2022 Ford Maverick

Among Ford’s SUVs and pickups, the smallest options usually earn our highest ratings. Consumer Reports has recommended the Mustang Mach-E EV, the thrilling Mustang coupe and convertible, and the Maverick, a small pickup truck available with a hybrid powertrain. Most other vehicles, however, score low in our road tests and have average to below average reliability. With some exceptions, used Fords can be a risk. The Ford F-150 pickup combines true truck capabilities with quiet, roomy cabins, making it one of the best-selling vehicles in the U.S. However, our tests found that recent F-150s have a stiff ride, unresponsive handling, and below average reliability. The Lightning, an EV version of the F-150, drives better and is faster than its gasoline equivalent. The Bronco SUVs has exceptional off-road ability and classic boxy styling, but suffers from issues like wind noise and long stopping distances.

The Maverick, based on the Bronco Sport and Escape SUVs, was the first-ever pickup truck to come standard as a hybrid. The base powertrain is a 191-hp, 2.5-liter hybrid four-cylinder linked to a continuously variable transmission and front-wheel drive. The non-hybrid version uses a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder with an eight-speed automatic and 4,000-pound tow capacity. It is available in front- and all-wheel drive. This small crew cab pickup has just a 4.5-foot bed. Three trims, plus an off-road package, allow this truck to span from thrifty, basic truck to a powerful, well-equipped model. The Maverick comes standard with FCW and AEB. BSW, RCTW, and other systems are available. A 2025 refresh brought a larger center screen and updated infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The climate controls were moved into the touch screen. All Maverick models received refreshed styling, with updated headlamps and a redesigned front bumper and grille. All-wheel-drive became standard on the non-hybrid models. The optional Tremor off-road package began being offered as a standalone trim, while a new, performance oriented Lobo trim was added, bringing the total number of non-hybrid trims offered to five. LDW and LKA became standard.