Two of the most popular pickups over the past year have been the midsize Tacoma and the compact Ford Maverick. While both trucks have multiple strengths, the 2023 Toyota leads the 2023 Ford Maverick in a big way. It is much better for off road use.
The 2023 Toyota Tacoma is a more capable off-road truck than the 2023 Ford Maverick
Automakers are increasingly offering off-road-capable pickups. However, the Tacoma is a longtime favorite of off-road enthusiasts. It is hard as nails and extremely durable. When driving in the wilderness it takes a beating but it keeps going.
The Tacoma is a more capable off-road truck than the 2023 Ford Maverick. That includes an advanced all-wheel-drive system compared to the Maverick’s base all-wheel-drive setup. The all-wheel drive system provides enhanced traction that enables the Tacoma to traverse rough terrain with confidence. Also, all-wheel drive is not available for the standard Maverick hybrid version. It is only available for the all-gas model.
In addition, the Tacoma has higher ground clearance—9.4 inches, compared to 8.6 inches for the Tacoma. The higher ground clearance enables the Tacoma to drive more safely and effectively on uneven terrain, such as rocks.
Unlike the 2023 Maverick, the 2023 Tacoma has off-road models
Furthermore, unlike the 2023 Maverick, the Toyota Tacoma has off-road models. While Maverick offers off-road packages, like the new Tremor package, it doesn’t have off-road trim. Conversely, Tacoma offers a range of off-road trims, such as the TRD Pro, TRD Off-Road, and Trail Edition.
The pinnacle of Tacoma’s off-road prowess is the TRD Pro. Besides the standard all-wheel drive system, the Tacoma TRD Pro has several off-road features. This includes TRD Pro skid plates, TRD-tuned FOX Inner Bypass shocks, TRD Pro wheels, and Goodyear all-terrain tires.
Also, the TRD Pro features a unique suspension with 1.5-inch front lift and 0.5-inch rear lift to enable the pickup to clear rough terrain with ease. In addition, it has some of the best angles of approach, departure and separation for small and medium-sized pickups.
Other benefits of the Toyota Tacoma over the Ford Maverick
In addition to its off-road prowess, the 2023 has a few other advantages over the 2023 Maverick. This includes higher maximum towing capacity (6,000 vs. 4,000 lbs.) and payload capacity (1,685 vs. 1,564 lbs.).
Also, the Tacoma offers convenience features you can’t get enough for. Examples include a 360-degree camera, tailgate assist, electronic trailer sway control, driver alert monitoring system, and real-time GPS navigation updates.
Furthermore, Tacoma has a free maintenance plan, but Maverick doesn’t. The free maintenance plan, good for two years or 25,000 miles, covers multipoint inspections, alternations, oil changes, and fluid shutdowns.
However, the biggest standout way the 2023 Toyota Tacoma beats the 2023 Ford Maverick is in its capabilities. If you want a pickup truck that can go off-road, the Tacoma is probably the best option for you.
