Compact Truck: 2026 Ford Maverick Lariat Hybrid AWD

Connie Peters loves this vibrant new color on an excellent truck: 2026 Ford Maverick. This is the hybrid with all-wheel drive.

Friend of the site Connie Peters reviews the new Ford Maverick hybrid. Take a look at the video or transcript below to see what she thinks. 

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A transcript, summarized by AI and edited by a staffer, is below.

[Image: YouTube Video Thumbnail]

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Summary: 2026 Ford Maverick Lariat Hybrid Review

The review highlights the 2026 Ford Maverick as an ideal compact pickup for buyers who occasionally need truck capability without the size, cost, or heaviness of a full-size pickup like the Ford F-150. It emphasizes the Maverick's practicality, approachable size, and everyday usability.

The reviewer is driving the Lariat Hybrid AWD trim, which features a new-for-2026 Fury Orange exterior color. The updated styling, including the distinctive grille and return to Ford's traditional blue badging, gives the Maverick a unique identity that stands apart from competitors. The Hyundai Santa Cruz is identified as its closest rival.

Performance and Capability

• • Powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
  • Equipped with all-wheel drive, while entry-level models remain front-wheel drive.
  • Optional turbocharged gasoline engine is also available.
  • Offers up to 4,000 pounds of towing capacity when equipped with the available Max Tow Package.
  • Delivers a comfortable, truck-like driving position, though acceleration is described as adequate rather than sporty.

Bed and Utility Features

The Maverick's compact bed is praised for its versatility, featuring:

• • Spray-in bed liner.
  • Adjustable cargo management system.
  • Tie-down hooks.
  • Bed lighting.
  • A 120-volt household power outlet.
  • Maverick-branded tailgate stamping.

These features make the truck useful for home improvement projects, camping, and light hauling.

Interior

The cabin receives positive marks for comfort and clever storage:

• • Blue interior upholstery contrasts nicely with the orange exterior.
  • Comfortable front seats.
  • Sliding rear window.
  • Large under-seat rear storage compartment.
  • Cup holders integrated into the doors.
  • Rear USB-C ports and a 120-volt outlet.
  • LATCH child-seat anchors.
  • Good headroom despite the truck's compact dimensions.

One drawback noted is the lack of rear air vents.

Technology

The Lariat trim includes several modern convenience features:

• • Larger infotainment touchscreen (new for 2026).
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay.
  • Digital instrument cluster with hybrid energy-flow display.
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control (new for 2026).
  • Wireless phone charging.
  • USB-A and USB-C ports.
  • Rotary gear selector.
  • 360-degree camera system.
  • Physical buttons and a dedicated volume knob for easier operation.
  • Trailer management settings.

The reviewer notes the absence of BlueCruise hands-free driving and a driver attention monitoring system.

Pricing

• • Starting price: Approximately CA$38,000 (about US$28,000) for a front-wheel-drive model.
  • As-tested Lariat Hybrid AWD: Approximately CA$55,000 (about US$42,000).

Overall Impression

The reviewer concludes that the 2026 Ford Maverick is a practical, stylish, and enjoyable compact pickup that fills an important niche. It offers enough utility for buyers who occasionally need a truck while remaining easier to drive, more efficient, and less expensive than midsize or full-size pickups. With its thoughtful storage solutions, updated technology, hybrid powertrain, and distinctive styling, the Maverick remains an appealing choice for urban drivers and first-time truck owners.

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