The Ford Maverick (Generation I) marks Ford's triumphant return to the compact pickup segment. Based on the C2 unibody platform (shared with the Ford Escape/Kuga and Bronco Sport), it stands out with its SUV-like road handling, ultra-practical bed (Flexbed), and above all, its hybrid powertrain offered as standard at launch. Designed primarily for North and South America, it offers an economical and rational alternative to traditional pickups (mid-size and full-size). Its price/performance/reliability ratio makes it one of the most sought-after vehicles in its class, generating significant delivery delays for new orders.
The Ford Maverick is a true success that redefines the compact pickup segment. Its 2.5L Hybrid powertrain is the best buy: it offers top-tier mechanical reliability (inherited from the Escape) and fuel consumption worthy of a compact sedan. The 2.0L EcoBoost block remains an excellent choice for those who need all-wheel drive or greater towing capacity. Although the core mechanics are very solid (ranked among the best by J.D. Power and Consumer Reports), the Maverick suffered from numerous electronic and software bugs during its early production years, resulting in a long list of recalls. Before any used purchase, it is imperative to verify that all software updates and safety recalls have been performed at a dealership. Once these fixes are applied, it is a highly recommendable vehicle.