2025 Ford Maverick Review Shows Hybrid Power on a Budget

Editor: Diksha Yadav on May 27,2025

The 2025 Ford Maverick is still shaking up the truck segment for 2025 thanks to its compact construction, sweet hybrid vehicle performance, and mind-blowing affordability. While full-size trucks are beginning to cost $70,000 and even midsize trucks are now flirting with luxury SUV prices, the Maverick is paving the way for truck buyers who want utility without the heft and without breaking the bank. This guide will provide a full review breakdown of the Ford Maverick 2025 to get you prepped to be behind the wheel.

With real-world driving impressions, hybrid Maverick testing, feature-by-feature breakdowns versus competitors like the Hyundai Santa Cruz, and more, this article will be your complete guide to assessing one of the most discussed small pickup trucks of 2025.

Ford Maverick 2025 Overview: What’s New This Year?

The Ford Maverick debuted in 2022 as a new contender in the compact truck market. Three years hence, the 2025 Maverick receives some updates, reflecting how it has refined its identity since its inception. Its original purpose is compact utility, focusing on value and fuel efficiency.

Key updates for 2025:

  • A slightly refreshed interior, improved materials, and layout
  • A new infotainment system with quicker response and a bigger screen
  • More standard safety technology, such as lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring
  • Revised hybrid powertrain for improved smoothness between gas and electric power
  • A revised off-road FX4 package, which features better terrain handling

While the 2025 Ford Maverick has made improvements and upgrades, the core of what it represents has remained true: a simple, spacious, fuel-efficient pickup truck that's still affordable and can be used in the daily grind.

Powertrain and Performance: Efficiency Meets Versatility

ford maverick green color edition in car showroom

The 2025 Maverick has two different powertrains: a standard hybrid and a turbocharged EcoBoost gasoline engine. For most buyers, the hybrid Maverick test is the magic.

1. Standard Hybrid (FWD only)

  • 2.5L Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder engine + electric motor
  • 191 combined horsepower
  • CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
  • EPA-estimated 42 MPG city / 33 MPG highway

This setup is ideal for urban commuters and weekend adventurers looking to save on fuel. It’s surprisingly peppy in city driving and effortlessly smooth in stop-and-go traffic.

2. 2.0L EcoBoost (Optional AWD)

  • 250 horsepower / 277 lb-ft torque
  • 8-speed automatic transmission
  • Available all-wheel drive

This is the choice for those needing more towing capacity (up to 4,000 lbs with the tow package) and off-road capability, especially when combined with the FX4 or Tremor package.

Hybrid Maverick Test Impressions:

Drivers say the hybrid system is very well-balanced and refined for 2025. Transitions between gas and electric performance are much smoother, and regenerative braking is much more natural.

Driving Experience: Compact Truck, Big Confidence

One of the most admirable aspects of this Ford Maverick 2025 review is how car-like it feels while in the driver’s seat. Built on a shared platform with the Ford Escape and Bronco Sport, the Maverick provides a sedan-like level of comfort and utility comparable to a truck's.

Highlights:

  • A tight turning radius makes parking and maneuvering through tight spaces easy.
  • Comfortable suspension smooths out most road imperfections pleasantly while being supportive enough not to feel soft.
  • Light steering avoids effort, but the light feel may be less desirable for off-roaders wanting to feel more connection to the terrain.
  • Some cabin noise can be heard while driving at speed, although this is much improved with the new insulation of the 2025 model.

Zipping past and weaving through city traffic or cruising on a weekend road trip, the Maverick makes almost any driving experience feel effortless, an impressive characteristic for any truck in the segment.

Interior Comfort and Technology

The 2025 Maverick balances practicality with modern tech. It’s not a luxury truck, and that’s intentional, but it doesn’t feel barebones either.

