Observations From A New Maverick And First-Time Hybrid Owner

[athertonbt]

Oh wow, I am LOVING the color! I gave my wife her choice of colors and when she chose the one color I had doubts about (CO), I tried to talk her out of it. And man am I glad she stuck to her guns. Seeing that sunny glow over the steering wheel when I get in never fails to bring a smile to my face!

I'm not that brave, but 100% support the non-boring color choice...way to go for it! This truck would be hugely popular here in East Tennessee, as anything remotely close to 'Volunteer Orange' gets snatched up immediately.

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[rognus]

I can echo the OP's sentiments! My 1st tank showed 39.7 manually calculated and the onboard computer. Spot on! I simply love going some place now . The eCVT is amazing, and freeway onramps are absolutely no problem. Passing is astounding. My driving is usually about half and half, since I live about 7 miles from town ( all freeway). By the way, 1st time I was even in a hybrid was when I drove mine off the lot! I didn't even know how far I was supposed to turn the key
Anyone still waiting, it's worth the wait!!

 

[Wlbrn61]

I've had my new hybrid Maverick XLT for just over a week now. And I thought some might appreciate my thoughts as a first time hybrid owner. Actually, this is the first time I've ever driven a hybrid or even rode in one for that matter. Buying one was essentially a leap of faith for that reason, so I spent a great deal of time during the wait scouring this and other forums for other owners takes on the subject. So it is with great pleasure that I am now able to provide my own take, as well as address some specific complaints and issues others have described.

First off, I just have to say that I am completely, totally satisfied with my new truck. If you are looking for criticism, you won't get any from me. The Maverick has exceeded my expectations in every way. Ride and handling, fit and finish, comfort and performance, appearance and ergonomics....10's across the board. The only negative at any point was my buying experience at the dealer. No markups thankfully, and they surprisingly didn't even attempt to sell me any "protection" packages, or extended warranties...but they made up for that by totally hosing me on my trade-in. They low balled me at the get go, and wouldn't budge a nickel. When we began "negotiating", it immediately dawned on me that I had zero bargaining power in the matter. I couldn't threaten to walk away....we both knew they could just turn around and sell it off the lot for a five grand markup in about two seconds. Oh well, live and learn. Don't trade...sell it yourself!

At any rate, I am now completely sold on the hybrid system. Well this one, anyway. I just can't get over how silky smooth everything is. The transitions are totally seamless, and performance is impressive. This truck is quick! I have driven a coworker's Eco boost, and the difference is negligible between the two in day-to-day driving. Yes, the eco feels a bit peppier off the line, but I can't imagine giving up such a huge fuel economy advantage for that. (I drive almost entirely in the city...) And though the eight speed transmission is unquestionably smooth and I like it, it doesn't lay a glove on the hybrid in that department.

I wondered if I might miss the "feel" of a traditional transmission, but I find it crazy cool how the ECVT functions in coordination with the ICE. I love how the engine ramps right up to its "sweet spot" and locks it there, while the truck accelerates quickly and evenly all the way up the line. Man, that's gotta be a big advantage for engine life. I doubt you could even approach the engine's red line unless you take it to maximum speed. I'm just really impressed how the thing gets up and goes so willingly at such a moderate RPM. No wonder they don't bother with a tachometer. Hybrids rock!

I'll have to wait to give my take on fuel economy. The display has indicated anywhere between 31 and 58 MPG on various trips, but I've heard the onboard systems take a while to calibrate, so I'll check it manually at the first fill up, and then I can say for sure. But it is certainly going a LONG way on one tank. I'll say that much.

People have remarked on the "spongy" brake pedal supposedly inherent with hybrids, but I gotta say I don't feel it. Maybe it's because my old car was indeed an "old car", and had a mushy pedal for other reasons....but these brakes feel just like any other to me. No "getting used to" period at all.

I've heard people complain the rear-view mirror is too small, or even "useless"...but as with the brakes, it seems like any other to me. No problems with visibility noted.

The rear-view camera works just fine, even at night. It's possible if I had experience with a better one, I might feel differently...but this is my first.

The base speakers sound just fine. But then, I don't get in the car for a concert experience.

Android Auto operates as advertised. I haven't experienced any freezes or hiccups at all...but then it's early days.

The remote start function has so far worked perfectly. I've used it every morning even if it isn't that cold just to check. No strange behaviors or unpleasant odors noted.

