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Ford Maverick Hybrid

Cheap, practical hybrid pickup.

By Shahzad KhanPublished 5 months ago 3 min read

Ford Maverick Hybrid Front View

The Ford Maverick Hybrid is redefining what a pickup truck can be—combining affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality in a way no other truck does. With a starting price under $25,000, it’s the most budget-friendly hybrid pickup on the market, making it an ideal choice for cost-conscious buyers who still want versatility. Whether you're a city commuter, a weekend DIYer, or a small business owner, the Maverick Hybrid delivers real-world utility without the usual truck compromises.

Compact Yet Functional Exterior

Unlike traditional body-on-frame trucks, the Maverick Hybrid uses a unibody platform (shared with the Ford Escape), giving it a smoother, more car-like ride. Measuring just 199.7 inches long, it’s easy to maneuver in tight city streets and parking lots. Yet, it doesn’t sacrifice functionality—the 4.5-foot bed comes with Ford’s FLEXBED system, featuring built-in tie-downs, 12V power outlets, and even DIY-friendly storage solutions. Need to haul plywood or bikes? The Maverick’s tailgate can support up to 500 lbs, making it surprisingly capable for its size.ford maverick hybrid front view.

Hybrid Powertrain: Efficiency Without Sacrifice

The heart of the Maverick Hybrid is its 2.5L four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined 191 horsepower. While it won’t win drag races, it excels where it counts—fuel economy. With an EPA-estimated 42 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, it’s one of the most efficient trucks ever sold in the U.S. Unlike many hybrids, it runs on regular unleaded gas, keeping running costs low.

For those who need more power, the optional 2.0L EcoBoost turbocharged engine (non-hybrid) offers 250 hp and 4,000 lbs of towing, but the hybrid remains the smart choice for daily commuting and light hauling.

Interior: Smart, Spacious, and Tech-Friendly

Inside, the Maverick Hybrid feels more like a well-equipped crossover than a barebones work truck. Key features include:

  • SYNC 3 infotainment with an 8-inch touchscreen
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto (on higher trims)
  • Comfortable seating for five, with surprising rear legroom
  • Durable, easy-to-clean materials, including available washable rubberized flooring

While it’s not luxury-grade, the cabin is well thought-out, with plenty of storage cubbies, USB ports, and even available B&O premium audio for music lovers.

Towing and Payload: Small but Mighty

The hybrid Maverick isn’t built for heavy-duty towing, but it’s more capable than you might think:

  • 1,500 lbs max towing (enough for small trailers, jet skis, or motorcycles)
  • 1,500 lbs payload capacity (great for mulch, tools, or camping gear)

If you need more muscle, the EcoBoost model doubles the towing capacity, but for most urban and suburban needs, the hybrid’s efficiency outweighs the trade-offs.

On the Road: Smooth and Nimble

Behind the wheel, the Maverick Hybrid feels light and agile, thanks to its car-based platform. The CVT transmission ensures smooth power delivery, while the hybrid system provides instant electric torque for quick starts in stop-and-go traffic. The ride is comfortable, with well-tuned suspension that absorbs bumps better than traditional trucks.

One downside? The hybrid model is front-wheel-drive only—if you need AWD, you’ll have to opt for the gas-powered EcoBoost version.

Pricing and Trims: Unbeatable Value

Ford offers the Maverick Hybrid in three trims:

  1. XL (Starting at $24,995) – Basic but well-equipped, with a standard hybrid engine, 8-inch touchscreen, and key safety features.
  1. XLT (~$26,500) – Adds nicer interior materials, power mirrors, and more customization options.
  1. Lariat (~$32,000) – Ups the luxury with leather seats, a premium sound system, and advanced tech.

Even fully loaded, the Maverick Hybrid undercuts rivals like the Toyota Tacoma Hybrid and Honda Ridgeline by thousands, making it a no-brainer for budget-minded buyers.

Pros and Cons: Is It Right for You?

✔ Why You’ll Love It:

  • Best-in-class fuel economy for a pickup
  • Cheapest hybrid truck on the market
  • Smart storage solutions (FLEXBED, cabin storage)
  • Comfortable, tech-friendly interior

✖ Potential Drawbacks:

  • No AWD option with the hybrid
  • Limited towing compared to gas models
  • Some cheap interior plastics in base trims

Best for: City dwellers, eco-conscious drivers, small business owners, and anyone who wants a practical, fuel-efficient vehicle with occasional truck utility.

Final Verdict: A Truck for the Real World

The Ford Maverick Hybrid isn’t just a cheap truck—it’s a smart, efficient, and versatile vehicle that fits modern lifestyles. It proves that you don’t need a huge, gas-guzzling rig to enjoy pickup utility. Whether you’re hauling mulch from the hardware store, commuting to work, or taking a weekend road trip, the Maverick Hybrid delivers where it counts—without breaking the bank.

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About the Creator

Shahzad Khan

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