This week on the show Car guideour experts Antoine Joubert and Gabriel Gélinas tested the 2022 Ford Maverick Hybrid, a coveted pickup truck.
“The Maverick name is making a comeback at Ford. At first it was a small compact car. Today, a sign of the times, it’s a compact van,” explains Gabriel.
It is also the least expensive vehicle marketed at Ford, given the abandonment of sedans and the small EcoSport. On the technical side, the Maverick shares its chassis and several mechanical components with the Ford Escape.
Photo: Antony Lajoie-Beaudoin
Conservative design
“Aesthetically, the vehicle does not impress. It’s not ugly, [mais] it’s not pretty either,” comments Antoine. Its only competitor, the Hyundai Santa Cruz, sports a design that is much more daring.
Since our experts test the base XL version, the interior sports a style focused on function rather than beauty. “It’s a plastic finish, but it’s solid,” remarks Antoine.
Photo: Antony Lajoie-Beaudoin
Efficient hybrid mechanics
“What is also really remarkable is that it is up to date insofar as there is a hybrid engine and consumption is very efficient”, rejoices Gabriel. In fact, the 2.5-litre four-cylinder paired with an electric motor only consumes an average of 6.3 L/100 km.
On the other hand, the animators are sorry for the absence of all-wheel drive with the hybrid version. It is nevertheless accessible with the petrol variant. In driving, the Maverick behaves like a small SUV. Antoine also notes the comfort, good visibility and maneuverability of the van among his strengths.
For the impressions of our experts, see the video capsule at the top of this article.
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