No fit and finish problems at all. There was one minor scuff on the front bumper from shipping. The dealership itself pointed this out and will correct.

The interior is really nice as far as I'm concerned. People gripe about the "cheap" hard plastics, but it looks great to me. Visually appealing and looks like it should be easy to clean. Easy to scratch? Could be, but as I don't typically carry a bunch of screaming kids or toss bricks around in there, I seriously doubt it'll be a problem. Seats are very comfortable with good support and nice looking and feeling fabric.

Lastly, I've heard it said that ride quality is harsh in the hybrid. But then I've also heard some say they love the hybrid's ride and wonder what its "secret sauce" might be. Unless there actually are huge differences between vehicles that are supposed to be the same, I put that down to individual preference or bias. In my case I find the ride and handling perfectly smooth and enjoyable. Takes bumps like a champ and navigates rough roads with ease. But then I drive a Super Duty on a daily basis at work, so take that as you will. "Numb" steering? What's that? It goes where I point it and turns with ease, and that's all I ask.

Well, that's all that comes to mind. I honestly don't have a single complaint at this point. The Maverick is everything I had hoped it would be and more. In fact, I can say that so far it is the most satisfying new vehicle I have ever purchased....and there have been quite a few over the years. Could my estimation change? Sure....but so far, so good. So VERY good!

Thanks for the input, can.t wait for mine to arrive!

 

[MLA62563]

I can echo the OP's sentiments! My 1st tank showed 39.7 manually calculated and the onboard computer. Spot on! I simply love going some place now . The eCVT is amazing, and freeway onramps are absolutely no problem. Passing is astounding. My driving is usually about half and half, since I live about 7 miles from town ( all freeway). By the way, 1st time I was even in a hybrid was when I drove mine off the lot! I didn't even know how far I was supposed to turn the key
Anyone still waiting, it's worth the wait!!

I'm really pleased to hear you and so many other people confirm what I suspected all along. That Ford has satisfied FAR more customers than they've disappointed with this wonderful truck.
I mean I get that unrealistic expectations can lead to a let down, but for crying out loud...just exactly WHAT were some people expecting? All the negativity I've been hearing had me keeping a tight lid on my own expectations. But after the first drive home, it was obvious that I could have gone in expecting the moon and walked away satisfied. Go figure...

 

[Geo_tonz]

Thanks for the great review. I haven't had a new vehicle since 2010 and I'm sure it will impress me. The Hyundai Ionic5 I test drove the other day sure did! I tend to drive them 'till I own them, then 'till it starts costing for fixes. Guess that makes me more easily impressed by new! The not staying in Eco Mode thing others have reported is kind of annoying. Hopefully there is an update for that down the road! Yes trade in at the dealer is painful. A few years back we almost pulled the trigger on a new VW. They insisted on calculating a trade in even though I really didn't want to and offered $800 on a vehicle that was worth about $4k at the time. Walked out. They didn't really have a model I was in love with any how. I'm just an (old) VW nut and I was just feeling like I should update from my 2010 Mazda 5 (that's been awesome incidentally). Promised myself I would never let myself be insulted by the dealer again by a trade in offer!

 

[BoboysTruck]

Awesome review and I agree with you. My Maverick is my first hybrid as well and like you guys, ordered it sight unseen. No problems so far EXCEPT, my dealer installed hard trifold tonneau cover is not completely water right. Lane keeping takes some getting used to. It forces you to signal every time you change lane or it will fight you. Auto hold is nice too and I gotta get used to it. I keep forgetting I don't have to have my foot on the brake pedal at the traffic light waiting for it to turn green.
I'm loving my consistent 42ish MPG esp with gas prices going up.

 

[MLA62563]

Awesome review and I agree with you. My Maverick is my first hybrid as well and like you guys, ordered it sight unseen. No problems so far EXCEPT, my dealer installed hard trifold tonneau cover is not completely water right. Lane keeping takes some getting used to. It forces you to signal every time you change lane or it will fight you. Auto hold is nice too and I gotta get used to it. I keep forgetting I don't have to have my foot on the brake pedal at the traffic light waiting for it to turn green.
I'm loving my consistent 42ish MPG esp with gas prices going up.

A shame about your tonneau cover. I hope the dealer makes it right for you.
I haven't really experimented much with the CP360 stuff....I guess I need to get with the program.
But I do love the auto hold. Great feature!

