The *official* mamboman777 Hybrid Maverick XLT owner review

[mamboman777]

All right, so I've finally got some time and mental bandwidth to spare, so here's my review!

I went into Five Star Ford, North Richland Hills, TX to investigate and order a Ford Lightning. After experiencing sticker shock, I was poking around and found out about the Maverick.

I came in a week later to make my order. At first, I was apprehensive about the hybrid due to the CVT transmission. I've had one previous CVT, on a Tiwanese scooter, it was fine, but I could see where people don't like them and why it wouldn't be a good plan on a car. After researching, I learned about the eCVT and how few moving parts out actually has. I learned that it is very similar to the Toyota hybrid transmissions. I watched the guy in the wheelchair show off the different internals of the the transmission. I also googled "NYC Taxi Ford Escape" and was sold.

I placed my order on August 1, 2021 for a hybrid, XLT, with in cab inverter, trailer hitch, and air deflectors.

XLT was a must for me because I use cruise control every day. Nicer rims are a bonus.

The in cab inverter is a great option for me and my two boys, who use the charging in the back. The hitch is a steal of an add on. The air deflectors are great. I've had them on every car I've driven since 2004. In Texas, I can leave my windows cracked and not worry about wet interior; IMHO, worth it.

Sometimes I wish I had ordered a full size spare, but other times I don't. I didn't use the spare in my previous two cars *knock on wood* and I'm rarely in a position where I'd need a full size spare. The doughnut is enough to get me to Discount Tire.

I was told by Five Star Ford, that my truck would arrive sooner if I got the bedliner and floor mats aftermarket. Bedliner is done, but I'm still waiting on the floor mats.

That said, kudos to them, because my truck arrived before many and I believe it's because of their guidance.

I went to pick up my truck on Saturday, April 2nd.

I was so excited to test drive it and remember smiling, a lot.

My previous car was a 2012 Ford Focus. So, much of the driving impressions are compared to that.

The ride is bumpier than I expected, though not bad compared to other trucks I've been in.

The steering is fine. Acceleration is fine. I do miss my 5 speed. I love driving with three pedals. That said, I'd easily trade all of the meh's of driving for the economy.

I like the acceleration, especially between 20-50mph. That's where I spend most of my time anyways. It's responsive and fun. I've never found it lacking. At highway speeds it's not as good, but better than my focus was, so .

Sport mode is hilarious and unnecessary (for me).

I have decided that I'm going to leave my Maverick in "Normal" most of the time.

I'm not going to use Eco for a few reasons: 1. The throttle response is not as good. 2. The economy of Eco vs. Normal is not much different in my experience. 3. (This is conjecture based on what I've learned from videos and the interwebs) I believe that the eco mode allows deeper use of the HVB. Deeper use decreases longevity. If you have an opinion about this, I'd love to hear it, but that's what I think. Time will tell.

The brakes took some getting used to. I do not think they are linear, at all. I also think it's funny that the pedal feels like a traditional hydraulic, because they aren't traditional brakes. I have had the "whump" hard stop happen at low speeds a few times, but I guess at least it's never done the opposite. That said, to get%100 on brake coach I have to feather it until I'm below 20mph, then gradually increase pressure until I've stopped.

The first time I saw the Maverick and some days, I'm surprised at how small it is. Other days I'm surprised at how big it is. All days I've thought, "it's the right size for me."

Plenty of room for me, my wife, and my twin 6 year old boys. I think we're going to buy some neck pillows for them to sleep in the road trip, because that's not great in the back.

The interior storage is ample and awesome.

I like Android auto. I've had to restart it twice (hold power and fast forward), but I don't consider that a major issue.

The sound system is fine. Most of my in car listening is podcasts, which the Maverick does fine. I'm past the days of trying to get good audio in a car. IMHO, a car is NOT the place for that. It's not quiet enough and the only way to overcome that is volume. I like my hearing and I value "rests" (musical silence) in my music, so if I'm going to listen to music, I'm going to do so on some nice headphones or speakers in a quiet environment.

Now, the best part of this truck, no ute, no trucklette, no SUT, no WHATEVER. The best part is the value.

