The front end has been redesigned and the suspension is raised.
Although the 2022 Ford Maverick has just been released, it seems that the Blue Oval already plans for the future of the model. New spy photos have revealed a camouflaged test vehicle with the wrap covering everything beneath the truck’s greenhouse. The pickup appears to be hiding a modified lower front fascia. However, that’s not all the vehicle has over the standard Maverick.
Our spy photographers believe this pickup may be the Maverick Rattler. It is about an inch higher than what the Maverick FX4 is, which the new model is said to be based on. Although the changes are minor, they do somewhat increase the pickup’s capabilities. For better protection and a better approach angle, the front skid plate bumper was used on the test truck. The rear is unchanged with no visible changes, and the black bumper remains exposed.
In June Ford filed a trademark to protect the Rattler name. This raised questions about the company’s use of the mark. It seems appropriate for the new Maverick. This vehicle could easily be positioned below the larger F150 Raptor, Ford’s offroad portfolio that bears the Rattler name. Ford may find another use or decide to not use the trademark. Although Ford is working on a new Maverick, automakers may file trademarks for names that will never be used.
Rumours suggest that the Maverick Rattler will arrive with a 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine. It produces 250 horsepower (186 kilowatts), and 277 pound feet (239 Newton-meters). An eight-speed automatic gearbox will be paired with the engine. Other off-road-oriented upgrades may not be visible to the public, such as a modified suspension. This is possible due to its higher ride height. Software tweaks could be made to the drive modes and transmission. The debut of the new Maverick Rattler is anticipated for early 2022.