 

[leap3535]

Thanks so much for that review! That's exactly what I wanted- someone who's never been in a hybrid and is easygoing about what they expect in a car- sounds like I'm going to LOVE IT!

 

[Jimmy C531]

I've had my new hybrid Maverick XLT for just over a week now. And I thought some might appreciate my thoughts as a first time hybrid owner. Actually, this is the first time I've ever driven a hybrid or even rode in one for that matter. Buying one was essentially a leap of faith for that reason, so I spent a great deal of time during the wait scouring this and other forums for other owners takes on the subject. So it is with great pleasure that I am now able to provide my own take, as well as address some specific complaints and issues others have described.

First off, I just have to say that I am completely, totally satisfied with my new truck. If you are looking for criticism, you won't get any from me. The Maverick has exceeded my expectations in every way. Ride and handling, fit and finish, comfort and performance, appearance and ergonomics....10's across the board. The only negative at any point was my buying experience at the dealer. No markups thankfully, and they surprisingly didn't even attempt to sell me any "protection" packages, or extended warranties...but they made up for that by totally hosing me on my trade-in. They low balled me at the get go, and wouldn't budge a nickel. When we began "negotiating", it immediately dawned on me that I had zero bargaining power in the matter. I couldn't threaten to walk away....we both knew they could just turn around and sell it off the lot for a five grand markup in about two seconds. Oh well, live and learn. Don't trade...sell it yourself!

At any rate, I am now completely sold on the hybrid system. Well this one, anyway. I just can't get over how silky smooth everything is. The transitions are totally seamless, and performance is impressive. This truck is quick! I have driven a coworker's Eco boost, and the difference is negligible between the two in day-to-day driving. Yes, the eco feels a bit peppier off the line, but I can't imagine giving up such a huge fuel economy advantage for that. (I drive almost entirely in the city...) And though the eight speed transmission is unquestionably smooth and I like it, it doesn't lay a glove on the hybrid in that department.

I wondered if I might miss the "feel" of a traditional transmission, but I find it crazy cool how the ECVT functions in coordination with the ICE. I love how the engine ramps right up to its "sweet spot" and locks it there, while the truck accelerates quickly and evenly all the way up the line. Man, that's gotta be a big advantage for engine life. I doubt you could even approach the engine's red line unless you take it to maximum speed. I'm just really impressed how the thing gets up and goes so willingly at such a moderate RPM. No wonder they don't bother with a tachometer. Hybrids rock!

I'll have to wait to give my take on fuel economy. The display has indicated anywhere between 31 and 58 MPG on various trips, but I've heard the onboard systems take a while to calibrate, so I'll check it manually at the first fill up, and then I can say for sure. But it is certainly going a LONG way on one tank. I'll say that much.

People have remarked on the "spongy" brake pedal supposedly inherent with hybrids, but I gotta say I don't feel it. Maybe it's because my old car was indeed an "old car", and had a mushy pedal for other reasons....but these brakes feel just like any other to me. No "getting used to" period at all.

I've heard people complain the rear-view mirror is too small, or even "useless"...but as with the brakes, it seems like any other to me. No problems with visibility noted.

The rear-view camera works just fine, even at night. It's possible if I had experience with a better one, I might feel differently...but this is my first.

The base speakers sound just fine. But then, I don't get in the car for a concert experience.

Android Auto operates as advertised. I haven't experienced any freezes or hiccups at all...but then it's early days.

The remote start function has so far worked perfectly. I've used it every morning even if it isn't that cold just to check. No strange behaviors or unpleasant odors noted.

No fit and finish problems at all. There was one minor scuff on the front bumper from shipping. The dealership itself pointed this out and will correct.

The interior is really nice as far as I'm concerned. People gripe about the "cheap" hard plastics, but it looks great to me. Visually appealing and looks like it should be easy to clean. Easy to scratch? Could be, but as I don't typically carry a bunch of screaming kids or toss bricks around in there, I seriously doubt it'll be a problem. Seats are very comfortable with good support and nice looking and feeling fabric.

Lastly, I've heard it said that ride quality is harsh in the hybrid. But then I've also heard some say they love the hybrid's ride and wonder what its "secret sauce" might be. Unless there actually are huge differences between vehicles that are supposed to be the same, I put that down to individual preference or bias. In my case I find the ride and handling perfectly smooth and enjoyable. Takes bumps like a champ and navigates rough roads with ease. But then I drive a Super Duty on a daily basis at work, so take that as you will. "Numb" steering? What's that? It goes where I point it and turns with ease, and that's all I ask.