Granted, I saved more down payment, but my car payments are LESS than my 2012 focus! It's so nice to be able to haul stuff. I haven't done any towing yet, but I'm sure that $100 hitch is going to be used. I'm getting >42 mpg lifetime. Current tank is at 45 MPG. Hot tip, if you have the time, change route options in Google Maps to "avoid highways.". Most of the time for me, it adds <5 minutes, but my gas mileage is great!

Kudos again, to Five Star Ford. John Little and Jeff Crabtree. They were honest and as transparent as possible throughout the process. They honored price protection and MSRP. they gave me $1300 MORE than I expected (carvana) on my trade.

There might be cheaper vehicles, there might be more capable vehicles, there might be more comfortable vehicles, but this is the right combination of those for me. It's comfortable enough. It's capable enough, actually more than capable for me most days. And holy moly, the total cost of ownership is a win. Sure, an electric, MIGHT, be a better value, especially if gas prices keep going up, but right now, I don't see it.

Well done Ford. You've kept a customer loyal. Well done Five Star Ford, NRH. You've earned a customers loyalty and maybe won a new customer (my wife). Well done MTC. Thank you for all the information and laughs.

Review done. (Until I think of something to add and edit it later)

Time to meme.

Sponsored

 

[MLowe05]

1. I don't think so on the deeper use of the HVB in eco mode. The cars are programmed to protect the batteries for maximum longevity, but IIRC you did start the thread about scary HVB replacement costs?

2. The brakes are hydraulic. Sure, the braking system uses regenerative braking a lot, but the truck has a hydraulic setup running normal friction brakes. Otherwise it wouldn't need pads/rotors.

 

[WannaMav]

re: the "bumpy" ride

Checked that tire pressure has been adjusted down from shipping psi to spec psi?

 

[mamboman777]

re: the "bumpy" ride

Checked that tire pressure has been adjusted down from shipping psi to spec psi?

I have and adjusted. They were overinflated from factory, but the ride is still wish I would call bumpy.

 

[Rob Cactus Gray]

I believe your theory on more use of the battery is half right. While more use of anything wears it out faster, simply not using batteries also wears them out. So, while you’re not necessarily wrong, the alternative likely isn’t any better. I’m also not so sure is uses the battery any differently. Typically the “eco” mode reduces accessory power and less responsive gas pedal to conserve fuel. Sounds like you’re getting eco mode MPG values anyway.

The battery will last a long time (great warranty). By the time the battery warranty dies there will be a good upgrade to dump in the Maverick for a reasonable price.

As far as the bumpy ride goes I would first look at better tires. Perhaps the suspension needs Upgraded.

 

[Milton Jeff]

Nice summary Josh. You have participated so much in this forum you should get a special icon or star.... Great job.

 

[mamboman777]

1. I don't think so on the deeper use of the HVB in eco mode. The cars are programmed to protect the batteries for maximum longevity, but IIRC you did start the thread about scary HVB replacement costs?

I don't think I started the "scary" thread about HVB costs. If you dig into that thread a little, I actually started that that in response to another thread. Basically, I'm sick of people including replacing the HVB as an inevitable maintenance for the hybrid. I *knock on wood* don't see it that way. In fact, the idea for that thread came about because I thought to myself, "why do people keep saying this? Do any of you actually know people who have had to replace a hybrid battery?"

So I started as thread. And, if anything, it should be comforting. >%95 (that filled out the poll) have not had to replace the battery.

 

[mamboman777]

Had to go find it, but here's the video that leads me to believe that normal mode is better for the HVB. I have a high confidence that either normal or eco will yield a long battery lifetime. I know the car has battery monitoring systems that protect the battery.

So, why normal vs eco, number one, with my driving habits, I don't see a difference between mpg in eco or normal. Next, I believe that batteries last longer when kept between %60-80 charge.

The final thing that leads me to this is the following video. Go to 16 minutes to watch the drive. I don't know how, but they are able to monitor, in real time, the charge rate and power of the hybrid system. At 18:51 the reviewer says that in eco mode, the vehicle is allowed to go to a deeper discharge state before the ICE kicks on. Putting it out of the battery "sweet spot" more. Will it result in a longer lasting pack? But, if I don't see a benefit for eco mode, why would I use it?

