The Ford Maverick adds AWD to its hybrid lineup

The hybrid Maverick originally only came with front-wheel drive, so you previously had to opt for the gas-only version if you needed to play pretend F-150 for some tasks (and didn’t want to change your whole personality).

The new hybrid Maverick still has the same power capabilities as the previous year, even with AWD. It has a 2.5-liter hybrid engine with a 94kW electric motor that outputs 191 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque. The AWD model gets 40 miles per gallon in the city, while the FWD version gets 42. The truck can hold 13.8 gallons of fuel.

The cheapest Maverick, the XL, starts at $26,295, and the hybrid engine comes standard. If you want AWD, you’ll have to pay an additional $2,220 — but it comes included on the Lariat trim, which starts at $36,735. Both represent a significant markup over the 2022 hybrid Maverick, which started at just $20,000.

Fans of the Maverick might love or hate the new front fascia compared to the old crossbar plaque with logo. Whatever the case, it now has a modern Ford SUV-style grille and options for daytime running lights that look F-150-inspired.

Ford is also adding a 5G modem and a larger infotainment screen, now 13.2 inches. It’ll run on Ford’s latest Sync 4 software, which unfortunately is not the new Android-powered Ford Digital Experience, but it’ll at least serve you wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity. The bigger screen accommodates touchscreen buttons for HVAC, and the new 360-degree camera view.

If you opt for the Lariat or Temor (gas only) models, you will get Pro Trailer Hitch Assist and Pro Trailer Backup Assist standard, which helps Maverick owners who need to tow stuff.

There’s also a new Maverick Lobo model that’s not exactly designed for towing. Instead, it’s a street truck that rides lower and has a performance-tuned suspension. It’s also got a special interior with Lobo branding on the seats, a special “lobo mode” for use on the track, and Mach-E Rally-style wheels.

Ford says 60 percent of customers buying Maverick trucks are trading in vehicles from other brands — many of them from vehicles in other segments like small cars and SUVs. Since the Maverick isn’t gigantic like some of its truck brethren, yet it is still useful and cheap, it’s easy for people to get behind.