Well, that's all that comes to mind. I honestly don't have a single complaint at this point. The Maverick is everything I had hoped it would be and more. In fact, I can say that so far it is the most satisfying new vehicle I have ever purchased....and there have been quite a few over the years. Could my estimation change? Sure....but so far, so good. So VERY good!

I have to agree with this owner I got mine on Jan 6 and immediately the dealer added a 5K dealership fee without any fine print explanation of what it was for I objected to it but didn't have much bargaining power as they had the truck and if I walked away I waited for nothing. They came back and with taxes, tag, title I got tinted windows and a spray in bed for about 3k including different in price of my trade in and new Maverick XLT Hybrid. As far as the new truck I love it and it's exceeded my expectations. The ride, style, fuel savings and overall product it was well worth the wait.

 

[brnpttmn]

I have to agree with this owner I got mine on Jan 6 and immediately the dealer added a 5K dealership fee without any fine print explanation of what it was for I objected to it but didn't have much bargaining power as they had the truck and if I walked away I waited for nothing. They came back and with taxes, tag, title I got tinted windows and a spray in bed for about 3k including different in price of my trade in and new Maverick XLT Hybrid. As far as the new truck I love it and it's exceeded my expectations. The ride, style, fuel savings and overall product it was well worth the wait.

Was it dealer stock, or had you custom ordered it? If you ordered it, contact Ford. They want to know about dealerships marking up custom orders.

 

[Sandra Green]

Your build is nearly identical to what I ordered! Lucky.

I ordered my XLT LUX On June 29th it was built on Jan 8th and
delivered on Jan 31st . Cyber orange - love this color - sold my trade in for $2,000 more than the dealer wanted to give me. I have only driven 119 miles so far but have gotten 52 mpg.
1 22nd

I'm with you, My complaints are minimal.
The biggest gripe is that it won't stay in ECO mode and always reverts to normal. 1000 miles in and despite the really cold weather (excess ICE use for heat) I'm still getting 35mpg- Hand calculated.

I ordered my XLT LUX On June 29th - it got built on Jan 8th - delivered on Jan 31st. Cyber Orange - love this color .
I have only driven 119 miles so far - but I am getting 52 mpg.Very happy with this.I got the all weather mats - so in the package with the carpeted mats is a wire that I have no idea what it is - can anybody help me out?

 

[Tourguide]

I've had my new hybrid Maverick XLT for just over a week now. And I thought some might appreciate my thoughts as a first time hybrid owner. Actually, this is the first time I've ever driven a hybrid or even rode in one for that matter. Buying one was essentially a leap of faith for that reason, so I spent a great deal of time during the wait scouring this and other forums for other owners takes on the subject. So it is with great pleasure that I am now able to provide my own take, as well as address some specific complaints and issues others have described.

First off, I just have to say that I am completely, totally satisfied with my new truck. If you are looking for criticism, you won't get any from me. The Maverick has exceeded my expectations in every way. Ride and handling, fit and finish, comfort and performance, appearance and ergonomics....10's across the board. The only negative at any point was my buying experience at the dealer. No markups thankfully, and they surprisingly didn't even attempt to sell me any "protection" packages, or extended warranties...but they made up for that by totally hosing me on my trade-in. They low balled me at the get go, and wouldn't budge a nickel. When we began "negotiating", it immediately dawned on me that I had zero bargaining power in the matter. I couldn't threaten to walk away....we both knew they could just turn around and sell it off the lot for a five grand markup in about two seconds. Oh well, live and learn. Don't trade...sell it yourself!

At any rate, I am now completely sold on the hybrid system. Well this one, anyway. I just can't get over how silky smooth everything is. The transitions are totally seamless, and performance is impressive. This truck is quick! I have driven a coworker's Eco boost, and the difference is negligible between the two in day-to-day driving. Yes, the eco feels a bit peppier off the line, but I can't imagine giving up such a huge fuel economy advantage for that. (I drive almost entirely in the city...) And though the eight speed transmission is unquestionably smooth and I like it, it doesn't lay a glove on the hybrid in that department.

