The 2025 Ford Maverick—a compact pickup that’s been a runaway hit thanks to its fuel efficiency, affordability, and everyday utility—is seeing a price jump. And it’s not due to fancy new features or redesigns. It’s largely because of tariff changes, especially around imports from Mexico, where the Maverick is built.
Why the Tariffs Matter
Ford assembles the Maverick in Mexico, which made it exempt from certain U.S. tariffs—until recently. The “Chicken Tax”, a 25% tariff on imported trucks, has traditionally been avoided through trade deals like USMCA. But new interpretations and shifts in trade enforcement have started to impact Ford’s ability to price the Maverick as aggressively as before.
Result? Prices are rising across the lineup.
2025 Maverick Pricing Breakdown
According to leaked dealer order guides and early price sheets:
- Base XL trim: Now starts just above $25,000, compared to around $23,400 in 2024.
- XLT trim: Sees a $1,000–$1,500 increase depending on configuration.
- Lariat trim: Approaches the $35,000 mark when loaded.
These price increases are significant for a vehicle that built its brand on affordability. In 2022 and 2023, a well-equipped Maverick Hybrid could be had for under $28K. Now, similarly equipped trims are creeping toward the mid-30s.
Trim-Level Changes and What’s New in 2025
While the Maverick isn’t getting a full redesign, there are a few small updates:
- The 2.5L hybrid powertrain remains standard on base trims, with the 2.0L EcoBoost AWD as an option.
- Ford is likely expanding XLT Luxury packages with heated seats, better infotainment, and active driver assist tech.
- There are rumors of new wheel designs, updated colors, and minor infotainment enhancements, but no official new trim yet.
- Ford is expected to phase in more driver-assist features as standard across trims to better match competitors like the Hyundai Santa Cruz.
How Buyers Should Respond
If you’re considering a Maverick, here’s what to know:
Order early: With price increases announced, inventory shortages could still drive dealer markups.
Don’t wait for big discounts: Unlike full-size trucks, the Maverick still sells fast, and incentives are minimal.
Compare against new rivals: Hyundai Santa Cruz, base Toyota Tacoma trims, and used Ridgelines may now compete more closely price-wise.
Hybrid vs. EcoBoost: If you want the most fuel-efficient version, the hybrid is still the winner—but AWD requires upgrading to EcoBoost.
The Maverick is still a smart buy for many shoppers – but the affordability edge that made it a phenomenon is starting to shrink. With tariffs, demand, and production costs all rising, Ford is passing those increases to buyers.
If you’ve been eyeing a Maverick, you’ll want to move fast – before more price hikes roll in or trim options shift again. Otherwise, the value equation that made this little truck such a standout could start slipping.