The Black Appearance package really sings on the inside. Gone are the dozens of shades of everything with just enough differences to stand out and annoy you. While the ceiling still has the standard Ford light grey, the rest of the interior is a mix of true black, and the dark blue, which in all honesty looks black in anything but the brightest light.

Verdict: While the exterior of the Edge is slightly more "clean" and polished, it's still an SUV marketed to someone other than me. I'll never own a silver car again, and am really happy to shift to a green and black truck. On the interior, I'm thrilled to leave the busy and chaotic Edge behind for the far simpler surroundings in the Maverick.

 

[NeoPhoenix83]

3) Capability (and functionality)

Edge- This is admittedly a very easy vehicle to drive. the 3,500 lb tow package is pretty outstanding for an SUV, and the range of standard functions is impressive. I will admit to already missing the auto dimming mirror and automatic wipers that don't come on the Mav.

However, this vehicle wasn't without its warts. The trailer sway controller was functional, but often engaged in fights with the Copilot 360, resulting in the help being turned off. Speaking of the Copilot- it seemed like this generation had a tendency to over correct and would bounce you hard off of a lane line if you got too close. Plenty of other things weren't "quite right" here either. The hands free lift gate never worked when you purposely tried to engage it, but walk by too close, or lean down to hook up a trailer, and it would open on my face. The touch screen was almost mushy and slow to respond.

But my least favorite part of this vehicle involved performance. Step on the gas, then give it a full "one, one thousand" before it responds. The transmission liked to think from gear to gear, and the suspension, while comfortable, was floaty like a mid 90's Grand Marquis. It was nice on the highway, but on rough back roads I sometimes felt dangerously disconnected.

Maverick- Well the obvious capability advantage is true here. The payload capacity and truck bed are a huge advantage and the added 500 lbs of tow capacity will be helpful when we upsize our camper in the future. I love the drive mode selections, and the brake controller as well as true tow package are all things I needed badly.

I did lose a few convenience options, though flipping wipers and a mirror at night aren't a huge deal. I appreciate the firmer ride of the truck, as well as the more responsive throttle and "feel." This is about as connected to the road as I've felt since vehicles shifted away from true steering columns and throttle cables to this "fly by wire" style. I'll also admit that the CoPilot 360 is far more subtle, and I've purposely tested it to ensure it's actually working. Instead of throwing you from one side of the lane to another, it instead just prevents you from crossing and does nothing more.

My one minor, yet irritating complaint comes from the center console of the Maverick. I don't mind the dial shifter, but the seats are high (even fully lowered) and the shifter is low, causing you to actually have to reach a little to shift. Same with the drink holders- I feel like I'm placing my coffee thermos on the floor, rather than somewhere convenient for my hand. When you open the arm rest, there's simply a smooth sided pit. I know I can buy trays and organizers on Amazon (and will) but come on, that's just something this truck should have come with.

I also don't fully understand how you standardize wireless Car Play/Android Auto, then don't standardize wireless chargers? Sort of an odd thing to say "You don't have to plug it in anymore! Except... if you want your battery to live." Again- you can go aftermarket affordably, but why should we have to?

Verdict- The Edge certainly has more polish when it comes to convenience and placements than the Maverick, that still feels like it's trying to get its footing a bit in those areas. But the Edge's attempt to be both capable and comfortable falls short and ends up in this weird capability middle ground where it does everything alright, but nothing particularly well. 5 years of software updates also isn't anything to scoff at.

 

[NeoPhoenix83]

And finally Comfort-

Edge- This is definitely a comfortable vehicle and there's no two ways around that. The center console and the door act well as armrests and the seat is built with just the right ergonomic support. Back seat space is ample, and four adults fit well in this vehicle. As far as road trips go, it's the perfect car.

I did have one persistent negative about this vehicle though. The seating position reminds me of a video game chair, inherently leaning you back. It's also placed low on the floor, leaving your legs fully extended in front of you. Standing 6'1, I often felt like I was leaning forward reaching for the steering wheel, with no way to rectify it. Scooting forward left my knees in the dashboard, while scooting back left me doing a half crunch if I wanted to reach anything but the bottom of the wheel.

