2023 Ford Maverick Towing and Versatility Guide How Do Bed Lengths Compare Between the 2023 Maverick and 2023 Santa Cruz? The 2023 Ford Maverick cargo bed floor measures 54.4 inches long (4.5 feet), whereas the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz cargo bed floor measures 48.4 inches long (4.0 feet). That 6.0-inch advantage gives the Maverick a distinct edge for carrying longer building supplies, outdoor recreation equipment, and standard cargo without letting the tailgate down. When loading materials side-by-side, that extra half-foot of floor length translates into substantial usable space. Between the wheel wells, the Maverick provides 42.6 inches of width, which allows standard sheets of plywood or drywall to sit flat above the wheel arches when using the multi-position tailgate set to its mid-position angle. The Santa Cruz offers a tapering bed footprint that limits floor width and functional stacking options for flat sheet goods. For active buyers around Junction City loading up kayaks, camping gear, or tools for local projects, those extra 6 inches on the bed floor mean less gear hanging over the rear bumper. To see how these dimensions fit your personal hauling needs, stop by our Junction City showroom location or give our team a quick call to measure the bed in person. Table of Contents What Is the Maximum Towing Capacity of the 2023 Ford Maverick? What Is Included in the Ford Maverick 4K Tow Package and What Did It Cost? What Types of Trailers Can a 2023 Ford Maverick Tow Safely? How Do You Activate Tow/Haul Mode on the 2023 Ford Maverick? What Is the Payload Capacity and Bed Dimensions of the FLEXBED System? What Is the Maximum Towing Capacity of the 2023 Ford Maverick? The 2023 Ford Maverick delivers a maximum towing capacity of 4,000 lbs when equipped with the available 2.0L EcoBoost turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive, and the optional 4K Tow Package. Standard Maverick models—including the 2.5L Hybrid front-wheel-drive powertrain and base EcoBoost configurations without the towing package—are rated for a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 lbs. The powertrain choice directly determines your maximum trailering capability. The 2.5L Hybrid engine generates a combined 191 horsepower and is paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission ( CVT), returning an impressive EPA-estimated 37 mpg combined. However, this hybrid setup is exclusively front-wheel drive and cannot be optioned with the hardware necessary to achieve the higher 4,000-pound threshold. If your trailering demands require pulling heavier loads, the turbocharged 2.0L EcoBoost produces 250 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque through an 8-speed automatic transmission. When paired with intelligent all-wheel drive, this engine provides the mechanical strength needed to haul mid-size utility loads or recreational trailers. Drivers who want to explore broader vehicle options can check out our 2026 Ford Maverick research page or compare mid-size capability across our new Ford Bronco inventory. Should you ever need replacement hardware or hitch components down the road, you can easily order genuine Ford parts directly through our dealership. 2023 Ford Maverick Dimensions & Capacity Capacity and dimensions by trim Feature Lariat AWD Lariat FWD Lariat Tremor Advanced 4WD XL AWD XL FWD XLT AWD Seating 5 5 5 5 5 5 Cargo 33.3 cu ft 33.3 cu ft 33.3 cu ft 33.3 cu ft 33.3 cu ft 33.3 cu ft Curb weight 3,731 lbs 3,674 lbs 3,731 lbs 3,731 lbs 3,674 lbs 3,731 lbs Towing 2,000 lbs 2,000 lbs 2,000 lbs 2,000 lbs 2,000 lbs 2,000 lbs Payload 1,500 lbs 1,500 lbs 1,500 lbs 1,500 lbs 1,500 lbs 1,500 lbs Dimensions & Capacity (continued) Feature XLT FWD XLT Tremor Advanced 4WD Seating 5 5 Cargo 33.3 cu ft 33.3 cu ft Curb weight 3,674 lbs 3,731 lbs Towing 2,000 lbs 2,000 lbs Payload 1,500 lbs 1,500 lbs What Is Included in the Ford Maverick 4K Tow Package and What Did It Cost? Contact us for current pricing on the 2023 Ford Maverick's 4K Tow Package enhances towing capabilities but mandates the 2.0L EcoBoost engine and all-wheel drive. This factory package adds critical mechanical cooling upgrades, shorter axle gearing, and integrated electronic trailering controls to double the truck's pull rating from 2,000 lbs to 4,000 lbs. Hardware additions inside the package focus heavily on thermal management and drivetrain durability under heavy load. Key components include: A higher-capacity radiator and upgraded engine cooling fan A dedicated transmission oil cooler to manage fluid temperatures under continuous load A shorter 3.81:1 final drive axle ratio for enhanced low-end pulling power A 7-pin trailer wiring harness alongside the standard 4-pin connector A factory trailer hitch receiver with an integrated trailer brake controller Opting for this package ensures that key mechanical components remain within safe operating temperatures when pulling heavy loads up steep grades or through hot weather. Buyers browsing our pre-owned vehicle inventory for a used 2023 Maverick should check the window sticker or inspect the rear bumper to confirm the presence of the 7-pin connector and factory brake controller, as these hardware items cannot be fully replicated via simple aftermarket hitches. 