2025 Ford Maverick Hybrid AWD: The Small Truck That Thinks It’s Big
The Ford Maverick might just be the most intriguing vehicle to come out of the truck world in recent years. It’s small—by truck standards—but it’s packed with features, smart design, and, most importantly, a hybrid powertrain that promises efficiency that’ll make your wallet smile. But this isn’t just a truck for eco-warriors and city slickers who need something to throw their bikes in. No, Ford has taken the Maverick and injected it with a bit more brawn, offering an all-wheel-drive (AWD) hybrid version for 2025.
Now, this little truck with big aspirations can tackle more than just Home Depot runs and city parking lots. It’s trying to prove it can handle the dirt, the mud, and maybe even tow a decent-sized trailer—all while keeping fuel stops to a minimum. But is it really up to the task, or is the Maverick AWD just a cute idea that lacks the muscle of its bigger F-150 sibling? Let’s find out.
Design: Small But Bold
First impressions matter, and the 2025 Ford Maverick isn’t shy about trying to stand out. Ford has cleverly managed to give this compact truck some proper attitude, making it look tougher than its size would suggest. It’s got a chunky, boxy design that lets you know it means business, with a big, bold front grille that looks like it belongs on a much larger vehicle. The squared-off headlights and strong, upright stance give it the kind of visual presence you’d expect from a full-size pickup, not something you can fit in a tight parking space at the grocery store.
From the side, the Maverick’s proportions are nicely balanced. The wheel arches are flared just enough to give it a rugged look, and the bed is functional without looking like an afterthought. It’s clearly designed to appeal to people who want a truck that’s practical but don’t need the massive size of a traditional pickup. The rear end is simple but effective, with taillights that wrap around the edges and a tailgate that can handle its fair share of wear and tear.
Compared to its direct rivals—think Hyundai Santa Cruz and the Honda Ridgeline—the Maverick looks more like a proper truck. It’s got that “built Ford tough” aesthetic, which is key to winning over buyers who might otherwise scoff at the idea of a smaller, more efficient truck.
Step inside the 2025 Ford Maverick Hybrid AWD, and you’ll immediately notice that Ford has prioritized functionality over luxury. But don’t get me wrong—it’s not a bad thing. This is a truck designed for people who actually want to use it, not just show off to their neighbors. The materials are durable, hard-wearing plastics that feel built to last, but there’s enough soft-touch material in the right places to keep things from feeling too utilitarian.
The seats are comfortable and supportive, with enough adjustment to keep drivers of all shapes and sizes happy on long drives. The cabin feels spacious, especially for a truck of this size, with plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The rear seats fold up to reveal additional storage underneath, perfect for stashing tools, gear, or anything else you don’t want rolling around in the bed.
Technology-wise, the Maverick is well-equipped, though not overly tech-heavy like some of its rivals. The center stack features an 8-inch touchscreen with Ford’s SYNC 4 infotainment system, which is intuitive and responsive. There’s wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, because of course there is, and Ford has smartly kept physical buttons for key controls like climate and volume. It’s all very straightforward, and that’s exactly what you want in a truck.
Ford hasn’t gone crazy with the luxury features, but there are a few nice touches. You can opt for a Bang & Olufsen sound system, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel if you fancy a bit more comfort. There’s also an available 110-volt outlet in the bed, which is perfect for powering tools or charging devices on the go.
Driving Experience: Small Size, Big Heart
Now, let’s get to the real question: How does the 2025 Ford Maverick Hybrid AWD drive? In short, it’s a bit of a revelation. The Maverick comes with a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 191 horsepower and 173 lb-ft of torque. That might not sound like much, especially in a world where full-size trucks are cranking out 400+ horsepower, but remember, the Maverick is light, nimble, and has AWD.
The hybrid powertrain is impressively smooth, delivering instant torque from the electric motor and making the Maverick feel quick off the line. It’s not going to win any drag races, but for city driving, merging onto highways, and even light off-roading, the Maverick has more than enough grunt. The AWD system is responsive, sending power to the wheels that need it most, making the truck feel stable and sure-footed on all surfaces.
The Maverick’s handling is another strong point. It’s more agile than you’d expect from a pickup, with light, accurate steering that makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The suspension is well-tuned, striking a nice balance between comfort and capability. You can take it over rough roads and gravel trails without shaking your teeth out, but it’s also comfortable enough for everyday driving. It’s not as floaty as some of the larger trucks, which is a relief because nobody likes feeling like they’re driving a boat.
