HOT-SELLING FORD MAVERICK TRUCK IS A TRENDSETTER!

By NITISH S. RELE – motoringflorida@gmail.com

Inarguably, it is our favorite compact pickup. Last year’s Ford Maverick left a lasting impression on us because of its value, price and fuel economy. Ever since its debut in 2022, the first full hybrid small truck in the U.S. has sold like hot cakes. While over 94,000 units made it out of dealer showrooms in 2023, last year’s figures were an astounding 131,142! We wouldn’t be surprised if 2025 turns out to be another banner year. As gas prices continue to hover over $3, the Maverick with its fuel-sipping 37 mpg, pleasant cabin and economical tab is a no-brainer.

Once again, under the hood of the unibody structure sits a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder engine developing a total of 191 horsepower @ 5600 rpm and 155 pounds-feet of torque @ 4000 rpm. It is aided by a 94 kW electric motor mated to a 11.1-volt kWh lithium-ion battery, responsible for 29 hp. Getting power to the ground is a quiet, quick and refined continuous variable transmission. Want to save even more fuel, especially in the city? Push eco from normal, sport, slippery and tow/haul modes. That reminds us: you can now haul 4,000 pounds instead of the prior $2,000 with the $745 tow package option. A hybrid all-wheel-drive version is a fresh choice for 2025.

Up front, the black mesh grille and body-color bumper get a refresh, as well as new wheel designs. Vertical tail lamps, MAVERICK in all caps and a single exhaust tip take up the rear. The cabin conveys a simple and straightforward layout with an 8-inch driver information center and a rotary gear dial in place of the traditional shifter knob. A mammoth 13.2-inch infotainment screen replaces the previous small display. The 4.5-foot-long bed can accommodate up to 18 sheets of 4-by-8-foot, ¾-inch plywood. Or a sofa for that matter. And yes, there’s a 120-volt power outlet too. Passenger volume is a praiseworthy 100.3 cubic feet with cubbies and crannies everywhere. Also, standard are manual single a/c and tilt/telescopic steering wheel, cruise control, second-row bench with under seat bin, cloth seats, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. We suggest the $1,890 XLT luxury package of eight-way power driver seat, heated front seats/mirrors, remote start and soft vinyl-wrapped steering wheel.

Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag, driver knee airbag, electronic stability and Advance trac controls, regenerative braking, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights are standard. The Co-Pilot 360 package will get you pre-collision assist with auto emergency brakes, blind spot monitor with cross-traffic alert, lane-keep, rearview camera and auto high-beam headlamps.

As average vehicle prices continue to break records, this easier-on-the-wallet small truck from Ford delivers a composed but lively and civilized ride. No wonder its namesake makes perfect sense!

MAVERICK XLT (FWD, 4X4)

Tires: P225/65R17

Wheelbase: 121.1 inches

Length: 199.8 inches

Width: 72.6 inches

Height: 68.7 inches

Suspension: MacPherson strut front, twist beam rear

Steering: electric power

Weight: 3,674 pounds

Fuel capacity: 13.8 gallons

City: 40 mpg

Highway: 34 mpg

Base price: $28,895

Price as tested: $37,250

Web site: www.ford.com