2023 Ford Maverick Pricing Pricing by trim Trim Base MSRP Destination charge Lariat AWD $30,575 $1,595 Lariat FWD $28,355 $1,595 Lariat Tremor Advanced 4WD $28,355 $1,595 XL AWD $24,815 $1,595 XL FWD $22,595 $1,595 XLT AWD $27,075 $1,595 XLT FWD $24,855 $1,595 XLT Tremor Advanced 4WD $24,855 $1,595 What Types of Trailers Can a 2023 Ford Maverick Tow Safely? Single-axle utility trailers, teardrop campers, and small boats up to 4,000 lbs are within the safe towing range of a 2023 Ford Maverick equipped with the 4K Tow Package. Standard 2,000 lbs rated Maverick models are ideal for small open utility trailers, jet skis, canoe trailers, and light cargo haulers. Calculating your actual towing weight requires adding the dry weight of the trailer to the weight of fuel, water, cargo, and accessories stored inside it. For example, a small aluminum utility trailer weighing 800 pounds empty carrying 1,500 pounds of landscaping materials yields a total weight of 2,300 pounds—which requires the 4K Tow Package. Additionally, drivers must account for tongue weight, which should stay between 10% and 15% of the total loaded trailer weight without exceeding the truck's maximum rated payload. Maintaining safe trailering habits involves checking tire pressures, verifying lighting connections, and ensuring your brake controller is calibrated before hitting the highway. If you want our certified technicians to inspect your vehicle's hitch alignment or wiring connections before a long road trip, you can schedule Ford service online at your convenience. How Do You Activate Tow/Haul Mode on the 2023 Ford Maverick? Tow/Haul mode on the 2023 Ford Maverick is activated by pressing the drive mode button located on the center console immediately adjacent to the rotary gear shift dial. Repeatedly pressing this button cycles through available drive modes on the instrument cluster display until Tow/Haul is selected and illuminated. When engaged, the vehicle's powertrain control module alters the shift logic of the 8-speed automatic transmission. The transmission holds lower gears longer during acceleration to maximize engine torque and downshifts earlier during deceleration to provide engine braking, which reduces wear on the hydraulic service brakes when descending inclines. Service members at Fort Riley who haul heavy tactical crates or trailered equipment across rolling terrain will appreciate how Tow/Haul mode prevents unwanted gear hunting on uphill stretches. If you are considering upgrading your current vehicle to a truck equipped for heavy hauling, you can start the process by completing a value your trade-in form online. What Is the Payload Capacity and Bed Dimensions of the FLEXBED System? The 2023 Ford Maverick features a maximum payload capacity of 1,500 lbs across all trim levels and engine choices, supported by the versatile FLEXBED storage system. The bed floor measures 54.4 inches long with the tailgate closed, 42.6 inches wide between the wheel wells, and features a low bed-side height that makes loading heavy gear straight over the rails effortless. Ford designed the FLEXBED specifically for DIY customization and practical daily utility. Key functional features built directly into the bed sheet metal include: A multi-position tailgate that can be locked at a 45-degree angle using support cables, aligning its height with the wheel wells to carry 4x8 sheets of plywood flat Pre-cut vertical and horizontal stamped slots in the bed sides that accept standard 2x4 or 2x6 lumber to create segmented cargo dividers Threaded bed holes and Integrated Tether System slots designed for tie-downs, D-rings, or custom 3D-printed accessory mounts Available 110-volt outlets in the bed capable of powering small electric tools or camping equipment When customers walk onto our lot comparing compact trucks, they usually ask to see how plywood sits in the bed before we even open the hood. Understanding how payload capacity works alongside towing capacity is crucial: any tongue weight exerted by a trailer counts directly against your 1,500 lbs total payload limit. To explore the Maverick in person, visit our showroom address at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, call us directly at (785) 238-5114, or start your buying journey early when you get pre-approved for financing online. © 2026 Valor Ford. All rights reserved. Vehicle specification data © JATO Dynamics Limited.

