For any pickup truck, 37 MPG combined is a remarkable figure and the main selling point for the 2023 Ford Maverick HEV. This isn’t your grandpa’s gas-guzzling work truck, though. The Maverick HEV appeals to a different kind of buyer with its front-wheel drive setup and its 2.5L four-cylinder hybrid powertrain. It’s for the budget-conscious urban dweller who needs occasional truck utility but prioritizes fuel efficiency above all else. These buyers are willing to trade some power and outright capability for significantly lower running costs, and Ford has nailed that compromise.

City and highway performance

The EPA’s city fuel economy rating of 40 MPG is where the Maverick HEV truly shines. Its hybrid system blends gasoline and electric power, maximizing efficiency in stop-and-go traffic where traditional trucks hemorrhage fuel. The 33 MPG highway figure, while lower, is still impressive for a pickup. It reflects the increased reliance on the gasoline engine at higher speeds. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) contributes to this efficiency by always keeping the engine in its optimal RPM range. While some drivers find CVTs to be less engaging than traditional automatics, its effects on fuel economy are hard to argue with. However, many owners appreciate the cost savings at the pump as a result.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Ford Maverick HEV at $1,200. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. For many truck buyers, especially those who previously owned full-size pickups, this is a large reduction in their annual transportation expenses. This cost savings addresses a key concern for this demographic: affordability.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a benchmark, but real-world MPG can vary depending on driving habits, terrain, and climate. Drivers who frequently haul heavy loads or tow trailers will likely see a dip in fuel economy. However, those who primarily drive in city environments with gentle acceleration and braking can often exceed the EPA’s estimates. The Maverick HEV’s driver information display provides real-time feedback on fuel consumption, allowing drivers to consciously adjust their behavior to optimize efficiency. Expect to see numbers above 40 MPG on your daily commute if you drive conservatively.

How it compares

The Maverick HEV occupies a unique space in the market. Few direct competitors offer similar combinations of truck utility and hybrid fuel economy. Traditional compact pickups like the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier struggle to match its efficiency. A 2023 Toyota Tacoma 4×2 with the 2.7L 4-cylinder engine only achieves 21 MPG combined. The Maverick HEV’s closest rival in terms of fuel economy is arguably a small SUV or hatchback. A Toyota Corolla Hybrid, for instance, manages around 50 MPG combined. However, it lacks the Maverick’s open bed and cargo-carrying versatility, which is essential for buyers who occasionally need to haul bulky items or tackle DIY projects. If you are looking for all Ford fuel economy data, you’ll see that even the most efficient gas-only Ford trucks can’t touch the Maverick HEV. For more on the MAVERICK MPG across all years, see our dedicated pages. The Hyundai Santa Cruz, while stylish and refined, is also significantly less fuel efficient, achieving around 22 MPG Combined in its base four-cylinder configuration.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking are key to maximizing the Maverick HEV’s fuel economy. The hybrid system relies on regenerative braking to recapture energy, so smooth stops allow the system to work more effectively. Avoid aggressive driving habits, such as rapid acceleration and hard braking, as these actions deplete the battery charge and force the gasoline engine to work harder.

Use the Maverick HEV’s “Eco” drive mode to optimize fuel efficiency. This mode adjusts throttle response and other vehicle settings to prioritize fuel conservation. While it may slightly reduce performance, the difference is often negligible in city driving, and the fuel savings can be significant.

Keep your tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes, as fluctuations in temperature can affect tire pressure.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the truck bed. Extra weight increases the load on the engine, reducing fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need to carry regularly, such as tools or equipment.