I wondered if I might miss the "feel" of a traditional transmission, but I find it crazy cool how the ECVT functions in coordination with the ICE. I love how the engine ramps right up to its "sweet spot" and locks it there, while the truck accelerates quickly and evenly all the way up the line. Man, that's gotta be a big advantage for engine life. I doubt you could even approach the engine's red line unless you take it to maximum speed. I'm just really impressed how the thing gets up and goes so willingly at such a moderate RPM. No wonder they don't bother with a tachometer. Hybrids rock!

I'll have to wait to give my take on fuel economy. The display has indicated anywhere between 31 and 58 MPG on various trips, but I've heard the onboard systems take a while to calibrate, so I'll check it manually at the first fill up, and then I can say for sure. But it is certainly going a LONG way on one tank. I'll say that much.

People have remarked on the "spongy" brake pedal supposedly inherent with hybrids, but I gotta say I don't feel it. Maybe it's because my old car was indeed an "old car", and had a mushy pedal for other reasons....but these brakes feel just like any other to me. No "getting used to" period at all.

I've heard people complain the rear-view mirror is too small, or even "useless"...but as with the brakes, it seems like any other to me. No problems with visibility noted.

The rear-view camera works just fine, even at night. It's possible if I had experience with a better one, I might feel differently...but this is my first.

The base speakers sound just fine. But then, I don't get in the car for a concert experience.

Android Auto operates as advertised. I haven't experienced any freezes or hiccups at all...but then it's early days.

The remote start function has so far worked perfectly. I've used it every morning even if it isn't that cold just to check. No strange behaviors or unpleasant odors noted.

No fit and finish problems at all. There was one minor scuff on the front bumper from shipping. The dealership itself pointed this out and will correct.

The interior is really nice as far as I'm concerned. People gripe about the "cheap" hard plastics, but it looks great to me. Visually appealing and looks like it should be easy to clean. Easy to scratch? Could be, but as I don't typically carry a bunch of screaming kids or toss bricks around in there, I seriously doubt it'll be a problem. Seats are very comfortable with good support and nice looking and feeling fabric.

Lastly, I've heard it said that ride quality is harsh in the hybrid. But then I've also heard some say they love the hybrid's ride and wonder what its "secret sauce" might be. Unless there actually are huge differences between vehicles that are supposed to be the same, I put that down to individual preference or bias. In my case I find the ride and handling perfectly smooth and enjoyable. Takes bumps like a champ and navigates rough roads with ease. But then I drive a Super Duty on a daily basis at work, so take that as you will. "Numb" steering? What's that? It goes where I point it and turns with ease, and that's all I ask.

Well, that's all that comes to mind. I honestly don't have a single complaint at this point. The Maverick is everything I had hoped it would be and more. In fact, I can say that so far it is the most satisfying new vehicle I have ever purchased....and there have been quite a few over the years. Could my estimation change? Sure....but so far, so good. So VERY good!

Thank you for the report. I'm sure that I will be just as satisfied as you.
Waiting on my RR First Edition Lariat Hybrid. Receive notification from Ford that mine went to production on February 10th.

 

[MLA62563]

I ordered my XLT LUX On June 29th it was built on Jan 8th and
delivered on Jan 31st . Cyber orange - love this color - sold my trade in for $2,000 more than the dealer wanted to give me. I have only driven 119 miles so far but have gotten 52 mpg.
1 22nd

I ordered my XLT LUX On June 29th - it got built on Jan 8th - delivered on Jan 31st. Cyber Orange - love this color .
I have only driven 119 miles so far - but I am getting 52 mpg.Very happy with this.I got the all weather mats - so in the package with the carpeted mats is a wire that I have no idea what it is - can anybody help me out?

Yeah, Cyber Orange is a killer color for sure.
Pretty sure that wire is for connecting to the 12 volt access points in the bed.

 

[FirsttimeFord]

Thank you for your report. I am patiently waiting for my hybrid!

Just wondering how long the wait was for you from dealer order to finally getting it. I missed out on the 2022 apparently, but ordered from the dealer in hopes to get one in 2023 but still no confirmation yet....congrats on your purchase and thanks for the insight.

 

[MLA62563]

Just wondering how long the wait was for you from dealer order to finally getting it. I missed out on the 2022 apparently, but ordered from the dealer in hopes to get one in 2023 but still no confirmation yet....congrats on your purchase and thanks for the insight.

It was seven months between the original order and delivery. Though some of the wait was due to the EPA hybrid delay. Hopefully the situation will improve going forward. Good luck!

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