 

[mamboman777]

2. The brakes are hydraulic. Sure, the braking system uses regenerative braking a lot, but the truck has a hydraulic setup running normal friction brakes. Otherwise it wouldn't need pads/rotors.

You're right, the truck does use hydraulic brakes, but the brake pedal is not directly attached to the hydraulic breaking system. It's a brake by wire system.

Tech Feature: Ford Hybrid Braking

On a hybrid vehicle, the brake pedal acts as more of human interface to the ABS module for a request for braking. Regenerative braking is the hybrid’s first choice for braking. The ABS module “tells” the PCM or TCM (model year dependent), that a request for brakes have been made and how much braking is desired. The PCM or TCM, then applies regenerative braking, via the traction motor inside the transmission, as needed. More regenerative braking increases the amount of electrical charge generated for the HV battery at the same time it produces more drag to slow the vehicle down. During many light braking events, the rear friction brakes will be lightly applied and the front may not be applied at all until the vehicle is at a stop or near stop. For this reason, it is normal for a hybrid to wear the rear brake pads two and three times faster than the front pads.

Here's How Brake-by-Wire Works, and Why It's Perfectly Safe

Essentially, a brake-by-wire system controls the brakes electronically. A position sensor monitors how far the driver has pushed the brake pedal, which is used to determine the amount of braking force requested. A control then unit determines how much hydraulic pressure is required, and an electric pump is used to actually generate that pressure and stop the car. All of which happens in an instant. In some electric cars, like the e-Tron and Porsche Taycan, the brake hydraulics are only activated after a certain threshold is met—light pressure on the pedal may only trigger electric motor regeneration.

 

[Meintc]

All right, so I've finally got some time and mental bandwidth to spare, so here's my review!

I went into Five Star Ford, North Richland Hills, TX to investigate and order a Ford Lightning. After experiencing sticker shock, I was poking around and found out about the Maverick.

I came in a week later to make my order. At first, I was apprehensive about the hybrid due to the CVT transmission. I've had one previous CVT, on a Tiwanese scooter, it was fine, but I could see where people don't like them and why it wouldn't be a good plan on a car. After researching, I learned about the eCVT and how few moving parts out actually has. I learned that it is very similar to the Toyota hybrid transmissions. I watched the guy in the wheelchair show off the different internals of the the transmission. I also googled "NYC Taxi Ford Escape" and was sold.

I placed my order on August 1, 2021 for a hybrid, XLT, with in cab inverter, trailer hitch, and air deflectors.

XLT was a must for me because I use cruise control every day. Nicer rims are a bonus.

The in cab inverter is a great option for me and my two boys, who use the charging in the back. The hitch is a steal of an add on. The air deflectors are great. I've had them on every car I've driven since 2004. In Texas, I can leave my windows cracked and not worry about wet interior; IMHO, worth it.

Sometimes I wish I had ordered a full size spare, but other times I don't. I didn't use the spare in my previous two cars *knock on wood* and I'm rarely in a position where I'd need a full size spare. The doughnut is enough to get me to Discount Tire.

I was told by Five Star Ford, that my truck works arrive sooner if I got the bedliner and floor mats aftermarket. Bedliner is done, but I'm still waiting on the floor mats.

That said, kudos to them, because my truck arrived before many and I believe it's because of their guidance.

I went to pick up my truck on Saturday, April 2nd.

I was so excited to test drive it and remember smiling, a lot.

My previous car was a 2012 Ford Focus. So, much of the driving impressions are compared to that.

The ride is bumpier than I expected, though not bad compared to other trucks I've been in.

The steering is fine. Acceleration is fine. I do miss my 5 speed. I love driving with three pedals. That said, I'd easily trade all of the meh's of driving for the economy.

I like the acceleration, especially between 20-50mph. That's where I spend most of my time anyways. It's responsive and fun. I've never found it lacking. At highway speeds it's not as good, but better than my focus was, so .

