26 MPG combined from the 2024 Ford Maverick FWD 2.0L won’t win any hypermiling contests, but it paints a clear picture: you’re getting a compact pickup that prioritizes utility and affordability without completely abandoning efficiency. This isn’t a Prius; it’s a truck capable of hauling building supplies or weekend camping gear, and this fuel economy represents a reasonable compromise for buyers who need those capabilities but don’t want to be saddled with the abysmal gas mileage of a full-size pickup.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down the Maverick’s fuel efficiency further, showing 23 MPG in the city and a more respectable 30 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the demands of stop-and-go traffic, where the 2.0L engine works harder and the automatic transmission cycles frequently. The highway number is where the Maverick shines, thanks to its 8-speed transmission which allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs, maximizing efficiency. This spread is fairly typical for a vehicle of this type and suggests that owners who do a lot of highway driving will see fuel economy closer to the advertised 30 MPG. For city dwellers, the 23 MPG figure is a more realistic expectation, and one they hopefully factored into the purchase.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Ford Maverick FWD 2.0L at $1,700. This calculation is based on 15,000 miles of driving per year and the national average fuel price. This figure provides a useful benchmark for potential buyers to compare the Maverick against other vehicles they might be considering, and it’s a good starting point to determine if the Maverick’s fuel costs align with their budget. It’s critical to remember that individual fuel costs can vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific type of driving (city vs. highway).

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates fuel economy using standardized testing procedures, real-world mileage can deviate significantly. Factors such as driving style, weather conditions, tire pressure, and even the grade of gasoline used can all impact fuel efficiency. Aggressive acceleration and braking, carrying heavy loads, and driving in extreme temperatures will all negatively affect MPG.

Conversely, smooth driving, regular maintenance, and using the recommended tire pressure can help achieve results closer to the EPA estimates. For those interested, you can research MAVERICK MPG across all years to develop your own estimates.

How it compares

The Maverick’s fuel economy stands in an interesting space. Compared to a traditional body-on-frame pickup truck, it’s a clear winner. A full-size Ford F-150 with a comparable 2.7L EcoBoost V6 might only achieve around 20 MPG combined. However, against other compact crossovers or sedans, the Maverick’s 26 MPG combined might seem less impressive.

A Honda CR-V, for example, offers around 30 MPG combined in its FWD configuration. The Toyota Corolla Hybrid achieves over 50 MPG. The Hyundai Santa Cruz, another compact pickup, gets around 22 MPG combined with its base engine and FWD, making the Maverick a more economical choice there. The crucial element is recognizing the trade-off: the Maverick is offering truck utility in a relatively fuel-efficient package. Consumers looking at all Ford fuel economy data should keep relative vehicle class in mind.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One of the easiest ways to improve fuel economy in the 2.0L Maverick is to adopt a smoother driving style. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these maneuvers waste fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible. Think ahead to avoid unnecessary stops.

Regular maintenance is important for optimal fuel efficiency. Ensure the tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. Also, keep up with scheduled oil changes and air filter replacements. A clean air filter allows the engine to breathe easier, which can improve fuel economy.

Minimize carrying unnecessary weight in the truck bed. The heavier the load, the harder the engine has to work, and the more fuel it consumes. Remove any items you don’t need to carry on a regular basis. If hauling cargo, ensure it’s properly secured to minimize wind resistance.

Avoid idling for extended periods. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, it’s more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, with minimal impact on fuel consumption. This is especially important in urban driving, where idling can be a significant contributor to poor fuel economy.

Consider using cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed, which can help improve fuel economy. However, be mindful of using it in hilly terrain, as the transmission may downshift frequently, negating some of the benefits. Experiment to see what works best on your regular routes.