Should I really go for a Ford Maverick or not?

Seeking Help
1

I’m driving a 12-year-old Ford Focus hatchback with nearly 150K miles. It’s been reliable but the repairs are starting to add up. I think it’s time for a new or lightly used car.

Here’s what I’m considering:

  • It’s me and two kids (11 and almost 5). My older kid might be big enough for the front seat soon, but I’m wondering how the back seat space will be as my little one grows.
  • I’m in northern California and love outdoor activities like camping and hiking. My Focus struggles to get to trailheads on rough forest roads.
  • I’ve been dreaming of a better camping setup—maybe a pop-up trailer or a rooftop tent.
  • I own a canoe but can’t transport it with my current car.
  • I bike with my kids and want a vehicle where I can just throw bikes in instead of fiddling with a bike rack.
  • I commute a couple of times a week to a busy downtown area with parking garages, so size and fuel economy are important.
  • Luxury features don’t matter to me; I just want something functional.
  • My budget is $30K.

I’ve been thinking about small or midsize SUVs but have always wanted a small truck. We had an F150 in the past, but it was too much truck for me to drive daily, and the gas mileage was awful.

Is the Maverick Hybrid a bad idea for me? I’m open to hearing other recommendations in my price range.

2

The back seat space is decent. I’m over 6ft tall, and my family (who are mostly tall) fits fine. Keep in mind that the hybrid version has slightly less under-seat storage due to the battery placement.

3

I thought the back seat dimensions were the same between the hybrid and EcoBoost? Isn’t the only difference the raised floor for the hybrid battery?

4

Yes, the floor is raised about an inch in the hybrid. It’s a small difference, but it can affect legroom slightly.

5

Got it. I’ve been in the back of both and didn’t really notice, but I can see how it might matter for taller passengers.

6

I loved the idea of the Maverick, but when the base model that was supposed to be $19K is only selling for $35K, it doesn’t feel worth it anymore.

7

Are you talking about markups?

8

It’s not just markups; MSRP increases too.

9

My EcoBoost Maverick gets 30 MPG if I keep my speed reasonable. You can also add racks to the bed or a hitch extender for long items like a canoe. Makes loading easier too.

10

That’s good to hear. My Focus doesn’t do much better than 30 MPG these days, so it’s definitely worth considering.

11

Skip the 2024 model and wait for the 2025 instead. You’re welcome. :sunglasses:

12

Is that because the 2025 will have the hybrid with AWD? If so, I agree!

13

Wait… hybrid with AWD in 2025? You might have just sold me on waiting!

14

Fingers crossed they add a plug-in hybrid AWD option soon!

15

Or just buy a used one now. There are plenty out there.

16

Have you considered a Subaru Outback? It sounds like a great fit for your needs, and it’s perfect for outdoor adventures.

17

An Outback with a canoe rack and a bike rack on the hitch would be ideal.

18

Subarus are fantastic for families and outdoor stuff.

19

It honestly sounds like the Maverick ticks all your boxes. Good for camping, accessible bed for loading gear, decent interior space, and great MPG if you go with the hybrid. The only thing to check is whether the bed size works for your needs—canoes and bikes can take up a lot of room. If you need more space, maybe look at a Ranger or Colorado.

20

Good point about the space. I’d definitely need a rack for the canoe no matter what. Bikes I’m less concerned about since they’re small.