Review by Veeno Dewan
The 2024 Ford Maverick pickup truck slots just below the mid-size Ford Ranger, and has an advantage being also available as a full-hybrid – as well as a conventional gas-powered version. The Maverick is based on the same platform as the Ford Bronco Sport and Ford Escape and arrives as a four-door, five-passenger crew cab, with a 4-foot-5 bed.
The Maverick’s hybrid powertrain is, combines a 2.5L Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with a hybrid system that delivers a combined 191 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque. It’s mated to an automatic continuously variable transmission (CVT) and is strictly front-wheel drive. The optional engine choice is a ga engined turbocharged 2.0L “EcoBoost” four-cylinder making 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, with eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
The 2024 Ford Maverick now sees the top-trim Lariat as a hybrid with new as standard features that include a spray-in bedliner, wireless charger, navigation, heated steering wheel, and driver-assist safety features. Also for 2024 is the Tremor package that adds 4X4 capability.
The 2024 Ford Maverick with gasoline engine and AWD starts at $32,600 in the XL; $35,700 for the XLT; and $43,500 for the Lariat. The hybrid option adds $500 to the price. Delivery is $2,095 extra. Towing capacity for the hybrid is 907 kg (2,000 lb),
The as tested Lariat Hybrid is the top tier trim, adding standard equipment like 18-inch wheels, LED signature lighting, body-color door handles and mirror caps, and additional in-bed cubby storage. The Lariat includes Intelligent Access with push-button start. This system uses a proximity key fob, which allows unlocking the doors by touching the handle. The price for our tester as $44,000 plus options and delivery for a total price of $49,515.
Creature comforts include dual-zone automatic climate control, ambient interior lighting, rear-seat dual USB ports, an acoustic windshield, a power sliding rear window, ActiveX upholstery, and an 8-way power driver’s seat. A 6.5-inch productivity screen is also standard. In addition to the packages already mentioned, the Lariat Luxury Package adds an 8-speaker B&O audio system, a 400W/110V inverter with outlets in the cab and bed, heated seats, heated side mirrors, a heated steering wheel, and LED box lighting. The Black appearance package as added to our tester was $2,000, along with 18-inch machined wheels. Also added ws the Luxury Package also brings voice-activated navigation, the Sync 3 infotainment system featuring an 8-inch touchscreen with swipe capability, SiriusXM satellite radio, a wireless charging pad, windshield wiper de-icers, a trailer hitch, and a full-size spare tire.
Also included is The Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist Package adding adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go and lane centering, evasive steering assist, are rear parking sensors. Standard safety assist items include emergency front braking, automatic high-beam headlights, and a back-up camera. Extra safety packages include items such as: blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, and hill descent control.
Interior wise- a lot of thought has gone into giving the Maverick a practical versatile interior designed for maximum functionality. Nice touches include larger water bottle holders in the door panels, a phone holder in the centre console; and plenty of storage cubbyholes, plus a wireless phone recharging pad. The Maverick’s interior has rugged styling cues, with some cool use of colour and texture. The rear seats flip up for extra cargo storage. Overall interior room is good, with comfortable seats and adequate leg room in the rear.
On the road, the Maverick Hybrid ride offers a smooth and composed. Feeling. The steering is nicely weighted and, and the vehicle is responsive on acceleration and holds it own on the highway offering satisfyingly strong, linear power delivery. The switch from gas to electric is almost seamless. The Maverick Hybrid handles a variety of surfaces very well thanks to its well sorted suspension and dampers. Large bumps are soaked up compliantly while body roll is muted. The truck feels solid and durable.
The Maverick Hybrid’s fuel economy is officially rated by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) at 5.6 L/100 km in the city, 7.1 on the highway, and 6.3 combined. If you op for the non-hybrid 2.0L, it’s rated at 9.6 L/100 km in combined driving.
To sum up, the Maverick is very impressive and is nice to drive. The smart interior, good road manners, compact size and the fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain portion are all plus points. For buyers wanting a well priced fuel frugal small truck – walk this way!
2024 Ford Maverick Hybrid Lariat: priced from $44,000, plus options, destination, and delivery. Price as tested $49,515.
More info at www.ford.ca