Where the Maverick really shines, though, is in its fuel efficiency. With the hybrid powertrain, Ford claims the Maverick AWD will get around 40 mpg in the city, which is unheard of for a truck. That’s better than most compact sedans and makes the Maverick a no-brainer for people who want the practicality of a truck without the gas-guzzling guilt. For a lot of buyers, this might be the Maverick’s biggest selling point.
While the 2025 Maverick Hybrid AWD is designed for urban environments, it’s more capable than you’d expect when the going gets tough. Ford has equipped it with an intelligent AWD system that can handle dirt, mud, and snow without breaking a sweat. The ground clearance is respectable, and while it’s not a hardcore off-roader like a Ford Bronco, it’s more than capable of tackling light trails, dirt roads, and rough terrain on your weekend adventures.
The towing capacity is where things get interesting. The Maverick Hybrid AWD can tow up to 2,000 pounds, which isn’t earth-shattering, but it’s more than enough for a small trailer, a couple of dirt bikes, or a boat. If you need more pulling power, you’ll want to opt for the non-hybrid version with the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, which can tow up to 4,000 pounds. But for most people, the hybrid’s towing capacity will be more than sufficient.
The bed is another area where the Maverick punches above its weight. It’s not as big as a full-size truck’s bed, but at 4.5 feet, it’s still functional. You can haul plenty of gear, and Ford has included its clever FlexBed system, which lets you customize the bed with dividers, racks, and tie-downs. Whether you’re hauling lumber, bikes, or camping gear, the Maverick’s bed is versatile enough to handle it all.
Practicality and Everyday Use: The Ultimate City Truck
One of the reasons the Maverick has been so well-received is that it’s genuinely practical for everyday use. Its smaller size makes it easy to park in tight city spaces, and its fuel efficiency means you won’t be spending a fortune at the pump. The hybrid powertrain is quiet, smooth, and stress-free, making it a great option for commuting or running errands.
The cabin is spacious enough for a family of four, and the rear seats are more comfortable than you’d expect from a compact truck. The under-seat storage is a nice touch, and the Maverick’s layout makes it easy to live with day in and day out. It’s not trying to be a luxury truck, but it’s far from being basic.
And let’s not forget the price. Starting at around $27,000, the Maverick Hybrid AWD is one of the most affordable trucks on the market. It’s cheaper than almost all of its rivals, and when you factor in the fuel savings from the hybrid powertrain, it’s an absolute bargain. Ford has managed to create a truck that’s practical, efficient, and affordable, all while maintaining the versatility that makes pickups so appealing.
Of course, no truck is perfect, and the 2025 Maverick Hybrid AWD has its limitations. For one, while it’s capable of handling light off-roading, it’s not going to replace a true off-road vehicle like a Ford Ranger or a Toyota Tacoma. If you’re planning on tackling serious trails, the Maverick might leave you wanting more.
The towing capacity is also a bit limited for a truck, especially when compared to larger models. If you’re planning on hauling heavy loads regularly, the hybrid Maverick might not be up to the task. You’ll need to look at the non-hybrid version if towing is a priority.
And while the interior is functional, it’s not exactly luxurious. The materials are durable but not particularly plush, and there’s a noticeable lack of high-end features like leather upholstery or a larger infotainment screen. But then again, that’s not what the Maverick is about—it’s a practical, affordable truck that gets the job done without frills.
The 2025 Ford Maverick Hybrid AWD is perfect for buyers who need a truck but don’t want the size, expense, or fuel consumption that typically comes with one. It’s ideal for city dwellers who want the versatility of a pickup but still need something that’s easy to park and fuel-efficient. If you’re someone who enjoys outdoor activities but doesn’t need a full-size truck, the Maverick is a fantastic choice.
It’s also a great option for families or individuals on a budget. The price is hard to beat, especially considering the Maverick’s hybrid powertrain and AWD capabilities. You’ll save money on gas without sacrificing the practicality that makes trucks so appealing.
The 2025 Ford Maverick Hybrid AWD is a breath of fresh air in the truck world. It’s proof that you don’t need a massive, fuel-guzzling beast to get the job done. With its efficient hybrid powertrain, AWD capability, and practical design, the Maverick is the perfect blend of city-friendly size and truck functionality.
Ford has managed to create a small truck that thinks it’s big, and that’s a good thing. The Maverick is the ultimate proof that sometimes, less really is more.
