Observations From A New Maverick And First-Time Hybrid Owner

[NewBernWolf]

With all of the reports on this site, regarding the Decals "coming off" in car washes (I won't take mine there) I have very serious concerns about the longevity of the 1st Edition decals peeling or coming off over the course of time!! In particular with the Florida Sun exposure!

'All the reports?' Was it more than one member?

Sponsored

 

[Snax]

With all of the reports on this site, regarding the Decals "coming off" in car washes (I won't take mine there) I have very serious concerns about the longevity of the 1st Edition decals peeling or coming off over the course of time!! In particular with the Florida Sun exposure!

Yeah, the durability of various decals seems questionable--at least based on a few reports here. Hopefully, it'll just be a limited problem that Ford can easily fix by shipping some new stickers. If it turns out to be widespread, it'll still be a pretty easy fix. I'm more concerned about reports of paint damage and glowing catalytic converters, because they could be long-term issues. That said, I'm not too worried yet, as long as Ford properly addresses stuff under warranty.

 

[huunvubu]

I've had my new hybrid Maverick XLT for just over a week now.

I have had mine for about two months. I picked it up from my dealer AutoNation Ford Frisco TX the night of December 13th, 2021.

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.

Same for me first hybrid I have owned or ridden in. Also have done the scouring here and on Tim's @fordvideoguy youtube channel.

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.

Same for me my Maverick has also exceeded my expectations. No criticism from me also on "Ride and handling", "fit and finish", "comfort and performance", "appearance and ergonomics".

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!

I sold my 2015 Honda Fit Ex to Carvana for $16,523 because I checked what the dealership would offer me ($11,750) two months before my Maverick was to be delivered.

You can check this thread about mime and others experience:

Trading-In/Selling Outright/Selling to Online Companies - Tell Your Story

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 EcoBoost, 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 have not driven an EcoBoost but the my hybrid is very quick off the line usually leaving the other vehicles way behind me when the light turns green. I accelerate up to speed then take the foot off the accelerator then gently re-apply to put the hybrid in electric only mode.

For me the hybrid is as quick or quicker than the wife's 2009 Honda CR-V or my previous 2015 Honda Fit. The power I feel is also like what I had with the 4L V6 I has in the 1998 Ford Ranger SuperCab.

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.

I have done two fill-ups over the two months I have had my Maverick and have driven 678 miles while averaging 40.6 MPG. At least 200 of those miles were highway miles with cruise speeds of 73 or 78 MPH.

Total miles driven = 678.00

Fees cost: 193.00, per mile cost: 0.285
Gas cost: 49.58, per mile cost: 0.073
Insurance cost: 82.81, per mile cost: 0.122
Purchase cost: 26226.30, per mile cost: 38.682
Wash cost: 6.00, per mile cost: 0.009

Total cost: 26557.69, per mile cost: 39.171


Gallons: 16.68
Miles per gallon: 40.6
Average price per gallon: 2.973

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 also have had no issues with the brakes or brake feel. Since I drive exclusively in ECO mode the regen braking is mostly what does the braking and pushing on the brake pedal just uses more regen so stopping results in "100% brake regen" report 99% of the time. The other 1% when the physical brakes are also applied I notice nothing different from what applying brakes on our ICE Honda cars.

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.

I am in the process in installing a Kia Auto-Dimming Mirror with Homelink and Compass in both the Maverick and my wife's CR-V.

Part Number​	Part Name​	Price​	Quantity​	Total​
A7062-ADUP1​	Ec Mirror W Compass​	$11.99​	2​	$23.98​

Subtotal: $23.98​

Estimated Shipping to 75019 via Standard Shipping: $9.02​

Tax: $2.72​

Total: $35.72​

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 backup camera is actually better than the one I had on the 2015 Honda Fit especially at night.

As with you it functions as expected for me.

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.

Base speakers sound fine for me also.

Android Auto operates as advertised for me also.

My hybrid was built on 11/29. Any hybrid built on that date or later will have the latest Ford Audio Software: Version G1.8.0.1_RC15_R21461A, Revision: (G1.8.0.1_PRODUCT_GD) that fixed the freezes or hiccups.

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 only issue I have is that the tailgate is not level with the bed when either fully down or when in the 4'x8' mode. The cables are of different length and the dealership saw this on both mine and another Maverick they have in stock. The dealership is contacting Ford about this issue.

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.

Absolutely love the interior of my XLT Maverick. Seats are super comfortable with the denim 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.

My friend says that the ride, handling and seats are way better than the Ford Fusion he owns.

