Is the 2025 Ford Maverick Hybrid the Best Small Pickup Truck?

The 2025 Ford Maverick Hybrid has carved out a lane of its own in a segment that barely knew it needed a revolution. As auto reviewer Kirk Kreifels puts it: “Nothing comes close.”

From the all-new all-wheel drive option to the jaw-dropping real-world 42 mpg, Ford’s given the Maverick quite the update. It’s a wake-up call to every other brand still asleep at the wheel. Here’s a rundown of Kirk’s incredible review—and why this truck belongs in your driveway.

1. It’s Ridiculously Efficient.

Kirk clocked 42 miles per gallon in real-world use. Not on a closed test track. Not with hypermiling tricks. In daily driving, including a highway stint behind a Ferrari F40 (no, really).

This hybrid doesn’t just beat out other small trucks—it runs circles around them. Even Ford’s own turbocharged Maverick trims can’t touch the Hybrid’s fuel economy. If you’re commuting around Stuart or hopping on I-95 for weekend trips, the Maverick Hybrid makes your gas money go absurdly far.

2. The Updates Actually Matter.

This isn’t just a refresh for looks. The 2025 model brings meaningful upgrades:

• All-wheel drive is now available with the hybrid powertrain.
• The Maverick’s towing capacity jumps to 4,000 pounds with the proper package.
• A new 13-inch touchscreen takes center stage.
• It features a very solid ride quality.
• The brakes are vastly improved. Kirk called them “predictable” and “fantastic.”

If you tested a previous model and didn’t love the brake feel—try this one. It’s a whole new truck.

3. It Drives Like a Dream.

The Maverick Hybrid doesn’t try to be a muscle truck. That’s exactly why it works so well. The hybrid system (191 horsepower from a 2.5L engine and electric motor combo) isn’t flashy, but it’s fast enough, quiet, and wildly smooth. The ECVT transmission is responsive. Transitions from electric to gas? Barely noticeable.

On city streets, it’s maneuverable and compact. On the highway, it feels stable and planted—like a much more expensive vehicle. And yes, it’s quiet. The Maverick’s well-built cabin does its job, mile after mile.

4. It’s Practical in All the Right Ways.

From the sprayed-in bedliner and rear outlets to the clever under-seat storage and comfortable rear seats, everything in this truck has a purpose. Check out all these features:

• Heated seats and steering wheel.
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Rear parking sensors, full-size spare, and even USB-Cs in the back.
• Push-button start and power mirrors.

Whether you’re loading up garden mulch, heading to work, or running errands around Stuart, FL, the Maverick Hybrid just works—with no wasted space or features.

5. It’s Still Affordable.

This is the part that blows people away. Kirk found 2025 models going for around $26K in Florida. That’s with serious equipment and features. In a world where midsize trucks are pushing 50 grand and up, the Maverick is value-packed.

It’s not trying to impress you with macho trim packages and over-the-top styling. It’s just a truck that delivers exceptional value in a segment where that’s almost unheard of.

So… Is It the Best Small Pickup Truck? See for Yourself!

If you define “best” as the one that blends fuel economy, real-world usability, ride quality, and price better than anything else out there—then absolutely yes. It’s no wonder Kirk ranked it at the very top of his buy list.

And if you’re in the Stuart, FL area and looking for a truck that actually makes sense in your life, the 2025 Ford Maverick Hybrid is ready to prove it. Stop by Essential Ford of Stuart today or call us at (727) 287-0955 and check one out. Just be warned: one test drive might be all it takes! And in the meantime, view our latest inventory online.