Observations From A New Maverick And First-Time Hybrid Owner

[HughdMan]

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 fleecing 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 want to thank you for that great review!

I've been driving a used 2014 Chevy Volt for the last four years and have been completely sold on the "hybrid experience". I also liked the Ridgeline very much, even the ugly "Flying Buttress" original. When the came out with the latest model I was sold but wanted to wait for a hybrid. So I waited...and waited...

The Maverick is the hybrid Ridgeline I always wanted, but better! It's domestic! I commute 40 miles each way so the Volt goes all the way on just the batteries from March till October. Then when it's cold the lithium batteries lose efficiency. I've been spoiled. I don't but gas for six months. Ford was famous for over estimating the MPG for the CMax so your report of 31 - 58 is great news. I don't have any stop-and-go, but all of mine is in the mountains so I'm hoping to be about mid-point.

Finally- I understand about dealing with a dealer. The Ford dealer hasn't been bad and I told them up front I would not be trading in my 2007 Tacoma (they were sad). I did learn to hate the Chevy dealer who sold me the volt. I am very eager to take delivery of my Maverick. I'm 65 and this is my first new vehicle. I hope my experience is as good as yours!

Thanks!

Sponsored

 

[MLA62563]

Ford says change your synthetic oil every 10k miles. If the manufacturer advises that, and the mechanics suggest that, and there's literally no evidence that it extends the life of modern vehicles, I would feel really ridiculous changing it more often.

I tend to agree. Though it's not really going to matter for me. I typically drive five or six thousand miles a year at best. Though with this great truck I might beat that range through excessive joyriding.

 

[Pugman]

Fantastic review! Thanks for sharing your thoughts completely. I should be receiving my Maverick Lariat Hybrid tomorrow! Coming form a number of VW TDI’s and 2 stellar Toyota Prius and Prius Prime, I am excited to see how this little pickup compares! Enjoy!

 

[timrom2003]

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 fleecing 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!

You didn’t have to trade it in to them. Many dealers are looking for used cars to buy. You could have went around and got the best deal to buy your car then just took that money and used it where you are buying your new Maverick from.

 

[2022EOW]

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.

It’s hard to find a cover that is completely watertight like the cab. I’m glad it fights you when you don’t use a signal because I hate people that don’t use a signal when changing lanes!

 

[FamousAmos]

Jeez, I hate to hear of ANYBODY getting "low-balled" by a dealership on a trade-in. So, I have to pass this along, and you can take it or leave it. My last two cars I sold just after keeping them only a little over a year. On my first one, on a friend's recommendation, I tried CARVANA. I was SHOCKED at what they offered me - ALMOST WHAT I PAID FOR THE CAR!! The same thing happened on my second one (this one), and I am anxiously awaiting my Maverick so that I can accept Carvana's offer.

In a nutshell, there are three prices applicable to used cars:
1. Trade-in. This is always an insultingly low price, bordering on the criminal.
2. Sell-to-a-Friend. What you would hope you could get for the car.
3. Retail. Pie-in-the-sky price that the buyer would hope to resell the car for.

Well, as my cars were less than 2 years old, with less than 2,000 miles on them, I had hoped to get somewhere around the sell-to-a-friend price when I contacted Carvana. In both cases, they offered me NEARLY WHAT I HAD PAID FOR THE CARS.

As this advice is free, you can take it or leave it, as it is no sweat off my back. But, I would urge anyone thinking of selling his/her car, or trading it in, to give Carvana a call. In fact, it isn't even a phone call. Go online, carvana.com, answer 3 questions, and they will give you, almost immediately, an offer on your car, which you have 2 weeks to accept or reject.

Good luck.

 

[BoboysTruck]

It’s hard to find a cover that is completely watertight like the cab. I’m glad it fights you when you don’t use a signal because I hate people that don’t use a signal when changing lanes!

I agree with you but if the car is a mile away behind me or ahead of me or if there's nobody else on the road but you, then not signaling is acceptable to me.

 

[JEMiculka]

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 fleecing 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!

Mahalo

 

[Mister Gabriel]

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 fleecing 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!

Great review, thanks!
Regarding the poor trade in: whatever amount you got under the dealer trade-in value you see in online calculators (plus considering the great market for used cars which should bump that up if they haven't made adjustments lately) that is the amount to add to the sale price to see what they actually got for it.

What would have been interesting is if you told them you got an offer on your car and thus will sell it that way, using the take from the sale toward your purchase at the price they've offered. In theory the price they offered should not depend on trade in. If you had a written offer that should (I think?) lock them into the sale price they offered regardless of the trade in. In this scenario, the objective is that they offer you the "convenience" of just doing it all right then and there, and thus offer you more for the trade in.

When I but I always tell them I'm unsure about trading in (I used to only sell privately, which is a hassle and complicated to coordinate with the new purchase) and work on a price presuming a loan. But alas, that's all water under the Maverick now... Congrats!

 

[Mister Gabriel]

I agree, picked mine up about 3 weeks ago and have had no issues, really like the way it drives. Completely happy. Just gonna have to get used to all the tech. A little different from my 61 Falcon.

Yeah, as I recall the '61 Falcon had a smaller screen.

 

[James L. Harrison]

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!

.

 

[dmcdevitt63]

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 fleecing 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 with you on how you feel about the truck! I will add that nearly 1,000 miles in I am averaging 39 mpg and the includes a fair amount of California Highway mileage that those who have driven here know it’s between 75-80 mph.

 

[TCK]

Thanks for your thoughts. August 1 order, never driven a hybrid…never driven a Maverick. Boy I hope I like it when it they finally build it.
love all the Falcon chat- have had five and built them over the summer to keep myself outta trouble once upon a time.

 

[vap0rtranz]

I've been driving a used 2014 Chevy Volt for the last four years and have been completely sold on the "hybrid experience".

Volt driver here too.

The Mav hybrid is completely different than the Volt hybrid setup. You may already know that but just wanted to be clear: there's no driving 35+miles on battery with the Mav.

I'm also completely sold on PHEVs -- plugin hybrids that have large batteries. Nay sayers say electric cars explode or electric is too expensive. No, Bolts explode not Volts. I've had ZERO issues with my Volt. It just gets up and goes, everyday, for 3 years (2nd owner). And plenty of gas cars have exploded too (Ford Pinto ... anyone?). Plus, I did the math on total cost -- buying used still wins for for my Volt.

Ford finally emailed me that they'd build my XLT in March. Then re-scheduled to April. Now it's back to late March. I ordered in July. Once the Mav finally arrives, I may take it for a spin ... but I went with a Colorado Diesel last year after Carvana/Vroom was willing to pay me big $$$ for my used Wrangler. Couldn't pass up selling in late '21.

So I may still pass on the Mav. Keep the Volt. Great little hatchback. Time will tell.

 

[MLA62563]

Thanks for your thoughts. August 1 order, never driven a hybrid…never driven a Maverick. Boy I hope I like it when it they finally build it.
love all the Falcon chat- have had five and built them over the summer to keep myself outta trouble once upon a time.

I hope so too. Good luck!
My dad had a Falcon and a Studebaker Lark when I was a kid, and as they were the first cars I really knew, I always get a tingle when I see one of them now. Shame it doesn't happen more often.

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