Is The 2022 Ford Maverick A Good Truck? What To Know
2022 Ford Maverick by Elise240SX - CC-BY-SA-4.0
Somewhere along the way, as trucks become more capable and luxury-laden, they’re also growing in size. For some people, large trucks are too big and might be a tad overkill. Thankfully, although not as prevalent as popular large trucks such as the Ford F-150 and RAM 1500, compact trucks provide a happy medium between size and capability.
One of the more noteworthy midsize trucks recently is the Ford Maverick. In the 1970s, “Maverick” was the name of a compact car. Now, Ford has revived the Maverick name, but this time, it’s for a compact pickup truck. If you’re interested in getting behind the wheel of a compact truck, the re-released 2022 Maverick is certainly a good place to start.
But is the 2022 Ford Maverick a good truck? For today’s post, we highlight some of the Maverick’s key qualities and potential flaws to help with your purchasing decision. Let’s dive right in.
Engine, Performance, and Fuel Economy
With Ford’s focus on green technology, the 2022 Maverick breaks the mold by having a hybrid powertrain as the base engine. At the heart of the lineup sits a nifty 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) – a fuel-efficient configuration while still packing enough punch for your everyday drives and those not-so-heavy lifting jobs. This hybrid powerhouse churns out a respectable 191 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque. However, this base engine is only available with front-wheel drive.
On the other hand, Ford offers an optional 2.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder engine for those seeking more power and capability. This engine is coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing a more spirited driving experience with 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This configuration does have all-wheel drive as an option, so it’s your only choice if you’re planning to tackle more challenging road conditions.
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However, when it comes to steering and handling, the Maverick shows its traditional truck roots, for better or worse. The steering lacks certain tactile feedback, and drivers might grapple with noticeable body roll during sharper turns. Another common feedback is that the ride quality can feel a tad rigid, especially when navigating through mid-corner disruptions on the road.
For fuel economy, The 2022 Maverick’s hybrid model stands out for its fuel efficiency, offering an EPA-estimated rating of 42 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, and 37 mpg combined – making it one of the most fuel-efficient trucks in the market. Conversely, The EcoBoost engine, while less fuel-efficient than the hybrid, offers competitive fuel economy for a gasoline-powered compact truck, with an EPA-estimated rating of 23 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined (for front-wheel drive models). Feel free to visit the EPA’s website for a more detailed look into the 2022 Maverick’s fuel economy.
Interior and Tech Features
The 2022 Ford Maverick’s interior screams simplicity and functionality, making it ideal for those who appreciate a no-nonsense approach to truck cabin design. Plus, the layout is straightforward, so ease of use shouldn’t be an issue.
Entering the Maverick might require a bit of a bob and weave for taller folks, but once you settle in, the cabin offers a surprisingly generous amount of headroom. Moreover, the seating posture is notably upright, with good road visibility. However, it’s worth mentioning that the seat and steering wheel adjustments are somewhat limited; it might take some time to find that perfect driving position.
Regarding the back seat, the Maverick makes it clear that it’s a compact truck. The legroom in the rear is cozy, but passengers may wish for more space to stretch out. Similarly, the area beneath the front seats leaves little room for the feet, resulting in a snug fit.
Tech-wise, the 2022 Ford Maverick keeps things basic, especially when you opt for the base setup without the additional bells and whistles of the Luxury package. At the heart of its tech offerings is an 8-inch touchscreen display that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, audiophiles might think the standard stereo system is underwhelming in volume and sound quality. It’s functional for everyday listening, but those who crave a rich audio experience must look elsewhere.
FORD MAVERICK GROUND CLEARANCE
If you’re interested in this car, it’s critical to consider all aspects of the vehicle - including the Ford Maverick ground clearance.
Safety Features and Ratings
Is the 2022 Ford Maverick a good truck? For many of you, the answer lies in its ability to keep drivers and passengers safe. For this truck, safety and driver-assist features are nothing too crazy, including these standard offerings:
- Automatic Emergency Braking: This system can help prevent collisions or reduce their severity by automatically applying the brakes if a potential impact is detected.
- Forward Collision Warning: Alerts the driver to an imminent collision with a vehicle ahead, giving them more time to react.
- Rear View Camera: Offers a clear view of the space behind the truck so that you can reverse without worry.
- Lane Keeping Assist: Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane, reducing the risk of accidental lane departures.
However, if you want access to advanced driving aids like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blindspot monitoring, you’ll have to get the luxury package. These features are standard in other small trucks like the Hyundai Santa Cruz. For safety ratings, the Maverick received a respectable 4-star rating from the NHTSA, while it had a so-so performance with the IIHS Crashworthiness tests.
Long-Term Reliability and Lifespan
While it’s a newer lineup of trucks, the 2022 Ford Maverick has received numerous complaints. The NHTSA is littered with complaints about this truck, and some of the areas of concern include the service brakes, electrical system, and engine. These reported issues put the Maverick’s long-term reliability into question.
As for its lifespan, the Maverick truck is expected to last for as many as 200,000 miles, provided it’s well taken care of.
HOW LONG DO FORD MAVERICKS LAST?
If you’re looking into a Ford Maverick as a potential future purchase, it’s a good idea to ponder the lifespan. Ask yourself - how long do Ford Mavericks last under careful ownership?
Final Verdict: Is The 2022 Ford Maverick A Good Truck?
If you want a compact truck that looks and drives like a truck without the SUV or car-like nonsense, then the 2022 Ford Maverick is for you. While it might not set your heart racing with its drive quality or turn heads with radical styling, the Maverick holds its own as a solid workhorse – especially with its accessible price point.
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