The all-new 2022 Ford Maverick made a splash when it was released at the end of September as America’s first standard hybrid pickup. It’s size and utility have set it apart from the crowd from the start, and now it has achieved further success by officially becoming the most fuel efficient hybrid truck in America as well.
The Maverick has filled a previously under-recognized need for conservatively sized pickup trucks. It is smaller and less expensive than other pickups but still more powerful and capable than an SUV, perfect for those who need some capability but don’t need or want a massive truck. Despite this departure in size, the Maverick has been through towing tests and other evaluations that any Ford pickup would be subject to, and has pickup accessories and packages available for customization. The hybrid engine that has caught so much attention only serves to further distinguish this small powerhouse.
The 2.5-liter hybrid engine has an EPA-estimated rating of 37 miles per gallon combined, 33 miles per gallon highway and an EPA-estimated range of more than 500 miles on a single tank of gas. The Maverick utilizes Ford’s fourth-generation hybrid propulsion system, including an all-new 2.5-liter Atkinson cycle hybrid engine and electronic continuously variable transmission. The liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery is incredibly compact, not much larger than a briefcase, and is situated beneath the second row of seats in order to not waste cargo space.
Chris Mazur, Ford Maverick chief engineer, said, “Our team set out to redefine what a truck could be with Maverick, and we’ve done that with an EPA-estimated 42 mpg city that beats the 2022 Honda Civic 1.5-liter 4-cylinder automatic (variable gear ratio) gasoline engine. At the same time, Maverick offers room for five and plenty of towing and hauling for weekend trips or do-it-yourself projects.”
The Maverick is scheduled to begin shipping out December, and the first customers should be expecting to receive their shipments in January 2022. Due to high demand for the compact pickup, all of the Maverick Hybrids produced for the 2022 model year are expected to be reserved by early November. Once all of the 2022 Maverick Hybrids have been reserved, ordering for the truck will close, with reservations reopening again next summer. Customers will still be able to reserve the Maverick with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, which is currently on sale and on its way to dealers and customers.