I agree with that assessment and my Maverick's ride, handling and seats are way better than the 2015 Honda Fit Ex and the wife's 2009 Honda CR-V Ex we own(ed).

 

[Bushpilot]

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 am 100% in agreement with you, except that I cannot speak on the remote start, as I have not and will not use that function.

 

[Deleted member 7089]

Thanks, this is the type of trending posts I like to see...not the door slammers that insist on letting us know they're fed up.

 

[xSWMIx]

This review is pretty much worthless. Who doesn't throw bricks around in their vehicle?!?!

Seriously though, thank you.

 

[MLA62563]

I am 100% in agreement with you, except that I cannot speak on the remote start, as I have not and will not use that function.

Yeah, I don't have much use for remote start either. I just heard a number of complaints about the feature and wanted to see for myself.

 

[MLA62563]

Great review, thanks for sharing! I’ve had mine 1 week today and I have to agree with everything you said except for the trade in part and I haven’t tried remote start yet. My most favorite part is getting up these cold mornings, getting in my truck and turning on the heated seats and steering wheel! Wow, I could stay in there all day! I’m thinking about changing WFH to WFT (truck)

This is my 2nd hybrid with the first one a 2013 Ford CMax. It was definitely a learning curve and I always kept trying to outdo my previous mileage range. My friend bought one at the same time and with the different style of driving the dealers were always amazed that she still had the original brake pads with so little wear and 136,000 miles! The only reason she sold it last month was the transmission went out and was going to cost $7000 to replace/fix.. I keep telling her about the Mav but she says she doesn’t want a truck. I have a hard time calling this a truck! It’s as comfortable and quiet as my Lexus 300RX only it has an open back instead of a lift up trunk lid.

I’m still getting used to driving this hybrid as it is a little different from the CMax and I had a Hyundai Kona EV that I just sold. Driving an EV is also a different experience. I used to call my Kona a jackrabbit because I loved the acceleration from the stoplights! Now I going back to a more “conservative” type of driving

Oh yes, I expected to enjoy the heated steering wheel and seats....but after experiencing them firsthand, "enjoy" doesn't even come close. WOW! I wanted to test the remote start due to the various gripes about it, but in fact the heated steering wheel with it's instant warmth is all I need to be happy.

So far, my wife hasn't driven the Maverick. She's always wary of new things, and the whole "truck" thing in general, so I've been enjoying it exclusively since we got it, leaving our old Accord to her. But sorry as I am to say, there is NO doubt in my mind that once she grits her teeth, takes the plunge and discovers what a sweet ride it is.....I'll be lucky to drive it on birthdays and holidays.

 

[Bunkyg]

I have to agree with the OP, I've had mine for 3 weeks now and no complaints. But I will add this, Today I pulled my 5X8 landscape trailer roughly 200 miles first 60 empty, second 25 with 160 lbs of salt and added around 400 lbs of amish furniture for the ride home. Took it like a champ averaged 30 mpg for the ride home.

 

[Deleted member 1483]

I've had my new hybrid Maverick XLT for just over a week now....

Thanks for the review! This is just what I expected. I think you and I are a lot alike in that we just want a smooth reliable truck. Tired of hearing people trash it that are used to doing reviews of super expensive cars.

 

[SpacemanSpiff]

Man you are going to LOVE the Cyber Orange! I spend so much time admiring that glorious orange view over the hood, I'm afraid I might run into something.

That's awesome to hear, thanks! I think these fender flares will look great contrasted against the Cyber Orange paint.

 

[DesertMaverick]

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 honest and incredibly positive review. It is very comforting to read a post on this forum that is not filled with hate and negative opinions. I applaud your positive approach to your writing. It gives us hope that others will enjoy their Maverick the same as you. May you have many pleasant miles ahead while you build memories in your driving machine.

 

[Ronbye]

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!

Like you , when my Hybrid arrives, it will be my first hybrid and I have never drove one before. Really glad to see that your experience has been positive so far. I hope my experience in the future will be as well. Funny, I don't have the truck yet, but I have the roll up tonneau cover for it.

Thank you very much for the review.

 

[Gwillie]

Thanks for your great positive review of the Maverick. I didn't order a luxury or high performance vehicle and don't expect it to ride or drive like one. Based on your review, I'll be getting just what I ordered. Unfortunately, my order wasn't placed until the end of October and I may be rolled over into a 2023 model.

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!

Mine was delivered three weeks ago today and I agree with everything you said. So far there are no issues.

 

[Cubican]

i Think the review is spot on here’s what I got on a tank full 13.6 gal i did run it to 0 miles to go i forgot I needed gas lol

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