In Wheel Time

from Bay Area Houston Magazine July 2022

by Bay Group Media

Cover Story

FORD MAVERICK

The Bay Area’s Newest TRUCKS

By Don Armstrong

INTERIOR OF THE FORD MAVERICK

TOYOTA TUNDRA

Trucks are the hottest transportation commodity around the Bay Area and when all-new ones become available, we line-up to get one. This month, we look at an all-new midsize from Ford and a complete redesign from Toyota.

FORD MAVERICK

Older readers may remember the original Maverick, a long-gone import fighter from the 1970’s. The only thing used from the old Maverick is the name and it is a fitting moniker for Ford’s all-new, smallish pickup. Don’t mistake its lesser capability with bigger brothers Ranger and F-150, the Maverick is based on Ford’s Escape and Bronco Sport, so towing and hauling numbers are notably diminished

The exterior is a clean design with minimal embellishments, oversized headlamps, and proportioned grill. Wheels vary depending on the trim level you choose, XL, XLT and Lariat. Power comes from one of two, 4-cylinder engines – the turbo model delivers 250 horsepower and gets an average of 25 MPG. A hybrid model is on the way.

The interior is all Ford and the Maverick’s optional big screen infotainment system that holds the Sync system works great. Seating is comfortable and has a bit of work truck swagger to it.

Unloaded, the ride may feel a little stiff, but it handles well and parking it is a snap. Pricing starts at $19,995.

TOYOTA TUNDRA

In today’s auto industry, building the same vehicle for 14 years without a redesign is unheard of. But that’s what Toyota did with its outgoing Tundra, without guilt.

Welcome the all-new Tundra for 2022, making tired eyes brighten after looking so long at the old model. Its exterior is refreshing with an oversized grille and high mounted headlights. Wheel openings give the illusion of having extensions and rear taillights are exclusively Toyota.

Big news under the hood; a V-8 is no longer available. Instead, the new Tundra lineup offers two V-6’s, a hybrid and a turbo model, the later whirrs out a respectable 389-horsepower. Combined, mileage is touted at 20-MPG and towing is up to 8,300-lb’s

The interior is also part of this truck’s revamp and includes an optional 14-inch touch screen that is easy to use and includes Apple Car Play and Android Auto.

There are six trim levels from which to choose, but you deserve to grab one of the upper trims. Tundra begins at $38,000. The one you want is about 60K.