Maverick- I was told it was "small." No... no it's not. It feels like a truck on the inside, and it has all the space you'd expect. With that said, the back seat certainly isn't appropriate for full sized adults on a road trip.

That said, I feel like the XLT lux package is a must, if comfort is a concern. The ability to adjust the lumbar support, and full 8 way functionality goes a long way toward imitating the ergonomics of the Edge. The one thankful difference is the Mav's higher seating position, which leaves you sitting in it a bit more like a normal chair, upright and at attention. I find it a bit more comfortable and the visibility far better.

Now on the negative side- that blasted center console is a bit too far back, leaving just the tip of my elbow on it, rather than acting like an arm rest. (And I have the set all the way back!). The comfortable arm rest on the door is a little too low as well, leaving me resting my arm high at the base of the window, where it's just hard plastic.

Verdict- The Edge is more comfortable for sure. But the Maverick hits above it's class to be far more comfortable than I expected. In all honesty, a little bit of tweaking to the interior layout would really improve an already impressive interior.


Overall- A few small sacrifices in comfort and convenience prove well worth the cost of the added capabilities. More than ever, I need a truck for the endless list of projects and improvements that are building up at our house. As someone who badly misses my old Ranger, the Maverick scratches that itch. The unique paint color also gives me a really good reason to never let go of it as well.

I will be looking through some of the aftermarket interior enhancements to try and make it a bit more convenient and comfortable.

 

[Huffy]

Pics of the two:

Very nice! I have never had a green vehicle, probably never will, but that Eruption Green is awesome! Best green I’ve ever seen on a vehicle!

 

[Huffy]

And finally Comfort-

Edge- This is definitely a comfortable vehicle and there's no two ways around that. The center console and the door act well as armrests and the seat is built with just the right ergonomic support. Back seat space is ample, and four adults fit well in this vehicle. As far as road trips go, it's the perfect car.

I did have one persistent negative about this vehicle though. The seating position reminds me of a video game chair, inherently leaning you back. It's also placed low on the floor, leaving your legs fully extended in front of you. Standing 6'1, I often felt like I was leaning forward reaching for the steering wheel, with no way to rectify it. Scooting forward left my knees in the dashboard, while scooting back left me doing a half crunch if I wanted to reach anything but the bottom of the wheel.

Maverick- I was told it was "small." No... no it's not. It feels like a truck on the inside, and it has all the space you'd expect. With that said, the back seat certainly isn't appropriate for full sized adults on a road trip.

That said, I feel like the XLT lux package is a must, if comfort is a concern. The ability to adjust the lumbar support, and full 8 way functionality goes a long way toward imitating the ergonomics of the Edge. The one thankful difference is the Mav's higher seating position, which leaves you sitting in it a bit more like a normal chair, upright and at attention. I find it a bit more comfortable and the visibility far better.

Now on the negative side- that blasted center console is a bit too far back, leaving just the tip of my elbow on it, rather than acting like an arm rest. (And I have the set all the way back!). The comfortable arm rest on the door is a little too low as well, leaving me resting my arm high at the base of the window, where it's just hard plastic.

Verdict- The Edge is more comfortable for sure. But the Maverick hits above it's class to be far more comfortable than I expected. In all honesty, a little bit of tweaking to the interior layout would really improve an already impressive interior.


Overall- A few small sacrifices in comfort and convenience prove well worth the cost of the added capabilities. More than ever, I need a truck for the endless list of projects and improvements that are building up at our house. As someone who badly misses my old Ranger, the Maverick scratches that itch. The unique paint color also gives me a really good reason to never let go of it as well.

I will be looking through some of the aftermarket interior enhancements to try and make it a bit more convenient and comfortable.

Interesting write up, thanks for posting.