Sport mode is hilarious and unnecessary (for me).

I have decided that I'm going to leave my Maverick in "Normal" most of the time.

I'm not going to use Eco for a few reasons: 1. The throttle response is not as good. 2. The economy of Eco vs. Normal is not much different in my experience. 3. (This is conjecture based on what I've learned from videos and the interwebs) I believe that the eco mode allows deeper use of the HVB. Deeper use decreases longevity. If you have an opinion about this, I'd love to hear it, but that's what I think. Time will tell.

The brakes took some getting used to. I do not think they are linear, at all. I also think it's funny that the pedal feels like a traditional hydraulic, because they aren't traditional brakes. I have had the "whump" hard stop happen at low speeds a few times, but I guess at least it's never done the opposite. That said, to get%100 on brake coach I have to feather it until I'm below 20mph, then gradually increase pressure until I've stopped.

The first time I saw the Maverick and some days, I'm surprised at how small it is. Other days I'm surprised at how big it is. All days I've thought, "it's the right size for me."

Plenty of room for me, my wife, and my twin 6 year old boys. I think we're going to buy some neck pillows for them to sleep in the road trip, because that's not great in the back.

The interior storage is ample and awesome.

I like Android auto. I've had to restart it twice (hold power and fast forward), but I don't consider that a major issue.

The sound system is fine. Most of my in car listening is podcasts, which the Maverick does fine. I'm past the days of trying to get good audio in a car. IMHO, a car is NOT the place for that. It's not quiet enough and the only way to overcome that is volume. I like my hearing and I value "rests" (musical silence) in my music, so if I'm going to listen to music, I'm going to do so on some nice headphones or speakers in a quiet environment.

Now, the best part of this truck, no ute, no trucklette, no SUT, no WHATEVER. The best part is the value.

Granted, I saved more down payment, but my car payments are LESS than my 2012 focus! It's so nice to be able to haul stuff. I haven't done any towing yet, but I'm sure that $100 hitch is going to be used. I'm getting >42 mpg lifetime. Current tank is at 45 MPG. Hot tip, if you have the time, change route options in Google Maps to "avoid highways.". Most of the time for me, it adds <5 minutes, but my gas mileage is great!

Kudos again, to Five Star Ford. John Little and Jeff Crabtree. They were honest and as transparent as possible throughout the process. They honored price protection and MSRP. they gave me $1300 MORE than I expected (carvana) on my trade.

There might be cheaper vehicles, there might be more capable vehicles, there might be more comfortable vehicles, but this is the right combination of those for me. It's comfortable enough. It's capable enough, actually more than capable for me most days. And holy moly, the total cost of ownership is a win. Sure, an electric, MIGHT, be a better value, especially if gas prices keep going up, but right now, I don't see it.

Well done Ford. You've kept a customer loyal. Well done Five Star Ford, NRH. You've earned a customers loyalty and maybe won a new customer (my wife). Well done MTC. Thank you for all the information and laughs.

Review done. (Until I think of something to add and edit it later)

Time to meme.

Great review. Last vehicle I purchased was a used 2002 Focus after my 95 Chevy S10 engine died on me. Loved the Focus, but gas mileage was terrible. I was thinking, how will I remember to switch to Eco mode? I decided to practice by turning off my traction control on my Escape, but I almost always forget to do that. Glad to hear you are finding it doesn't seem to make that big of difference. I'll be driving 90% of the time in city, so maybe I don't have to worry about it.

 

[jtpc2021]

All right, so I've finally got some time and mental bandwidth to spare, so here's my review!

I went into Five Star Ford, North Richland Hills, TX to investigate and order a Ford Lightning. After experiencing sticker shock, I was poking around and found out about the Maverick.

I came in a week later to make my order. At first, I was apprehensive about the hybrid due to the CVT transmission. I've had one previous CVT, on a Tiwanese scooter, it was fine, but I could see where people don't like them and why it wouldn't be a good plan on a car. After researching, I learned about the eCVT and how few moving parts out actually has. I learned that it is very similar to the Toyota hybrid transmissions. I watched the guy in the wheelchair show off the different internals of the the transmission. I also googled "NYC Taxi Ford Escape" and was sold.

