Can’t decide between the 2025 Ford Maverick and Honda Ridgeline? Don’t worry — our comparison guide is here to help you choose between Ford’s fuel-sipping compact truck and Honda’s cushy midsize pickup. By the end, you’ll know for sure which model makes the most sense for your North Carolina lifestyle!
Key Takeaways
- Want to save on a new truck? The compact Maverick is by far the best option!
- Compared to the compact Maverick, the midsize Ridgeline offers extra horsepower and heftier towing capabilities.
- With its base hybrid powertrain, the Maverick earns an incredible 38 mpg combined!
- Each truck offers its own comfort perks — cushy seating in the Maverick and a smooth ride in the Ridgeline.
Budget-Friendly MSRP: 2025 Ford Maverick
Are you asking yourself, “Is the Ford Maverick or Honda Ridgeline better for me?” To help answer this question, it’s a good idea to think about which truck is better for your budget. And compared to the 2025 Honda Ridgeline (from $40,150*), the 2025 Ford Maverick (starting at $28,145*) can save you thousands of dollars on a brand new truck!
*Price as of 5/15/25.
Strongest Performance: 2025 Honda Ridgeline
If you’re shopping for the strongest option, check out the Ridgeline. Compared to the compact Maverick, Honda’s midsize pickup packs a little extra punch with its 280-horsepower V6 engine. The Ridgeline will also help you tow the heaviest toys, thanks to a max tow rating of 5,000 pounds. Max payloads reach 1,583 pounds.
2025 Honda Ridgeline Powertrain Options
- 3.5L V6 (280 horsepower, 262 lb-ft of torque)
- Nine-speed automatic transmission
- All-wheel drive
As the only true compact truck on the road, the Maverick was designed to blend utility with fuel-efficiency (more on this below). But when it comes to power and performance, the Maverick isn’t too far behind the Ridgeline. Equipped with the optional 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, you can power around town with 250 horses. And the 4K Tow Package, now available with either engine option, helps the Maverick tow up to 4,000 pounds. Better still, most trim models can haul payloads of up to 1,500 pounds — no upgrades necessary!
2025 Ford Maverick Powertrain Options
- Standard 2.5L hybrid four-cylinder engine (191 hp, 155 lb-ft)
- Optional turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine (250 hp, 280 lb-ft)
- Continuously variable transmission (with hybrid) or 10-speed automatic transmission (with 2.0L engine)
- XL, XLT, Lariat: front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive
- Lobo, Tremor: all-wheel drive
Most Efficient Ride: 2025 Ford Maverick
Want to make the most of your fuel budget? There’s no better truck for the job than the Maverick, which earns up to 38 mpg combined (42 city/35 highway) with its hybrid powertrain! The Ridgeline can’t really compete with those figures, unfortunately, reaching just 21 mpg combined (18 city/24 highway).
Cruising Comfort: It’s a Tie!
Both trucks ride on a car-like, unibody frame, making them smoother and easier to handle than other pickups. Inside the Honda Ridgeline, you’ll enjoy roomy seating and a comfort-tuned suspension. The Maverick’s seats are a little more comfortably padded, ensuring your long-term support. However, the Ridgeline takes the lead when it comes to smoothing over bumps in the road.
Each model also offers its own perks in the tech department. The Ridgeline comes standard with a few extra safety aids, including adaptive cruise control and blind-spot warning. And the entry-level Maverick treats you to the best infotainment setup, with a bigger touchscreen and Ford’s fast-acting SYNC 4 software. Both trucks include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity!
Your New Truck
The Ridgeline might be able to tow a slightly heavier boat, but the Maverick treats you to incredible fuel economy, street-smart infotainment, and a punchy performance. Best of all, Ford’s compact truck comes at a far better price! Come take the 2025 Ford Maverick for a spin — your next adventure is waiting at Lafayette Ford in Fayetteville.