Cabin Design:

  • Spacious for a compact pickup, with good headroom and legroom even in the rear
  • Durable materials that are both easy to clean and family-friendly
  • Creative storage areas, including door slots that fit large water bottles and under-seat rear storage bins

Tech and Features:

  • Standard 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Upgraded SYNC 4 system with faster processing and improved graphics
  • Available wireless charging and premium B&O sound system on Lariat trims
  • Ford Co-Pilot360 suite now standard across all trims: includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot warning

Despite its budget-friendly price, the Maverick offers features typically reserved for pricier competitors.

Trim Levels and Pricing: Smart Options for Every Buyer

One reason the Maverick is so appealing in the affordable truck options space is its simple but effective trim lineup:

XL (Base) – ~$24,000

  • Best value if you’re looking for a work truck or minimal features
  • Still includes hybrid powertrain, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and basic safety

XLT – ~$26,500

  • Adds upgraded wheels, extra interior storage, cruise control, and rear armrest
  • A solid mid-tier option for most users

Lariat—~$30,000+

  • Heated seats and steering wheel, push-button start, premium tech, and leatherette touches
  • The most luxurious trim, but still undercutting many midsize trucks

Optional packages: FX4, Tremor, Luxury Package, and the Tech Pack add towing, off-road, or infotainment upgrades.

Utility and Practicality: Small Truck, Big Function

While it won’t match a full-size F-150, the Maverick does punch above its weight in utility, which is key to its success in the small pickup truck 2025 market.

Bed and Storage:

  • 4.5-foot bed fits bikes, tools, and weekend gear with ease
  • Built-in 12V and 110V outlets make it campsite or tailgate ready
  • Ford’s FLEXBED system includes slots for DIY bed dividers and modular tie-downs
  • Payload capacity up to 1,500 lbs, rivaling many midsize trucks

Towing:

  • Hybrid version: up to 2,000 lbs (sufficient for small trailers, boats, or dirt bikes)
  • EcoBoost + tow package: up to 4,000 lbs

Whether you’re hauling mulch or jet skis, the Maverick delivers in practical tasks most buyers need.

Ford vs Hyundai Santa Cruz: Compact Truck Showdown

No Ford Maverick 2025 full review would be complete without addressing its most direct competitor: the Hyundai Santa Cruz.

FeatureFord Maverick 2025Hyundai Santa Cruz 2025
Starting Price~$24,000~$27,000
Standard PowertrainHybrid (191 hp)2.5L Gas (191 hp)
MPG (city/highway)42 / 33 (Hybrid)22 / 26
Max Towing Capacity4,000 lbs5,000 lbs
Bed Length4.5 ft4.3 ft
Tech & Interior FinishFunctional & durableMore upscale

Verdict:

  • Choose the Maverick if you want better fuel economy, a lower price, and a work-first design
  • Choose the Santa Cruz if you value luxury touches and slightly higher towing capacity

The Maverick offers superior value for most buyers searching for a compact utility.

Who Should Buy the 2025 Ford Maverick?

The 2025 Ford Maverick is a smart buy for:

  • Urban drivers who want truck utility in a city-friendly size
  • First-time truck owners who prioritize price and MPG over raw power
  • DIYers who want weekend hauling without an oversized truck
  • Eco-conscious shoppers wanting a hybrid pickup
  • Young families needing versatile space on a budget

It may not be for you if:

  • You need to tow more than 4,000 lbs regularly
  • You want a full-size truck experience
  • You plan to do serious off-roading (though the FX4 and Tremor trims help)

Final Verdict: A Compact Truck That Delivers Big

In a mind-boggling marketplace dominated by oversized pickups and inflated price tags, the 2025 Ford Maverick is a breath of fresh air. With a combination of hybrid ingenuity, thoughtful stencils, and outstanding value, it is the truck of choice for those wanting to spend less, not those wishing to compromise!

The 2025 truck provides improved refreshment, additional tech, and even more fuel savings. But more importantly, this truck is inexpensive, fun, sensible, and surprisingly capable. Whether you consider yourself a truck person or a first-time buyer who values flexibility and seeks efficiency, the Maverick has continued shaping the small pickup truck landscape in 2025.


This content was created by AI