I placed my order on August 1, 2021 for a hybrid, XLT, with in cab inverter, trailer hitch, and air deflectors.

XLT was a must for me because I use cruise control every day. Nicer rims are a bonus.

The in cab inverter is a great option for me and my two boys, who use the charging in the back. The hitch is a steal of an add on. The air deflectors are great. I've had them on every car I've driven since 2004. In Texas, I can leave my windows cracked and not worry about wet interior; IMHO, worth it.

Sometimes I wish I had ordered a full size spare, but other times I don't. I didn't use the spare in my previous two cars *knock on wood* and I'm rarely in a position where I'd need a full size spare. The doughnut is enough to get me to Discount Tire.

I was told by Five Star Ford, that my truck would arrive sooner if I got the bedliner and floor mats aftermarket. Bedliner is done, but I'm still waiting on the floor mats.

That said, kudos to them, because my truck arrived before many and I believe it's because of their guidance.

I went to pick up my truck on Saturday, April 2nd.

I was so excited to test drive it and remember smiling, a lot.

My previous car was a 2012 Ford Focus. So, much of the driving impressions are compared to that.

The ride is bumpier than I expected, though not bad compared to other trucks I've been in.

The steering is fine. Acceleration is fine. I do miss my 5 speed. I love driving with three pedals. That said, I'd easily trade all of the meh's of driving for the economy.

I like the acceleration, especially between 20-50mph. That's where I spend most of my time anyways. It's responsive and fun. I've never found it lacking. At highway speeds it's not as good, but better than my focus was, so .

Sport mode is hilarious and unnecessary (for me).

I have decided that I'm going to leave my Maverick in "Normal" most of the time.

I'm not going to use Eco for a few reasons: 1. The throttle response is not as good. 2. The economy of Eco vs. Normal is not much different in my experience. 3. (This is conjecture based on what I've learned from videos and the interwebs) I believe that the eco mode allows deeper use of the HVB. Deeper use decreases longevity. If you have an opinion about this, I'd love to hear it, but that's what I think. Time will tell.

The brakes took some getting used to. I do not think they are linear, at all. I also think it's funny that the pedal feels like a traditional hydraulic, because they aren't traditional brakes. I have had the "whump" hard stop happen at low speeds a few times, but I guess at least it's never done the opposite. That said, to get%100 on brake coach I have to feather it until I'm below 20mph, then gradually increase pressure until I've stopped.

The first time I saw the Maverick and some days, I'm surprised at how small it is. Other days I'm surprised at how big it is. All days I've thought, "it's the right size for me."

Plenty of room for me, my wife, and my twin 6 year old boys. I think we're going to buy some neck pillows for them to sleep in the road trip, because that's not great in the back.

The interior storage is ample and awesome.

I like Android auto. I've had to restart it twice (hold power and fast forward), but I don't consider that a major issue.

The sound system is fine. Most of my in car listening is podcasts, which the Maverick does fine. I'm past the days of trying to get good audio in a car. IMHO, a car is NOT the place for that. It's not quiet enough and the only way to overcome that is volume. I like my hearing and I value "rests" (musical silence) in my music, so if I'm going to listen to music, I'm going to do so on some nice headphones or speakers in a quiet environment.

Now, the best part of this truck, no ute, no trucklette, no SUT, no WHATEVER. The best part is the value.

Granted, I saved more down payment, but my car payments are LESS than my 2012 focus! It's so nice to be able to haul stuff. I haven't done any towing yet, but I'm sure that $100 hitch is going to be used. I'm getting >42 mpg lifetime. Current tank is at 45 MPG. Hot tip, if you have the time, change route options in Google Maps to "avoid highways.". Most of the time for me, it adds <5 minutes, but my gas mileage is great!

Kudos again, to Five Star Ford. John Little and Jeff Crabtree. They were honest and as transparent as possible throughout the process. They honored price protection and MSRP. they gave me $1300 MORE than I expected (carvana) on my trade.