 

[Cherokee]

Comparing Apples to Oranges.
I see no similarities at all.
SUV, Truck.
Might as well compare a Rav4 to a Tacoma, :’P

 

[NeoPhoenix83]

Comparing Apples to Oranges.
I see no similarities at all.
SUV, Truck.
Might as well compare a Rav4 to a Tacoma, :’P

Both use the same engine, have similar towing capacity and similar seating. Moreso, if you go to a Ford lot, the Maverick occupies a functional spot that the Edge vacated. There is an increasingly large group of people who need good gas mileage, but also something more than the basic 1,500-2,000 lb towing capacity. There is very little on the market right now that can tow 3,500 to 4,000 lbs (good for small campers, mower trailers, covered uhaul rentals, etc) and can come close to 30 mpg on the highway.

The Rav4 to Tacoma comparison is more like comparing the Escape/Bronco Sport to the Ranger.

If you previously bought an Edge and are returning to the Ford lot for something that occupies the same general category, you have some choices to make. You could leave Ford and get something like a Kia Sorento, stay with Ford and upsize to an Explorer, or consider the Maverick, which has less creature comforts, but all the functional ability at a lower entry price than anything else.

 

[shrek]

A couple of the complaints would be mitigated if you had purchased a Lariat. Leatherette seating and the wireless charger are just 2 things; oh and the Drivers power seat. But I digress. Apples to Oranges. I too own a 2024 Edge Titanium and a 2024 Maverick lariat. Owning the 2 vehicles; I can say this; about the only thing that is the same is the 2.0L Ecoboost. The rest is TOTALLY Different.

Auto Dimming mirror can be installed in about 30 mins if you miss it. I did. Local Salvage yard charged me 15.00 for the mirror and the wiring harness; I think mine came from a 2016 or 17 Edge. Look through the forums and you will find quite a few write ups on the install.

 

[NeoPhoenix83]

A couple of the complaints would be mitigated if you had purchased a Lariat. Leatherette seating and the wireless charger are just 2 things; oh and the Drivers power seat. But I digress. Apples to Oranges. I too own a 2024 Edge Titanium and a 2024 Maverick lariat. Owning the 2 vehicles; I can say this; about the only thing that is the same is the 2.0L Ecoboost. The rest is TOTALLY Different.

Auto Dimming mirror can be installed in about 30 mins if you miss it. I did. Local Salvage yard charged me 15.00 for the mirror and the wiring harness; I think mine came from a 2016 or 17 Edge. Look through the forums and you will find quite a few write ups on the install.

I honestly don't miss the leatherette very much. I have the lux package, so I get the powered and heated seat. That's really all that matters to me for seating.

I'll definitely look into the rearview when I get time, if it's that easy I may update it.

That's the biggest thing about going from one to another- they are very different vehicles to drive and use. But at the same time, they both occupy that very narrow market of fuel efficient and capable tow vehicles. That said, the Edge was always a round peg in a square hole for me. It did what I required, but I was definitely misusing it.

There are maybe 4-5 new vehicles in the US market that can both tow 3,500+ lbs and still get 30 mpg (or close).

 

[Captain Wingflap]

Lol, I know. This story makes it seem like I move through cars like candy. While that's been true the last few years, I blame the Ranger. I helped dad order it new and told him he could never trade it in. He drove it till he thought nothing was left, then I drove it until it was literally falling apart around me. We both loved that truck.

I've been searching for a "new" Ranger ever since then. And yes, I know the Ranger name came back, and those are solid trucks. But it feels like it occupies the space that the F150 from 20 years ago, while the Maverick slots in pretty much where the Ranger did before.

Great post. I'd just like to add my tale of my love affair with the legacy Ranger. I bought a 2011 (last year made) drove it 14 years and 180,00 happy miles until the New Jersey winter roads with the brine they have used the last couple of years destroyed the frame. After having it welded twice I knew it was time to put it to sleep. Great vehicle. Having said that, I replaced it with my 2024 Maverick 2.0 and I couldn't be happier. The only real beef I have is that the "Owners Manual" sucks. I have a couple of nit picking things I would change but I believe Ford got it right with this one.

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