The compact Ford Maverick and midsize GMC Canyon are pickup trucks that pack a lot of character and capability. Because they’re less bulky than full-size models – like the Ford F-150 and GMC Sierra, they are easier to maneuver, kinder on a fuel budget, and less expensive to drive off the dealership lot.
Are you curious to see how they compare? Let’s take a look at the highlights of each of these trucks.
2025 Ford Maverick
The Ford Maverick, which received a significant update for 2025, uses the same unibody (frameless) platform that underpins the Ford Escape compact SUV. This platform provides a smoother ride and sharper handling than a traditional body-on-frame truck. There are five trims: XL, XLT, and Lariat, plus the new Lobo and Tremor trims.
A fuel-sipping gasoline-electric (hybrid) powertrain comes standard. A 250-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine is optional. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard, and all-wheel drive (AWD) is available.
Ford Maverick Highlights
Maverick Tremor: Don’t think the Ford Maverick is a softy because it rides on the Escape chassis. The Tremor trim level features a raised suspension system, locking 4-wheel drive, 17-inch all-terrain tires, and Trail Control.
Lower cargo bed: The Ford Maverick sits closer to the ground than the Canyon, translating into a lower lift when loading cargo aboard the 4.5-foot-long bed.
Hybrid’s fuel economy: The 191-hp hybrid 4-cylinder delivers mileage that bests many frugal economy cars. It returns an EPA-estimated 38 mpg combined average in city and highway driving.
Thumping sound: The Lariat and Tremor trims come standard with a rich-sounding 8-speaker B&O audio system by Bang & Olufsen, which gives the Maverick an extra auditory attitude.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Maverick models for sale near you.
2025 GMC Canyon
The GMC Canyon has three trims: Elevation, AT4, and Denali. The off-road AT4 has two burlier subpackages: AT4X and AT4X AEV. The Canyon’s starting price is notably higher than the more budget-minded Ford Maverick, but there are good reasons for that price gap. Standard features are plentiful and include an 11.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a remote-locking tailgate.
A turbocharged 2.7-liter 4-cylinder gets the Canyon down the road, producing 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque. All but the Elevation trim have standard 4-wheel drive.
GMC Canyon Highlights
Upscale interior: The Canyon demands more from your truck-buying budget. However, GMC’s Denali trim routinely impresses us with quality and luxury. You get niceties like heated front seats, wood trim, perforated leather upholstery, a Bose audio system, a head-up instrument display, and a 360-degree parking camera.
User-friendly tech: A clear and easy-to-use 11.3-inch touchscreen is standard in the Canyon. It has tech touches like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Google-based voice commands, and Google Maps navigation.
CornerStep bumper, tailgate storage: Truck shoppers value clever storage solutions. The CornerStep rear bumper is a convenient toehold when accessing the cargo bed, and a waterproof tailgate storage compartment is also available.
Off-road AT4X AEV: The AT4X AEV Edition, a package you can add onto the AT4, is a go-anywhere model with locking front and rear differentials, front and rear steel bumpers, 12.2-inch ground clearance, launch control, beadlock-capable 35-inch tires, and Multimatic shocks. Are you planning on venturing off-road? This model is the one to pick. By the numbers, it outdoes the Ford Maverick Tremor.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Canyon models for sale near you.
Similarities
The Ford Maverick and GMC Canyon deliver unique spins on the pickup. They’re smaller and a little easier to park than a full-size truck. They also pack high levels of tech and driver aids, such as forward collision warning and automatic high beams.
Pricing
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 Ford Maverick vehicles and New 2025 GMC Canyon Crew Cab vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
Specifications
| 2025 Ford Maverick | 2025 GMC Canyon Crew Cab | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder | 2.7-liter turbo 4-cylinder |
| Drive Wheels | FWD | 2WD |
| All-Electric Range | N/A | N/A |
| Total Range | N/A | N/A |
| Towing Capacity | 4,000 pounds | 7,700 pounds |
| Payload Capacity | 1,500 pounds | 1,670 pounds |
| Ground Clearance | 8.1 inches | 9.6 inches |
| Horsepower | 191 hp @ 5,600 rpm | 310 hp @ 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 155 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm | 430 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm |
| Transmission | Automatic, CVT | automatic, 8-speed |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| Battery Warranty | N/A | N/A |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | 4 stars | 4 stars |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 121.1 inches | 131 inches |
| Overall Length | 199.8 inches | 213.2 inches |
| Width With Mirrors | 83.5 inches | 84.4 inches |
| Width Without Mirrors | 77.9 inches | 72.4 inches |
| Height | 68.8 inches | 79.8 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 40.0 feet | N/A |
| Headroom, Front | 40.2 inches | 40.3 inches |
| Headroom, 2nd Row | 39.6 inches | 38.3 inches |
| Headroom, 3rd Row | N/A | N/A |
| Legroom, Front | 42.8 inches | 45.2 inches |
| Legroom, 2nd Row | 35.9 inches | 34.7 inches |
| Legroom, 3rd Row | N/A | N/A |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 57.3 inches | 57.4 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 55.6 inches | 56.1 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 3rd Row | N/A | N/A |
| Cargo Behind Last Seat | N/A | N/A |
| Cargo Behind Second Seat | N/A | N/A |
| Cargo With All Seats Down | N/A | N/A |
Specification table reflects the typical configuration of vehicles shown.
Conclusion
GMC did a great job rebooting the Canyon for the 2023 model year. It’s a little larger and more expensive than the Ford Maverick, but ultimately, it’s also the most capable of towing, hauling, and off-road driving.
But don’t discount the mighty wee Maverick. We love how it punches above its weight and is outstanding in terms of mileage when equipped with its hybrid engine. Does it feel more built-to-cost than the fancier Canyon? Yes, but the price tag reflects that reality. The right pickup for you depends on your budget and what you intend to do with the truck.
