Ford Maverick vs Jeep Gladiator

The Ford Maverick really shook up the pickup-truck market when it arrived as a 2022 model. Ford’s compact pickup utilizes the same basic platform as the Escape and Bronco Sport crossovers, but offers real truck capability and a hybrid powertrain to boot. The 2025 model features styling and tech updates, but the biggest news is a Maverick Lobo performance variant and an all-wheel drive (AWD) hybrid, so that’s what we focused on for this first drive.

Verdict: The Maverick is still a great vehicle, but it’s not quite the bargain it once was.

Go ahead. Take the top off. Take the doors off. Lower the windshield. No other pickup truck offers the open-air driving experience buyers get with a 2026 Gladiator. This model year, Jeep revised the door hinges to make that experience easier to access. New versions of this midsize pickup are available, too, including a Willys ’41, Sahara, and limited editions called the Rewind, Rockslide, Shadow Ops, and Whitecap.

Verdict: The 2026 Jeep Gladiator combines the fun of a lifestyle vehicle with the capability of a real truck.