My Take on the Ford SUV Lineup — Insights From Valor Ford What SUV Models Does Ford Offer for 2027? Ford offers a versatile 2027 SUV lineup designed for every driving need, anchored by the compact Escape and off-road Bronco Sport, the midsize two-row Bronco, the three-row family Explorer, the full-size Expedition and Expedition MAX, and the all-electric Mustang Mach-E. Whether you need daily efficiency, serious off-road 4x4 capability, or seating for up to eight passengers with high-capacity towing, Ford builds a purpose-built crossover or SUV to fit your lifestyle. When families visit our showroom floor, they are usually looking for a clear balance between daily versatility and true all-weather capability. A major reason the lineup resonates so well with drivers taking the daily commute along I-70 through Junction City is that Ford builds real capability into every platform rather than just adding cosmetic trim. For buyers who want off-road equipment right out of the box, the 2-door and 4-door Bronco models deliver standard 4x4 with high-clearance suspension options. You can explore our new Ford Bronco selection to see how the advanced terrain management setup compares to traditional utility vehicles. For maximum daily utility, the crossover side of the lineup provides smooth highway efficiency and flexible seating configurations. Compact crossovers like the Escape and Bronco Sport offer light-duty agility, while the three-row Explorer and full-size Expedition give growing families expansive passenger space and heavy-duty towing limits. If you want to check out specific models in person, you can get directions to our showroom or give our staff a quick phone call to confirm current floor availability. Table of Contents How Much Does the 2027 Ford Explorer Cost and Which Trim Offers the Best Value? How Does the Ford Explorer Compare to the Toyota Highlander? How Much Can the 2027 Ford Explorer Tow and Handle Family Cargo? What Is Ford BlueCruise and Which SUVs Offer Hands-Free Highway Driving? What Financing Incentives, Lease Offers, and Trade-In Options Are Available? How Much Does the 2027 Ford Explorer Cost and Which Trim Offers the Best Value? The 2027 Ford Explorer starts at an entry MSRP of $38,680 for the Active trim with rear-wheel drive, while top-tier performance and luxury configurations like the ST reach $53,875 MSRP before option packages. For most shoppers, the ST-Line trim delivers the best balance of price and features by pairing sporty appearance accents and advanced driver-assist options without forcing a jump to the larger twin-turbo V6 engine price bracket. Here is how the starting MSRP breakdown looks across the 2027 Explorer lineup: Trim Level Standard Powertrain Drivetrain Starting MSRP Active 100A 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 RWD (4WD available) $38,680 Active 200A 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 RWD (4WD available) $40,615 ST-Line 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 RWD (4WD available) $44,415 Tremor 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 Standard Intelligent 4WD $49,415 Platinum 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 RWD (4WD available) $50,875 ST 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 RWD (4WD available) $53,875 Adding Intelligent 4WD to RWD-standard models adds $2,000 to the base price. Under the hood, the standard 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine produces a robust 300 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque, mated to a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission. For drivers who want aggressive passing power, the available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 puts out 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, coming standard on the ST trim and available via optional packages on the Tremor and Platinum trims. Shoppers who step up to the ST-Line gain access to 20-inch machined aluminum wheels, black exterior accents, ActiveX® seating material, a surround-view camera system, and hardware compatibility for hands-free highway driving. Families comparing window stickers on our lot often find that trading in a current vehicle makes stepping up to mid-level trims very accessible. You can easily value your trade-in online to establish your equity position, or take a look through our current pre-owned vehicle inventory if you want to explore late-model alternatives. How Does the Ford Explorer Compare to the Toyota Highlander? The 2027 Ford Explorer delivers superior standard horsepower, faster acceleration, and more advanced cabin technology than the Toyota Highlander, giving buyers a more engaging driving dynamic alongside equivalent 5,000-pound maximum towing capabilities. While the Toyota Highlander focuses heavily on smooth efficiency with its standard 265 hp turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder, the Explorer's standard 300 hp 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 provides noticeably quicker throttle response and confident highway merging. When comparing performance benchmarks, the difference becomes even clearer. The performance-tuned Explorer ST with its twin-turbo 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 5.1 seconds, whereas the Highlander takes approximately 7.2 seconds to reach 60 mph. In terms of interior tech, every 2027 Explorer comes