As a battle of premium upgrades versus value, the Ford Maverick Lariat vs. XLT comparison sees neither side compromise on satisfaction. Instead, these truck trims are oriented toward different sets of needs and wants. See how the value-packed XLT compares to the luxurious Lariat by reading our comparison guide below, and then visit Lake Keowee Ford to test-drive either trim – or both.
The 2025 Ford Maverick XLT vs. Lariat differences can be summed up by their positions in the lineup. The XLT is the affordable middle trim, and the Lariat is the premium top trim. So, what exactly sets them apart? Let's start finding out by first checking out the interior.
The 2025 Maverick XLT model has several perks. This vehicle has a new 13.2-inch touchscreen display, a 4.2-inch gauge cluster screen, a six-speaker sound system, manually adjustable front seats, premium cloth seat upholstery, FordPass Connect™, two 12-volt outlets, rear under-seat storage, and driver assistance features like Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking.
The Ford Maverick Lariat vs. XLT comparison mainly involves the higher-priced Lariat model adding higher-end features to this already strong interior package.
For example, it replaces the XLT model's manual climate control and manual seats with dual-zone auto climate control and a power-adjustable driver's seat (the front passenger's seat remains manually adjustable).
The 2025 Maverick Lariat shares the new 13.2-inch touchscreen display but upgrades the gauge cluster to a 6.5-inch screen. A B&O® premium audio system with eight speakers, ActiveX-trimmed seat upholstery, ambient interior lighting, one-touch power windows, a wireless smartphone charging pad, two 400-watt/110-volt outlets, and a heated steering wheel are among the Lariat trim's standard features.
As for Ford Maverick XLT vs. Lariat exterior differences, there are several noteworthy ways to tell them apart from one another. Specifically, the XLT has black door handles and standard LED headlamps.
Meanwhile, the Lariat has a high-gloss black grille, black-painted side mirror caps, body-colored door handles, and LED headlamps with LED Signature Accent Lighting. The Lariat also has a spray-in bedliner, which is optional on the XLT.
To continue the Ford Maverick Lariat vs. XLT comparison, both models come standard with a 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine with 238 horsepower. Both can also be opted with the available 2.5-liter hybrid engine, which decreases power but increases MPG.
While the Ford Maverick Lariat vs. XLT engine and performance options are essentially the same, how you start the truck differs in standard equipment packages. Specifically, the Maverick Lariat has a standard remote engine start system, while the Maverick XLT has it as optional.
Both the Maverick Lariat and XLT can tow up to 4,000 pounds.1 However, the Ford Maverick towing capacity is a standard rating of 2,000 pounds in both trims when properly equipped. To get the maximum rating, you need to add the 4K Tow Package and opt for AWD, which are available for both trims.
A major difference is that the Lariat trim comes standard with a trailer hitch installed, while the XLT offers this essential towing feature as an option. Both models have the Flexbed system and 10 tie-downs for optimum utility.
Overall, the 2025 Ford Maverick Lariat vs. XLT towing power is a tie, but the lower starting price of the Maverick XLT makes it a bit easier to option in the 4K Tow Package.
As mentioned, both trims have the 4K Tow Package available. However, there are two major package differences to note as you explore our Ford Maverick inventory.
The XLT trim can be given the XLT Luxury Package, which adds several upgrades found in the Lariat trim for an affordable price.
This package's upgrades include a remote engine start system, an eight-way power driver's seat, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a trailer hitch, body-color heated side mirrors, and a few more benefits to discover. It, however, does not include standard Lariat features like ActiveX-trimmed upholstery, wireless phone charging, and dual-zone auto climate control, so the Lariat remains unmatched in terms of its high-end status in the lineup.
Both models offer the Ford Co-Pilot360™ Package with features like a Blind-Spot Information System and Lane-Keeping System. To round out the 2025 Ford Maverick Lariat vs. XLT differences, we must mention that only the Lariat can get the Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist 2.0 Package, which includes exclusive features like Evasive Steering Assist.
Last year's Off-Road Tremor package has been replaced by a full-fledged Ford Maverick Tremor trim level for 2025 and makes our list of Ford lifted truck options with increased ground clearance, an off-road suspension, Trail Control, and more.
This new 2025 Maverick trim level also upgrades the exterior with all-terrain tires and graphic decals, with orange accents found inside and out. If you think the Maverick looks better with all-black accents, check out the Black Appearance Package, available on both trims. The FX4 Off-Road Package is also available on both.
Both the XLT and Lariat trims stand as great choices and further similarities like their shared paint colors can be found. Each trim is suited to a different driver, and the best way to see which is right for you is to get inside and test-drive both. Visit Lake Keowee Ford today and embark on a full in-person Ford Maverick Lariat vs. XLT comparison.
The Maverick XLT is a balanced mid-tier trim with standard features like manually adjustable front seats upholstered in cloth, while the Maverick Lariat is the luxury-oriented top trim level that adds ActiveX-trimmed upholstery, an eight-way power driver's seat, and more as standard. The XLT can be optioned with the XLT Luxury Package for similar appointments and still cost significantly less than the Lariat model.
The Ford Maverick is available with the following package options:
From the bold Black Appearance Package to the ultra-capable 4K Tow Package, the Maverick package options let you customize this truck to be what you want it to be.
The Maverick XLT can be enhanced with the optional XLT Luxury Package, adding comfort and convenience features like an eight-way power driver's seat, heated front seats, remote engine start, and a soft-vinyl heated steering wheel. These amenities and more are standard in the Maverick Lariat, but as more is standard in the Lariat, choosing the XLT Luxury Package lets you get a more value-oriented, affordable truck.
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1When properly equipped. See dealer for details.
