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Since the very earliest reports of the Maverick, there has been speculation that on the base trim level the standard engine might be Ford’s Duratec 20 normally aspirated engine. I find myself hoping this is true because I have reservations about the 1.5 Ecoboost if it indeed has a timing belt bathed in oil, rather than a timing chain. The 2 litre Duratec was designed in cooperation with Mazda and was used in various Ford, Mazda and Volvo products. Ford has continued to improve it over the years. If you search the internet you’ll find that this is an extremely reliable engine and it does have a timing chain. Yes, there is 19 less horsepower and 46 less lb/ft of torque, but for my driving style I don’t think I’d miss the power very often. There is so much standard equipment in even base model vehicles these days (looking particularly at Escape S), that I think I could configure a very satisfactory truck with a few aftermarket items (trailer hitch, heated seats, tonneau cover). The only thing I would love to have is a heated steering wheel, but I don’t think spending about $3k more for a mid level trim and a cold weather option package is worth it.
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