With Detroit becoming an outdoor event in September and New York rescheduled for August, the 2021 Chicago Auto Show marks the long-awaited return of US auto shows after all three were canceled last year due to the pandemic.

One of the star cars at this year's event was the auto show debut of the 2022 Ford Maverick. Technically, the Maverick made its public debut at the 2021 Barrett-Jackson Las Vegas auction, but for many people, this will be the first time seeing Ford's new compact pickup in the metal.

Measuring 199.7 inches long and 72.6 inches wide with a 121.1-inch wheelbase, the Maverick is Ford's smallest pickup, slotting below the Ranger.

The model on display at the show is based on the range-topping Lariat trim, which includes leather upholstery, an eight-way power driver's seat, and a six-way passenger seat as standard. Finished in Rapid Red, the show truck is also equipped with the First Edition Package.

This optional $1,495 package adds unique decals for the hood and lower doors, along with a high gloss black roof, body-color door handles, black skull mirror caps, and a soft-folding tonneau cover. It's worth noting, however, that the First Edition Package also requires you to add the Luxury Package and Ford Co-Pilot360, which increases the price. It's also only available for AWD variants with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, which is rated at 250 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque.

Ford also offers an electrified 2.5-liter four-cylinder unit producing 191 hp and 155 lb-ft of torque. All trims are equipped with an eight-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support as standard. Pricing for the Ford Maverick starts at $19,995, but the Lariat variant on display at the show will set you back at least $25,490. Tick all the available options and a fully loaded Maverick can cost over $40,000.

Since it debuted last month, Ford secured 36,000 reservations for the Maverick in just one week. After seeing it in person at the Chicago Auto Show, we suspect a lot more people will be placing an order.