Can You Overland In A Ford Maverick?

Overlanding has traditionally been the domain of rugged, body-on-frame trucks and SUVs, but with the rise of compact pickups like the Ford Maverick, more people are wondering: can a unibody truck handle the rigors of overland travel? With the right modifications, the answer is a resounding yes.

The Build: Enhancing the Maverick for Adventure

The Ford Maverick in question features several key upgrades to improve its off-road capability and overlanding readiness:

2″ Lift Kit – This increase in ride height provides additional ground clearance, making it easier to traverse rough terrain and avoid obstacles that could damage the undercarriage.
245/65R17 Falken Wildpeak A/T Tires – These all-terrain tires offer enhanced traction on dirt, mud, sand, and gravel, ensuring better grip and stability in unpredictable environments.
ROAM Vagabond Lite Tent – Mounted on the truck bed, this rooftop tent provides a comfortable and convenient sleeping solution, keeping adventurers off the ground and away from moisture and critters.
Xtrusion Overland XTR1 Rack – This modular rack system supports the rooftop tent and allows for the mounting of additional gear, such as recovery equipment, extra fuel, or storage boxes.

Performance and Capability

The Maverick, even in its FX4 or Tremor trims, lacks the hardcore 4WD system of larger trucks, but its all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, combined with terrain management modes, makes it more than capable for light to moderate overlanding. The addition of a lift and larger tires further enhances its ability to handle off-road trails. However, deep mud, rock crawling, and extreme articulation remain challenging due to its independent suspension and lack of a low-range transfer case.

Pros and Cons of Overlanding in a Maverick

Pros:

Fuel Efficiency – Compared to full-size trucks, the Maverick delivers impressive fuel economy, reducing the need for extra fuel storage on long journeys.
Compact Size – Easier to maneuver on tight trails and more practical for daily driving.
Affordability – A more budget-friendly entry into overlanding compared to larger, more specialized off-road vehicles.

Cons:

Limited Payload Capacity – Overlanding requires carrying extra gear, and the Maverick’s payload capacity, while decent, is lower than that of traditional body-on-frame trucks.
AWD vs. 4WD – The lack of a true 4WD system with low-range gearing limits extreme off-road capability.
Aftermarket Support – While growing, the aftermarket for Maverick off-road parts is still not as extensive as for vehicles like the Toyota Tacoma or Jeep Wrangler.

Final Verdict

Yes, you can absolutely go overlanding in a Ford Maverick, especially with the right modifications. While it may not tackle the most extreme trails, it’s a fantastic option for those looking for a versatile, fuel-efficient, and budget-friendly overland rig. If your adventures lean towards scenic trails, remote camping, and exploration rather than hardcore rock crawling, the Maverick is more than up to the task.