Consumer Reports has pretty strict rules about what makes the cut and what doesn’t. Because of these rules, trucks rarely do well on their rating scale. Yet for years, the Honda Ridgeline has impressed CR critics more than any other truck. The 2023 Ford Maverick and Maverick Hybrid have supplanted Honda’s foray into pickup trucks.
The 2023 Ford Maverick Hybrid is Consumer Reports’ Best Pickup Truck
That’s how it is. At last the time has come. Consumer Reports it has gone from the Honda Ridgeline to a major new version. The 2023 Ford Maverick Hybrid outperformed all other trucks in Consumer Reports, large and small. The non-hybrid Maverick came next. Then the 2023 Honda Ridgeline.
For years, CR loved the Ridgeline because of its one-piece construction, excellent reliability, decent gas mileage, and comfortable ride. Ultimately, this is what CR looks for in every vehicle, regardless of segment or intended purpose.
Now, we can assume that the 2023 Ford Maverick platform has had the same beats, and then some since beating out the Honda Ridgeline. We’ll see.
Is the Ford Maverick Hybrid a good truck?
The 2023 Ford Maverick scored higher than any other truck this year for several reasons. Frankly, the Maverick review is a field of green. From fuel economy (37 mpg combined) to reliability, the Maverick Hybrid knocked the house down.
The 2023 Ford Maverick Hybrid puts its 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine to good use by squeezing 191 hp out of its walls. That power is sent to the front wheels via the CVT, which “shifts” smoothly for an enjoyable driving experience.
The Maverick comes standard with this hybrid powerplant, but there’s a 2.0-liter turbo version that makes 250 hp. This version still outperformed the Honda Ridgeline. In fact, CR points out that the turbo is slightly quicker than the Ridgeline. While the Ridgeline still rides smoother, the Maverick’s suspension holds the cabin surprisingly well, given its starting stiffness.
2023 Ford Maverick interior
CR had less good things to say about the interior details. In the reviewer’s own words, “Refinement was clearly not a high priority for the Maverick.” The cabin is said to get quite noisy: wind and engine noise filter in with little protection, especially on the highway. But even at low revs, you can feel some vibrations in the cabin. However, the hybrid version is said to be a bit quieter and more comfortable. While the interior is utilitarian and practical, it’s littered with hard plastics. But that comes with a very useful infotainment interface, big buttons and simple controls.
What is the best version of the Ford Maverick?
Consumer Reports not only ranked the hybrid first, but also tells readers that the hybrid is the clear choice between the two. The only real drawback to the Hybrid is that it only comes in FWD. This is a strange fact for a truck, but the truth is that many truck drivers never need 4WD anyway. If you need AWD though, the turbocharged version is your cranberry.