standard with a 13.2-inch center touchscreen running the Ford Digital Experience with native Google Maps integration, outsizing the Highlander's standard 8.0-inch display. EPA fuel economy estimates for the Explorer remain competitive for a non-hybrid midsize crossover, earning up to 24 mpg combined ( 20 mpg city / 29 mpg highway) in rear-wheel-drive four-cylinder trim. Both vehicles offer seating for up to seven passengers, but the Explorer's rear-wheel-drive-based architecture gives it a distinct handling advantage around tight corners and under heavy loads. You can review detailed specs and model comparisons on our Ford Explorer research page to see how its cabin layout and powertrain options stand out. How Much Can the 2027 Ford Explorer Tow and Handle Family Cargo? Matching the Toyota Highlander's towing capability, the 2027 Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,000 pounds with the Class III Trailer Tow Package, making it ideal for family adventures and heavy cargo. Inside the cabin, the Explorer offers about 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 46 cubic feet with the third row folded, and topping out at about 86 cubic feet with both rear rows folded flat. Cargo utility is enhanced by thoughtful interior engineering that accommodates everyday family demands. A concealed underfloor storage compartment behind the third row keeps smaller tools and valuables secure, while a reversible load floor cover features a washable rubberized surface on one side for muddy sporting gear or wet outdoor equipment. Standard second-row captain's chairs create an easy pass-through aisle to the rear seats, or families can opt for an available second-row bench to seat seven passengers total. When loading gear, the wide rear liftgate opening makes taking advantage of the full cargo area straightforward. When I walk families through the vehicle on a first visit, I usually show them how the third-row 50/50 split-folding seats fold down flush with the floor with a single manual pull or power button. Whether you are packing luggage for a cross-country highway road trip or loading camping equipment for a weekend at local parks, the Explorer combines practical interior space with serious pulling power. What Is Ford BlueCruise and Which SUVs Offer Hands-Free Highway Driving? Ford BlueCruise is an advanced driver-assist technology that enables hands-free highway driving on over 130,000 miles of prequalified, divided North American highways known as hands-free Blue Zones. Using a network of radar sensors, camera systems, and a driver-facing optical camera, BlueCruise manages steering, braking, lane centering, and acceleration while monitoring head position to ensure your eyes remain attentive on the road ahead. In the Ford SUV lineup, Ford BlueCruise hardware is available on select trims of the Explorer, Expedition, and Mustang Mach-E. The system incorporates intelligent convenience features designed to reduce driver fatigue during long highway trips: Lane Change Assist: Initiates a hands-free lane change when the driver taps the turn signal stalk and the adjacent lane is clear. In-Lane Repositioning: Subtly shifts the vehicle's lateral position within its lane to maintain extra physical buffer space when passing large semi-trucks or wide loads. Automatic Lane Change: Automatically suggests or executes lane changes to pass slower-moving traffic when conditions permit. Owners can choose flexible subscription structures after an initial trial period, including a $495 annual plan, a $49.99 monthly option, or a $2,495 one-time purchase that covers ownership for seven years. By keeping the vehicle centered and maintaining set follow distances, hands-free highway driving transforms extended trips into far less taxing experiences. What Financing Incentives, Lease Offers, and Trade-In Options Are Available? Ford Credit regularly offers competitive financing incentives, low introductory APR rates, promotional lease packages, and factory customer cash programs across the SUV lineup. Seasonal incentives and regional bonus cash frequently lower out-of-pocket costs on new Explorer, Bronco Sport, and Expedition models, making it easier to structure payments around your household budget. For service members and military families stationed at nearby bases like Fort Riley, Ford also offers specialized military incentive programs that can be combined with current national retail offers. Structuring a vehicle purchase involves looking at the complete picture, including your trade-in equity, chosen financing term, and down payment. Submitting an online credit profile early helps our finance team lock in eligible interest rates and regional incentives before you set foot on the lot. Taking advantage of these purchase programs begins with establishing your finance baseline online. You can quickly apply for pre-approval online to review current finance rates and potential monthly payment structures. When you are ready to take a test drive or review incentive figures in person, our staff is available if you want to give us a quick call or stop by our showroom location to explore the entire Ford SUV family. Keep Your Vehicle Running Strong Keep your vehicle performing at its best with our service team: Schedule Pickup and Delivery Service Schedule Ford Service Today Order Genuine Ford Parts © 2026 Valor Ford. All rights reserved.