There might be cheaper vehicles, there might be more capable vehicles, there might be more comfortable vehicles, but this is the right combination of those for me. It's comfortable enough. It's capable enough, actually more than capable for me most days. And holy moly, the total cost of ownership is a win. Sure, an electric, MIGHT, be a better value, especially if gas prices keep going up, but right now, I don't see it.

Well done Ford. You've kept a customer loyal. Well done Five Star Ford, NRH. You've earned a customers loyalty and maybe won a new customer (my wife). Well done MTC. Thank you for all the information and laughs.

Review done. (Until I think of something to add and edit it later)

Time to meme.

I agree with you on the bumpy ride. It is the main disappointment for me. I’d say it’s harsh (and I’ve owned 3 trucks and multiple sports cars, all of which were smoother), but what can you do when you have to order before a car is available?
(and yes, my tire pressures are all correct)

 

[WannaMav]

I agree with you on the bumpy ride. It is the main disappointment for me. I’d say it’s harsh (and I’ve owned 3 trucks and multiple sports cars, all of which were smoother), but what can you do when you have to order before a car is available?
(and yes, my tire pressures are all correct)

Interesting. There's a perennially rough riding and wavy-surfaced 1/10th mile patch of highway nearby which is unavoidable (only road in or out) and the Maverick simply glides over it.

In the previous vehicle had to learn to hug tightly to the lane divider in order to skirt the worst of it and not be jounced around. Even then it sounded as if was riding on two flat tires while traversing the section; no such noises evident in the Mav.

 

[MightyMaverick]

Congrats. I almost considered the XLT myself but I figured for a few thousand more I can just get a Lariat. I do not regret it in the slightest. Mine is an Ecoboost so things like the brake feel, fuel economy and power are vastly different compared to your Hybrid. If you haven't experienced already, you're gonna get looks wherever you go. Even in you Oxford White, just the shape of the truck alone is enough to turn heads since it's something so unique from the pack. Also, I couldn't agree more with your analogy on size. It's just the right size for me as well. I mentioned this in one of my latest posts. I mentioned how most people who need to haul light stuff need a Maverick. Most don't need a full-size or even a mid-size pickup when the Maverick does the job just fine. And you have the added benefit of a truck that drives and handles like a car/crossover. That's why I do not miss my Tacoma in the slightest. Anyways, great review. I enjoyed the memes.

 

[jtpc2021]

Interesting. There's a perennially rough riding and wavy-surfaced 1/10th mile patch of highway nearby which is unavoidable (only road in or out) and the Maverick simply glides over it.

In the previous vehicle had to learn to hug tightly to the lane divider in order to skirt the worst of it and not be jounced around. Even then it sounded as if was riding on two flat tires while traversing the section; no such noises evident in the Mav.

Is yours a hybrid or ecoboost? I’m sure the better multi-link rear suspension of the ecoboost helps over the torsion beam rear of hybrid.

 

[Kcht]

All right, so I've finally got some time and mental bandwidth to spare, so here's my review!

I went into Five Star Ford, North Richland Hills, TX to investigate and order a Ford Lightning. After experiencing sticker shock, I was poking around and found out about the Maverick.

I came in a week later to make my order. At first, I was apprehensive about the hybrid due to the CVT transmission. I've had one previous CVT, on a Tiwanese scooter, it was fine, but I could see where people don't like them and why it wouldn't be a good plan on a car. After researching, I learned about the eCVT and how few moving parts out actually has. I learned that it is very similar to the Toyota hybrid transmissions. I watched the guy in the wheelchair show off the different internals of the the transmission. I also googled "NYC Taxi Ford Escape" and was sold.

I placed my order on August 1, 2021 for a hybrid, XLT, with in cab inverter, trailer hitch, and air deflectors.

XLT was a must for me because I use cruise control every day. Nicer rims are a bonus.

The in cab inverter is a great option for me and my two boys, who use the charging in the back. The hitch is a steal of an add on. The air deflectors are great. I've had them on every car I've driven since 2004. In Texas, I can leave my windows cracked and not worry about wet interior; IMHO, worth it.

