The 2025 Ford Maverick and Honda Ridgeline appeal to different types of drivers. The question is, which type are you? Our comparison guide helps you choose between Ford’s thrifty compact truck and Honda’s unique midsize pickup.
Key Takeaways
- To save thousands of dollars on a brand new truck, choose the Maverick.
- Ford’s handsomely equipped compact truck gives you the most bang for your buck!
- As a midsize truck, the Ridgeline can tow and haul more than the compact Maverick.
- Thanks to its hybrid powertrain, the Maverick saves you the most money as you cruise to your favorite Colorado hotspots!
Best Price: 2025 Ford Maverick
Not only was the hybrid Maverick designed to save you money at the pump (more on this below), but it’s also the most budget-friendly option (by a lot)! Starting at $28,145*, the Maverick can save you thousands of dollars compared to the 2025 Honda Ridgeline. Honda’s midsize truck starts at $40,150* (which is a pretty steep MSRP, even for the bigger midsize segment).
*Price as of 5/15/25.
More for Your Money: 2025 Ford Maverick
After a major makeover for the 2025 model year, the Maverick comes standard with more features than ever. Ford’s compact truck might be the most affordable option, but you wouldn’t know it by its standard 13.2-inch central touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and safety aids like lane-keeping assistance.
Meanwhile, inside the entry-level Ridgeline, you won’t find anything worth its much steeper price tag. Honda’s midsize truck does come with a few extra features — like a wireless smartphone charger and adaptive cruise control. However, these features are available for the Maverick at a better rate.
Powerful Performance: 2025 Honda Ridgeline
The midsize Ridgeline is the best choice for Colorado drivers in need of extra towing and hauling capabilities. Properly equipped, the Ridgeline can tow up to 5,000 pounds or haul up to 1,583 pounds. Its only engine option, a sturdy V6, even gives you a little extra power compared to the Maverick!
2025 Honda Ridgeline Powertrain Options
- 3.5L V6 (280 horsepower, 262 lb-ft of torque)
- Nine-speed automatic transmission
- All-wheel drive
When it comes to payloads, the Maverick isn’t far behind, hauling up to 1,500 pounds of your camping gear or work materials. Equipped with the 4K Tow package, the new 2025 Maverick can tow up to 4,000 pounds with either of its engine options. (Previously, this package was only available with the more powerful 2.0-liter engine.)
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
Maximum Efficiency: 2025 Ford Maverick
Fuel economy is one of the biggest and best reasons to choose the Maverick! With its standard hybrid powertrain, the 2025 Maverick earns even more than last year: 38 mpg combined (42 city/35 highway). The Honda Ridgeline can’t even come close to those figures, maxing out at 21 mpg combined (18 city/24 highway).
Your New Truck
So, which one works better for daily driving, the Maverick or Ridgeline? In Colorado, the Maverick’s blend of fuel economy and sporty capabilities certainly doesn’t go unnoticed. Not to mention this truck comes at an incredible price. If it were up to us, we’d select the Maverick every time. And we think you’ll agree. Experience everything America’s most affordable pickup truck has to offer — visit us at Brighton Ford for a test-drive!