2023 Ford Maverick Towing & Versatility Q&A: Service Expert Interview When ordered original from the factory, the optional 4K Tow Package on a 2023 Ford Maverick cost $745, making it a practical way to increase a compact pickup's pulling capability up to 4,000 pounds. To explore how this option transforms real-world utility, we sat down with Mike Hogg, Service Director at Valor Ford. With 20 years of automotive service experience, Mike provides expert technical insight into powertrain options, bed versatility, and tow-ready equipment. Q: How Much Does the 4K Tow Package Cost on a 2023 Ford Maverick? A: The factory-installed 4K Tow Package added just $745 to the original vehicle invoice on eligible gas models. That modest price tag doubles maximum trailer capacity from the standard 2,000-pound limit up to 4,000 pounds. For buyers looking at pre-owned trucks on the market today, finding a model equipped with this package provides exceptional pulling value without significantly driving up purchase costs. If you are evaluating pre-owned trucks in person, inspecting the window sticker or checking the rear bumper area confirms if the factory hardware is installed. Drivers interested in verifying tow ratings on pre-owned inventory can stop by our Junction City dealership location or reach out to our team directly at (785) 238-5114 to review specific vehicle equipment build sheets. Q: Which Powertrain and Package Combination Is Needed to Tow 4,000 Pounds? A: Achieving the full 4,000-pound towing capability requires pairing the 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive and the factory 4K Tow Package. The standard 2.5-liter Hybrid powertrain is offered exclusively in front-wheel drive for the 2023 model year and remains capped at a 2,000-pound tow limit regardless of added options. The 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine generates 250 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, routed through an eight-speed automatic transmission. This output provides the necessary low-end grunt for launching heavy trailers up steep ramps or highway grades. Drivers seeking even higher trailering ceilings or off-road capabilities can also explore our new Ford Bronco lineup. For existing Maverick owners looking to add towing accessories, our dealership assists with ordering genuine Ford parts direct from the factory. Q: What Features Are Included in the 4K Tow Package and How Do Off-Road Capabilities Compare? A: Beyond the hitch receiver, the 4K Tow Package upgrades essential mechanical systems to manage thermal loads while pulling heavy trailers. It includes a Class III trailer hitch receiver with a 7-pin wiring harness, an upgraded engine cooling fan, a higher-capacity radiator, an auxiliary transmission oil cooler, and a shorter 3.81:1 final drive axle ratio for improved acceleration under load. "The 4K Tow Package isn't just a trailer hitch bolted to the frame—it adds severe-duty mechanical cooling components to support towing performance." When evaluating off-road performance, buyers can combine the tow package with the FX4 Off-Road Package on XLT and Lariat trims, adding underbody skid plates, tuned suspension shocks, and all-terrain tires. The rugged Tremor trim features a tuned suspension lift and twin-clutch rear differential, though its unique off-road suspension tuning alters standard tow limits. To compare equipped models, shoppers can browse our pre-owned vehicle inventory for available trucks with tow-ready options. Q: How Do Bed Size and Payload Capacity Compare Between the Maverick and Toyota Tacoma? A: The 2023 Ford Maverick features a 4.5-foot FLEXBED with a maximum payload rating of 1,500 pounds across all trim levels and engine choices. By comparison, midsize trucks like the Toyota Tacoma offer 5-foot or 6-foot beds with payload ratings ranging between 1,100 and 1,685 pounds depending on cab and drivetrain setup. For rural property owners across Dickinson County who regularly haul fencing posts, feed bags, or gravel supplies, the Maverick's low bed-side height of roughly 30 inches can make loading heavy gear easier than with taller midsize trucks. The FLEXBED design also incorporates stamped slots for 2x4 dividers, integrated tie-downs, and threaded holes for custom rack installations. Customers planning to upgrade their current vehicle can start by evaluating your vehicle trade-in online to calculate available trade equity. Q: Is the Ford Maverick Unibody Frame Similar to the Honda Ridgeline? A: Both the Ford Maverick and Honda Ridgeline utilize unibody frame construction rather than traditional body-on-frame truck designs, deriving structural stiffness from an integrated cab and bed architecture. This crossover-based engineering eliminates structural flex, lowers vehicle weight, and delivers smooth, car-like ride quality with precise handling over pavement. While the midsize Ridgeline offers a wider bed floor, the compact Maverick delivers superior fuel economy and easier maneuverability in tight parking areas while preserving genuine pickup utility. Readers curious about platform engineering and specs can check out our detailed Ford Maverick research guide. When you are ready to explore purchasing options, getting started is simple by getting pre-approved for financing online through our finance department. Q: How Do You Install an Aftermarket Brake Controller for Heavy Towing? A: Mavericks equipped with the 4K Tow Package come pre-wired from the factory with a trailer brake controller harness located beneath the driver-side dashboard. Installing a compatible aftermarket electronic brake controller involves connecting a matching wiring pigtail directly to the factory plug, allowing precise brake bias adjustments for trailers equipped with electric brakes. For trailers weighing over 2,000 pounds, an integrated or aftermarket brake controller is critical for safe stopping distances and vehicle control. Our certified service technicians handle brake controller installation and complete multi-point tow inspections to ensure your rig is highway ready. You can visit our Goldenbelt Boulevard service center, call our service desk at (785) 238-5114, or conveniently start by scheduling your Ford service appointment online today. © 2026 Valor Ford. All rights reserved.