When the Ford Maverick pickup was introduced a few years back, it was a huge hit. Not only was it very affordable, capable, utilitarian, and fun to drive, but you could get a fuel-sipping hybrid as well. Ford’s gamble on the Maverick paid huge dividends and caught almost every automaker off guard.
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Hyundai’s Santa Cruz came along at about the same time, but the Santa Cruz was a bit more car-like. Ford’s aim with the Maverick was to build an inexpensive pickup, one that could bring people over to the brand. In time, some of those conquest sales might step up to a Ranger or an F-150.
Ford has released some updates, upgrades, and new trims over the past three years. One of the biggest changes consumers asked for is an all-wheel drive (AWD) variant of the Maverick hybrid. I guess they listened.
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Lots of new features for 2025
The big news is that AWD is offered with the hybrid powertrain, with higher tow ratings throughout the line and lots of updated interior upgrades. It looks a bit different, and it has more safety gizmos too. In many ways, it’s like an all-new pickup.
The AWD system, which makes its first appearance in a Maverick Hybrid, is more advanced than some expected. Unlike other hybrid systems with AWD, like Toyota’s, the Maverick doesn’t use an electric motor to power the rear wheels. Instead, an actual driveshaft is hooked up to the transmission with a clutch that activates when slippage is detected, sending power aft. An intelligent traction control system routes power where needed by triggering the correct wheel to force the power to the wheel that needs it.
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There is no locker or center clutch to lock the front and rear axle, so power from the eCVT is fed to the system as needed. It’s not for off-roading, that is saved for the Maverick FX4 package and Tremor trim, but those don’t come as hybrids. The Ford Maverick Hybrid can also tow up to 4,000 lbs when equipped with the tow package.
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The interior received some love, too
Much of the interior remains the same, but there are some noticeable changes up front. The poorly executed 8-inch screen has been replaced by a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment screen with available wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An available 360-degree can aid in parking, and there’s a tow assist hook-up function, too.
The Maverick now has lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high-beam headlamps. A higher-level ACC system with lane centering and speed limit recognition is available in the Lariat and Tremor.
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The new Lobo trim joins the pack for 2025
The 2025 Ford Maverick Lobo is a new, street-performance version of the little pickup, and it’s more than just a beauty package. Ford installed a seven-speed transmission instead of the regular Maverick’s eight-speed, with different shift parameters and paddle shifters. It’s hooked up to a higher-performing transmission cooler and a twin-clutch rear end that does mechanical torque vectoring.
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The Maverick Lobo is also lowered, with a higher performance suspension geared for fast tarmac foolery. There’s a quicker steering ratio, beefed-up brakes, and unique 19-inch wheels with sportier tires to complete the package.
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With new features comes a higher price tag
Unfortunately, the Maverick’s price keeps increasing. The base models are still affordable, but they’re far from their original $22,000 price tag. The base model, the Maverick XL, starts at $26,650 with a 2.5-liter hybrid engine that makes 191 horsepower. The Maverick XLT starts at $25,050 with either the hybrid or the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that makes 238 horsepower. The Lobo only comes with the turbo and has a base price of $35,255.
Maverick Lariats start at $37,290, and the Ford Maverick Tremor, which comes standard with 4WD, has a base price of $40,350. AWD will cost you an extra $2,220, but if you opt for the turbo engine, you’ll get standard AWD/4WD.
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Final thoughts
Do you find it odd that Ford lowered the turbo’s output from 250 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque to 238 hp and 272 lb-ft of torque? I was told that it’s hard to tell and that it makes for a smoother powertrain.
That said, I concluded that the changes, though welcome, are not enough to make it “all-new.” Still, many Maverick fans have plenty to be happy about. I’m not totally sold on the new front-end design, but that may change over time.
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I honestly believe the Ford Maverick is one of the best ideas the automaker has hatched in many years. Some have complained about quality, reliability, and a stiff ride, but perhaps some of those issues will be addressed in time.
The bottom line is that this is still a great deal for one of the most utilitarian vehicles on the road. With the expanded lineup, there is a Maverick that caters to so many more buyers that I still can’t believe other automakers (other than Hyundai) don’t have an answer for it.
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