Observations From A New Maverick And First-Time Hybrid Owner

[MLA62563]

3 weeks in on my Hybrid. I fully concur with all that you've said about it. I almost missed out on the Hybrid after switching to the Ecoboost. Just happens that the person that ordered this one decided not to purchase and I was given the opportunity to switch. So, So, glad that I did now.

I was impatient and purchased a 2022 Nissan Frontier, but fortunately for me I just got an offer from Carvana to purchase it for what I paid for it. So, I at least won't loose any money on it.

Plan to keep this Hybrid Maverick for awhile, so I second the hope that this thing pans out to be reliable for many years to come.

Thanks for the review, love seeing individual reviews like this, rather than the journalist tech types.

Congrats on your new truck. You really lucked out!
When I was putting together my order, I came so, SO close to dismissing the hybrid out of hand because I had heard some VERY bad things about CVT's, not knowing the eCVT isn't at all comparable. And man, am I glad I took a breath and did a little research first!

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[Redbird22]

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 my build date is 10 days away . Hope I see it soon ! Looks like a Great Truck !

 

[MLA62563]

How's that atomic orange treating you in person?

Oh wow, I am LOVING the color! I gave my wife her choice of colors and when she chose the one color I had doubts about (CO), I tried to talk her out of it. And man am I glad she stuck to her guns. Seeing that sunny glow over the steering wheel when I get in never fails to bring a smile to my face!

 

[MD_Maverick]

Thanks for the review, as you did I’ll be coming from an older car and driving a hybrid for the first time. Pretty excited, just wish I made the choice earlier than 11/2/21 to put my order in. Not sure I’ll get mine this year but who knows, hopefully July/Aug.

No special features except 360 and a tow hitch in mine just an XL.

 

[MLA62563]

I received an unexpected call from my dealer today, but it was a VERY GOOD ONE! I didn't expect the call till next week, but my Maverick First Edition R.R. came in today and was ready for pickup. My dealership was Tuttle-Click Ford Irvine Cal & Brandon Hill is my sales representative. They informed me that this was their first Hybrid; as well as, a First Edition to be delivered, so they were also excited.

I'm not going to do a review, we've all seen/heard so many of them, but I will remark on how impressed I was. I've waited just short of 8 months for for my 1st truck that I've never seen or touched. I tempered my expectations because of this, while watching or reading as many reviews as I could. Bottom line, this truck exceeded my expectations:

• 1st, the exterior size is perfect for what I wanted
• Next, the Rapid Red is Awesome, I love it! It's a deep rich red.
• The wheels & tires look great, but I will be painting the calipers to give it that something extra.
• Completed all the paper work and Yes, they held true to MSRP & all that we agreed to from the beginning.
• Behind the wheel driving: I was taken back by how much bigger the truck felt from the inside on the road... Loved it!
• Road handling was impressive and solid in both fwy speeds and SoCal traffic.
• The technology stuff is pretty cool & the B&O system rocks (I was a bit worried about this, but not anymore).
• I can't wait to take it out for some adventures.

Wow....that's a beautiful truck. Congratulations! I LOVE the Rapid Red.
And yes, the size is just perfect. Some reviews call it Tiny, or Baby Truck or Trucklet....but I'm sorry it's just NOT that small. It's just right, and as you say it seems bigger on the inside. How do they do that?
Good luck on your adventures!

 

[MLA62563]

I ordered my hybrid September 29th. I'm hoping to get it by this spring/summer. I was thinking that I don't want to be held hostage by the trade-in I get for my current car, so I might try to sell it prior to picking up mine. Good luck with your new Maverick!

Thanks!
Yes, definitely sell it yourself if you can. They have no incentive to negotiate.

 

[MLA62563]

Thank you for telling us of your experience. I would like to know gas mileage. My driving would be mainly city and short trips with sporadic 60 mile (non-freeway) drive to my parents and back. Generally now I fill up about 2 times a month.

Just checked this morning, and it is showing 39.2 MPG at 242 miles. Sounds like our driving habits are similar. The question is how accurate the onboard system is in the early going. I'll report back when I fill up the first time....but it may be a while at this rate.

 

[MLA62563]

I think you took the words right out of my mouth! As a Lariat Hybrid owner it was the first everything for me too! I've owned Levi, since January 3rd and like you, do not have a single complaint, not 1..this truck is honestly, perfect!
I drive mostly highway, opposite of you, about 85% at very fast, aggressive hwy speeds over 80 to 85 for long distances everyday and I'm getting 39.4 average at the pump with weekend drives over 42 mpg...I have yet to be as low as the EPA hwy rating of 33 or combined 37!
I've tried...I hit 105 daily, with ease and STILL can't get in the low 30's...my daily drive is over 40 miles, one way, climbing hills, sharp curves, crazy traffic...unhinged Texans on the interstate with monster trucks trying to flatten you with every turn and I can keep up! In fact, I laugh when they barrel down on me and I punch that Hybrid and she jumps into action and doesn't break a sweat! Brings a smile to my face everytime. I had a guy chase me down on the hwy last week, he actually followed me as I exited the hwy to give me the ! Yeah, I'm more than satisfied with my hybrid and say to anyone still waiting, hang in there, you won't regret it!
Cheers

It's amazing how this truck hops up to speed so effortlessly, isn't it? It's so smooth, and with the engine speed staying low and steady, it kind of fools the senses. I'll nudge it out into traffic, and suddenly I'm doing 55 and I think "Hey, how did that happen?".
Great to hear those mileage numbers, by the way!

 

[WannaMav]

as you say it seems bigger on the inside. How do they do that?

Part truck, part TARDIS.

 

[MLA62563]

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.

Well, I suppose people who have negative experiences are just more likely to post their opinions. And I fully understand and empathize with those who've had issues with something they waited so long to get. But I've been saddened by all the negativity I've seen just the same, and had to think that for every negative experience there must surely be dozens happy endings. And I was determined that if I turned out to be one of the happy ones, I would damn well say so, and spread a little positivity to help balance the scale. And with an experience as marvelously positive as mine has been...it was an absolute pleasure!

 

[Weird Harold]

Thanks for the glowing report, Mike! I too am taking a huge leap of faith in waiting for my June order to come in. Good to hear from someone who is happy with the truck!

 

[MLA62563]

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.

Great to hear this truck is not just another pretty face!

 

[xSWMIx]

Congrats on your new truck. You really lucked out!
When I was putting together my order, I came so, SO close to dismissing the hybrid out of hand because I had heard some VERY bad things about CVT's, not knowing the eCVT isn't at all comparable. And man, am I glad I took a breath and did a little research first!

I have (well, my wife has) a 2014 Subaru Forester we bought new that is hands-down the best vehicle I have ever owned in my life. Bought in Oct of 2013 and it hasn't need anything but oil changes and brakes once.

 

[brnpttmn]

Part truck, part TARDIS.

Lol.

The first few times parking it in my smallish garage it was a weird mind trick because it didn't seem like it was going to fit, and then I'd get out and there is plenty of room on all sides.

 

[DeeZee]

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!

Nice review! The best part is you are providing your impressions based on what the Maverick is……a cheap truck.

As others have said the best play was to buy the vehicle and tell the dealer you don’t have a trade in. They used the old 4 square to pay you less than what your old vehicle was worth. PP sell is normally best. Enjoy your Maverick!

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