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We've spied a Ford Maverick prototype, equipped with a new independent rear suspension design, providing our first visual evidence of an AWD variant for the entry-level pickup.
Earlier this year, we managed a detailed look underneath a Maverick prototype which revealed a simple coil-sprung twist beam rear suspensionāsomething befitting a low-cost front-wheel-drive vehicle. Autoblogās analysis noted the similarity to Fordās FWD Transit Connect courier van, and went on to state: āThis configuration as it sits would be incompatible with powered rear axles by virtue of the rear spring location alone, so if there is to be an all-wheel-drive variant, it stands to reason that it would have to use of an entirely different rear subframe.ā
Well, it appears that weāve now spotted an AWD Maverick prototype with that different rear subframe, made up of a more complex, independent rear suspension design. The new design appears to be an adaptation of the four-wheel-drive Bronco Sport's rear multi-link set-up. The newly-spotted suspension design is a clear departure from the majority of Maverick prototypes running the streets of Dearborn, so it now seems a certainty that the Maverick will pursue a standard FWD strategy, augmented by an optional AWD variant that should yield ride and handling benefits in addition to its better traction.
The independent rear suspensions control arms appear to be enveloped by skid plates, for an added level of protection.
Earlier this year, we managed a detailed look underneath a Maverick prototype which revealed a simple coil-sprung twist beam rear suspensionāsomething befitting a low-cost front-wheel-drive vehicle. Autoblogās analysis noted the similarity to Fordās FWD Transit Connect courier van, and went on to state: āThis configuration as it sits would be incompatible with powered rear axles by virtue of the rear spring location alone, so if there is to be an all-wheel-drive variant, it stands to reason that it would have to use of an entirely different rear subframe.ā
Well, it appears that weāve now spotted an AWD Maverick prototype with that different rear subframe, made up of a more complex, independent rear suspension design. The new design appears to be an adaptation of the four-wheel-drive Bronco Sport's rear multi-link set-up. The newly-spotted suspension design is a clear departure from the majority of Maverick prototypes running the streets of Dearborn, so it now seems a certainty that the Maverick will pursue a standard FWD strategy, augmented by an optional AWD variant that should yield ride and handling benefits in addition to its better traction.
The independent rear suspensions control arms appear to be enveloped by skid plates, for an added level of protection.
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