Ford Maverick vs. Ranger (2025): MPG, Towing & Everyday Vermont Use

If you’re torn between the Ford Maverick and Ford Ranger, good problem to have. Both are everyday-friendly trucks that fit life around St. Albans—think quick hops down I-89 from Exit 19, early-morning runs to Sand Bar State Park, a tool-and-mulch haul out Georgia Mountain Road, or towing a small camper toward South Hero. This guide breaks down the “regular” versions of both so you can pick with confidence, then book a back-to-back drive at Nucar Ford of Saint Albans.

The quick take

• Maverick: Compact, easy to park around downtown and Merchants Row, excellent fuel economy (Hybrid up to 38 mpg combined), and weekend-ready towing with the available 4K Tow Package.¹⁴
  Check Maverick in stock →
• Ranger: Roomier midsize pickup with up to 7,500 lbs max available towing and up to 1,788 lbs max available payload—great for heavier gear or a bigger boat to Arrowhead Mountain Lake.⁵⁶
  Check Rangers in stock →

Efficiency you’ll feel on I-89

• Maverick Hybrid (FWD): 42 city / 35 hwy / 38 combined mpg.
• Maverick Hybrid (AWD, new for 2025): 40 / 34 / 37 mpg—added winter traction with only a small mpg trade-off.¹⁷
• Maverick 2.0L EcoBoost (AWD): 22 / 29 / 25 mpg for drivers who prefer a turbo gas setup.¹
• Ranger 2.3L EcoBoost: 22 combined mpg (check trims/drivetrains for specifics).²

Vermont tip: Winter temps can lower real-world mpg for any vehicle (hybrids a bit more). Plan accordingly for cold snaps and short trips.⁸

Capability: everyday hauling vs. heavier work

Maverick

• Towing: 2,000 lbs standard; up to 4,000 lbs with the 4K Tow Package—ideal for a small camper or pair of sleds headed up VT-104A.⁴
• Payload: Up to 1,500 lbs max depending on configuration (Hybrid AWD is up to 1,400 lbs).³
• Important: For trailers over 2,000 lbs, Ford requires the 4K Tow Package; pay attention to frontal-area limits and tongue-weight guidance in the towing selector.⁴

Ranger

• Towing: Up to 7,500 lbs when properly equipped with the Trailer Tow Package—confident for a heavier boat or a work trailer.⁵
• Payload: Up to 1,788 lbs max available—more headroom for job-site loads or landscaping runs.⁶

Methodology note: Comparisons here use common “regular” configurations (Maverick Hybrid FWD vs. Ranger 2.3L) unless noted. Always verify your specific VIN’s ratings.⁹

Size, comfort & tech

• Maverick: Smaller footprint that slides into tight downtown spots. For 2025, Hybrid is standard, Hybrid AWD is available, and a 13.2-inch center screen with SYNC 4 is standard across the board—glove-friendly after a frosty morning at Hard’ack.³⁷
• Ranger: More cabin and bed space, with available towing/driver-assist tech that makes longer hauls (say, Route 2 across the Islands) less stressful. Max available towing/payload are clearly listed on Ford’s 2025 Ranger page.⁶

A simple side-by-side (regular models)

• Efficiency: Maverick Hybrid FWD 38 mpg combined vs. Ranger 2.3L 22 combined—if you rack up miles between Burlington and St. Albans, Maverick wins on fuel.¹²
• Towing: Maverick up to 4,000 lbs (with 4K Tow) vs. Ranger up to 7,500 lbs (with Trailer Tow).⁴⁵
• Payload: Maverick up to 1,500 lbs vs. Ranger up to 1,788 lbs (max available).³⁶
• Maneuverability: Maverick is friendlier in tight lots; Ranger gives you extra elbow room without feeling oversized.

Availability, pricing & Nucar perks

• Availability: Maverick demand can outpace local supply. We’ll source your color/trim fast through the Nucar Network and deliver to St. Albans.
• Pricing transparency: Ask for an out-the-door quote—no add-ons without your say.
• Peace of mind: Eligible new purchases may qualify for Nucar’s protection benefits—ask our team for current details.

FAQs

Is the Maverick Hybrid available with AWD?
Yes—new for 2025. EPA rates it at 37 mpg combined.¹⁷

What does Maverick 4K Tow mean for me?
Towing over 2,000 lbs requires the 4K Tow Package; it also changes allowable trailer frontal-area limits. Check the selector before you buy a camper.⁴

What’s the Ranger’s max towing and payload?
Up to 7,500 lbs towing (with Trailer Tow) and up to 1,788 lbs max available payload, when properly equipped.⁵⁶

Will Vermont winters lower my mpg?
Yes—cold weather and short trips can reduce fuel economy; hybrids may see a larger drop. Plan for it and follow winter tips.⁸

Where can I verify ratings for my exact truck?
Use Ford’s Towing Calculator and consult your door-jamb labels/VIN-specific docs.⁹

Visit us

Nucar Ford of Saint Albans
141 Franklin Park W, St Albans City, VT 05478

No-pressure option: Want us to prep both keys and keep the clipboard time short? Tell us your picks and we’ll have them ready curbside.