Advantages of Upgrading to the Maverick XLT

If you’re looking for a compact truck that has all the cargo-carrying convenience of a pickup without the large footprint and high price tag of a full-size model, the compact Ford Maverick is a great choice. With impressive towing and hauling capacities for its size, this truck offers a great value across its lineup of trim levels.

Today, we’ll be taking a look at one trim in particular, the 2025 Ford Maverick XLT. What upgrades does this trim offer compared to the base XL, and who should consider buying it? Let’s dive in and find out.

Towing & Hauling

We’ll jump right in with some of the most important functions of any truck: towing and hauling. The XL has plenty of potential to be a great towing truck if you add on some optional packages, but its standard lineup is less robust. Opt for the XLT, and you’ll get a 2K trailer hitch receiver with a 4-pin connector as standard fare, so you can tow up to 2,000 lbs for work, play, and anything in between.

For hauling, the base XL features more standard options, including six bed tie-downs to keep cargo secure. Ford’s Flexbed storage system comes standard for both trims, making it easy to organize the bed into segmented compartments, lock the tailgate in three different positions, and crack open cold ones with built-in bottle openers. Additionally, it powers everything from phones to tools, with outlets available only for the XLT trim.

Still, the XLT manages to one-up the base trim. It adds four extra tie-downs, bringing the total to ten, so you have more flexibility when securing your cargo in place. Cubby storage in the bed also provides a great space to keep small but important items in an easy-accessible place that’s protected from the weather and prying eyes.

Security

If you have precious cargo onboard, you want to ensure your truck is fully secure. The Maverick XLT adds a few features that help with this, allowing you to park your pickup with peace of mind. A power tailgate lock can be activated remotely, making it easier to remember to secure the vehicle. A perimeter anti-theft alarm gives you a warning if someone is trying to mess with your truck, so that you can scare off anyone with malicious intent.

Interior

Step inside the cabin, and you’ll find a few other differences that set the XLT apart from the XL. While the seats are still cloth, the colors are different: a unique combination of Navy Pier and Aspen Grey that makes the cab stylish and homey. Backseat passengers are sure to appreciate the addition of a rear armrest with integrated cup holders, allowing everyone to get comfortable and enjoy the ride.

Tech

Many of the tech features on the Maverick are standard across all trims, so you don’t have to upgrade to enjoy a great experience. For instance, the base XL trim comes with a 13.2-inch central touchscreen that runs Ford’s advanced Sync 4 software. It also features the Co-Pilot360 suite of standard driver assist technologies with optional upgrades to keep you safe out on the road.

The XLT trim adds some extra features to enhance your everyday driving experience. While both the XL and XLT trims come with keyless remote start for added convenience, the XLT includes additional comfort and tech upgrades that make your drive even easier and more enjoyable. For instance, the XLT comes with Ford’s Intelligent Access, which can detect when you’re approaching with the key fob and allows you to unlock the doors simply by grabbing the handle, so you don’t have to fumble for your key with full hands or lose it at an inopportune moment.

Driving in the rain or snow requires extra focus, making it easy to overlook small details in the interest of staying safe in a challenging situation. This makes the XLT’s standard wiper-activated LED headlamps a smart touch. You’ll get the extra illumination you need to cut through inclement weather without needing to take an extra step.

Available Packages

So far, we’ve only looked at the standard features that are included on all Maverick XLT models. But Ford knows that you want to be able to make your truck your own. There are numerous packages available to customize your ride. Some, like the 4K Tow Package that unlocks the Maverick’s 4,000-lb towing capacity and additional safety features of the Ford Co-Pilot360 (a driver assist tech package that also includes a lane departure warning, cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, and more), are available on both the XL and the XLT. However, the XLT unlocks a few additional package options that are not available on the XL.

FX4 Off-Road Package

If you want the ability to explore the world beyond paved roads, the rugged FX4 Off-Road Package is worth considering. Adding this to your Maverick XLT gets you a great variety of equipment and tech features, including:

• All-terrain tires for better grip on rough terrain.
• A performance-tuned suspension system to smooth out bumpy rides.
• Exposed front tow hooks to get you out of a jam.
• Upgraded cooling fan to prevent the engine from overheating on thrilling adventures.
• Hill descent control to help you deal with steep slopes.
• Skid plates to protect vital underbody components.
• Selectable drive modes, including ones for off-road driving and slippery roads.

On top of all that, you’ll also get an exclusive decal to show the world that you’re ready for action. This is a great way to get some rugged performance without upgrading all the way up to the top-tier Tremor trim.

XLT Luxury Package

More concerned with on-road comfort than off-road capability? The XLT Luxury Package bundles together some fantastic comfort and convenience features that are sure to improve your time behind the wheel wherever you go. An 8-way power-adjustable driver seat lets you get your position just right to avoid back pain and fatigue, while a soft vinyl-wrapped heated steering wheel is sure to feel just right in your hands. You and your front passenger can both enjoy heated seats to counter the chill of winter days while the remote start system lets you get the AC or heat going before you step inside, so the cabin is the perfect temperature right away.

Additionally, several features are both convenient and practical. Pro Power Onboard lets you power up tools and appliances on the go, everywhere from a worksite to a campsite to a tailgate party. LED box lighting provides full visibility for loading cargo at night.

Black Appearance Package

Lastly, you can add a little style to your truck with some black accents that make the Maverick stand out in a crowd. Make everything black, from the wheels to the roof, grille, and mirrors, for a stunning exterior look, tied together with a black hood decal. You’ll also find black interior accents to bring the aesthetic inside the cabin.

See the Maverick XLT for Yourself Here at Kings Ford

Still not sure whether you want the Maverick XL or XLT? Swing by Kings Ford today to see the lineup for yourself. Our team will be happy to show you the many variants of this fantastic truck and what each has to offer. We’re here to answer any questions you have so you can shop smart.