Sometimes I wish I had ordered a full size spare, but other times I don't. I didn't use the spare in my previous two cars *knock on wood* and I'm rarely in a position where I'd need a full size spare. The doughnut is enough to get me to Discount Tire.

I was told by Five Star Ford, that my truck would arrive sooner if I got the bedliner and floor mats aftermarket. Bedliner is done, but I'm still waiting on the floor mats.

That said, kudos to them, because my truck arrived before many and I believe it's because of their guidance.

I went to pick up my truck on Saturday, April 2nd.

I was so excited to test drive it and remember smiling, a lot.

My previous car was a 2012 Ford Focus. So, much of the driving impressions are compared to that.

The ride is bumpier than I expected, though not bad compared to other trucks I've been in.

The steering is fine. Acceleration is fine. I do miss my 5 speed. I love driving with three pedals. That said, I'd easily trade all of the meh's of driving for the economy.

I like the acceleration, especially between 20-50mph. That's where I spend most of my time anyways. It's responsive and fun. I've never found it lacking. At highway speeds it's not as good, but better than my focus was, so .

Sport mode is hilarious and unnecessary (for me).

I have decided that I'm going to leave my Maverick in "Normal" most of the time.

I'm not going to use Eco for a few reasons: 1. The throttle response is not as good. 2. The economy of Eco vs. Normal is not much different in my experience. 3. (This is conjecture based on what I've learned from videos and the interwebs) I believe that the eco mode allows deeper use of the HVB. Deeper use decreases longevity. If you have an opinion about this, I'd love to hear it, but that's what I think. Time will tell.

The brakes took some getting used to. I do not think they are linear, at all. I also think it's funny that the pedal feels like a traditional hydraulic, because they aren't traditional brakes. I have had the "whump" hard stop happen at low speeds a few times, but I guess at least it's never done the opposite. That said, to get%100 on brake coach I have to feather it until I'm below 20mph, then gradually increase pressure until I've stopped.

The first time I saw the Maverick and some days, I'm surprised at how small it is. Other days I'm surprised at how big it is. All days I've thought, "it's the right size for me."

Plenty of room for me, my wife, and my twin 6 year old boys. I think we're going to buy some neck pillows for them to sleep in the road trip, because that's not great in the back.

The interior storage is ample and awesome.

I like Android auto. I've had to restart it twice (hold power and fast forward), but I don't consider that a major issue.

The sound system is fine. Most of my in car listening is podcasts, which the Maverick does fine. I'm past the days of trying to get good audio in a car. IMHO, a car is NOT the place for that. It's not quiet enough and the only way to overcome that is volume. I like my hearing and I value "rests" (musical silence) in my music, so if I'm going to listen to music, I'm going to do so on some nice headphones or speakers in a quiet environment.

Now, the best part of this truck, no ute, no trucklette, no SUT, no WHATEVER. The best part is the value.

Granted, I saved more down payment, but my car payments are LESS than my 2012 focus! It's so nice to be able to haul stuff. I haven't done any towing yet, but I'm sure that $100 hitch is going to be used. I'm getting >42 mpg lifetime. Current tank is at 45 MPG. Hot tip, if you have the time, change route options in Google Maps to "avoid highways.". Most of the time for me, it adds <5 minutes, but my gas mileage is great!

Kudos again, to Five Star Ford. John Little and Jeff Crabtree. They were honest and as transparent as possible throughout the process. They honored price protection and MSRP. they gave me $1300 MORE than I expected (carvana) on my trade.

There might be cheaper vehicles, there might be more capable vehicles, there might be more comfortable vehicles, but this is the right combination of those for me. It's comfortable enough. It's capable enough, actually more than capable for me most days. And holy moly, the total cost of ownership is a win. Sure, an electric, MIGHT, be a better value, especially if gas prices keep going up, but right now, I don't see it.

Well done Ford. You've kept a customer loyal. Well done Five Star Ford, NRH. You've earned a customers loyalty and maybe won a new customer (my wife). Well done MTC. Thank you for all the information and laughs.

Review done. (Until I think of something to add and edit it later)

Time to meme.

Really really good your review with the memes!!!! I like it a lot!!!! Thanks

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