2025 Honda Ridgeline vs Ford Maverick: Which Truck Fits Work & Play?

Ohio truck shoppers seeking versatility for both weekday duties and weekend fun often find themselves comparing the 2025 Honda Ridgeline and the Ford Maverick. Each midsize truck targets a unique driver profile, but when it comes to balancing capability, comfort, and everyday utility, the Ridgeline stands out.

At Firelands Honda Sandusky, we work with buyers across Sandusky, Clyde, Norwalk, and Elyria who are looking for a dependable vehicle that handles both hard work and relaxed recreation. In this side-by-side comparison, we’ll explore which of these trucks fits your lifestyle best—whether you're towing, tailgating, or just taking on Ohio's unpredictable weather.

Power & Performance: Who’s Built Stronger?

Let’s start with performance. The 2025 Honda Ridgeline comes standard with a 280-horsepower 3.5L V6 engine and Intelligent Variable Torque Management™ (i-VTM4®) all-wheel drive, giving it more muscle and smarter traction than the compact Maverick.

The Ford Maverick offers two engine options:

• A 2.0L EcoBoost® turbocharged engine (250 hp)
• A 2.5L hybrid engine (191 hp combined)

 

Ridgeline Advantages:

• Standard AWD across all trims
• Up to 5,000 lbs towing capacity
• More torque for heavier loads and trailering
• Smoother V6 acceleration on the highway

 

If you need to tow a boat to Lake Erie or haul gear through unpaved backroads, the Ridgeline’s power and rugged suspension give it the edge. See available trims now in our used inventory or come test drive the latest Ridgeline models at Firelands Honda Sandusky.

Bed Utility & Tailgate Innovation

Both the Ridgeline and Maverick come with useful truck beds, but Honda takes functionality a step further with its dual-action tailgate and lockable In-Bed Trunk®—features unmatched in the compact truck segment.

Honda Ridgeline Bed Features:

• 60/40-split tailgate (swings open or folds down)
• 7.3 cu. ft. in-bed trunk with drain plug (great for tailgating or gear storage)
• Composite bed that resists dents, scratches, and rust
• Available truck-bed audio system for outdoor fun

 

In contrast, the Ford Maverick offers a smaller 4.5-foot bed with less flexibility. It does feature the clever FLEX BED™ system with divider slots and 110V power outlets, but lacks the depth, storage, and long-bed versatility of the Ridgeline.

For those who love camping, tailgating, or doing weekend DIY projects, the Ridgeline provides more utility without needing aftermarket mods.

Cabin Comfort and Interior Space

The 2025 Ridgeline delivers a refined, SUV-like interior with seating for five and room to stretch. Honda has always prioritized comfort and quiet cabins—even in its trucks.

Inside, the Ridgeline offers:

• Tri-zone automatic climate control
• Heated front seats and optional heated steering wheel
• Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration
• Rear underseat storage for tools or emergency kits

 

The Maverick, while solidly built, has a more budget-focused cabin design with a tighter rear seat area and more hard plastics throughout.

Looking for luxury in your pickup? Our team at Firelands Honda Sandusky can walk you through trim options like the Ridgeline RTL-E or Black Edition, which add leather seating, premium audio, and advanced navigation.

Everyday Driving and Ride Quality

The Ridgeline’s unibody construction (shared with the Honda Pilot) gives it a smoother, more stable ride than traditional body-on-frame trucks. You’ll feel the difference on Sandusky’s bumpy roads or rural commutes around Clyde and Norwalk.

Where the Maverick drives like a compact car with a bed, the Ridgeline drives like a luxury crossover with the muscle of a truck. Its independent rear suspension also contributes to confident handling, even when the bed is loaded or towing equipment.

Real-World Comfort Perks for Ohio Drivers:

• Easier maneuvering in tight parking lots
• Quiet highway cruising
• Advanced safety systems for unpredictable weather

 

Learn how the Ridgeline’s AWD system handles snowy backroads at our Honda dealership near Elyria, OH.

Tech and Safety: Built for Today

Both the Ridgeline and Maverick come well-equipped with modern safety and connectivity features, but Honda once again raises the bar with standard Honda Sensing® across all trims.

Included in Honda Sensing®:

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
• Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™)
• Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
• Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM)

 

While the Ford Maverick does offer Co-Pilot 360™ safety features, many of them are optional or limited to higher trims. The Ridgeline gives you confidence right from the base model.

Looking to save while upgrading your truck? Explore our certified used Honda Ridgeline models with advanced safety tech at great prices.

Value and Reliability

Honda’s long-standing reputation for reliability and low cost of ownership gives Ridgeline buyers long-term peace of mind. From its resale value to lower-than-average maintenance needs, the Ridgeline proves to be a solid investment.

While the Maverick wins on base price—thanks to its compact size and hybrid option—the Ridgeline gives you more of what you need for the long haul, especially if you use your truck for both work and family life.

Ready to upgrade? Check your trade-in value and financing options at Firelands Honda Sandusky.

The Verdict: Which Truck Is Right for You?

Choose the 2025 Honda Ridgeline if you want:
✅ Stronger V6 engine and standard AWD
✅ Larger, more functional bed with in-bed trunk
✅ Smoother, quieter ride with SUV-level comfort
✅ Advanced safety and real-world utility for Ohio conditions

Choose the Ford Maverick if you prefer:
✅ Budget-friendly pricing
✅ Compact size and hybrid fuel economy
✅ Simple city driving and light hauling

But if you're serious about combining work capability, weekend adventure readiness, and all-weather reliability, the Honda Ridgeline is the right choice.

Why Buy from Firelands Honda Sandusky?

At Firelands Honda Sandusky, we go beyond the transaction. Our local experts understand what Ohio drivers need from their trucks—and we help match you with the Ridgeline that best fits your life. Whether you're hauling drywall in Bellevue or heading out for a weekend camping trip near Huron, we’ve got you covered.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Trusted team with decades of experience
• Transparent pricing and financing
• Certified technicians for Ridgeline service and repairs
• Conveniently located near Elyria, Clyde, and Norwalk

 

Stop by for a test drive or explore new and used Ridgeline models online today.

Firelands Honda Sandusky — The Smarter Way to Truck in Ohio.