Ford Maverick Hybrid: A Year Later, Still the Smartest Buy?

After 12 months and 22,000 miles with our long-term Ford Maverick Hybrid, we're more convinced than ever: this is the smartest vehicle purchase in America right now.

The numbers speak for themselves. We averaged 42 mpg in mixed driving — that's better than most compact cars, in a pickup truck. Over the course of a year, we spent approximately $1,800 on fuel, compared to an estimated $3,200 for a comparable gasoline truck.

The 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine paired with an electric motor produces a modest 191 hp, which is perfectly adequate for daily driving and light hauling. The CVT transmission is unremarkable but reliable.

What makes the Maverick special is its value proposition. At $28,595, you get a hybrid powertrain, a usable bed, and running costs that embarrass vehicles twice its price. Ford has sold over 200,000 units since launch, and the waiting list still stretches months.

Our only complaints: the infotainment system is sluggish, and the base cloth seats show wear quickly. Minor quibbles for such an outstanding package.