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The 2025 Maverick XLT is a strong evolution of the compact-pickup formula. Ford has made a number of updates to improve capability, usability, and modern appeal, many based on what buyers kept asking about. I like this model more because it’s useful, but without the bulk that some pickups offer.
Ford made some great changes in the Maverick including the fact that you can get a hybrid powertrain, which had been limited to front-wheel drive. For 2025, you can get the 2.5-liter hybrid with all-wheel drive on many trims, including the XLT. That’s a big deal for folks who need better traction in rain, snow, or unpaved roads.
It generates 191 horsepower and 155 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid FWD version is rated up to 42 miles per gallon and gets a combined 37 miles per gallon. With AWD, you lose a little, but it remains strong.
Inside you get some interesting tech including a 13.2-inch center touchscreen with SYNC-4 software, wireless Apple carplay and Android auto, and an 8-inch screen in the instrument cluster.
While upgraded, many XLTs still use cloth seats, manual adjustors and simpler materials compared to higher trims. If you want leather, heated seats, more premium finishes, you’ll have to move up.
With all the added tech and capability (like AWD for the hybrid), prices are higher than earlier years, coming in at more than $32,000, so, some of the affordability appeal has shifted.
With the optional 4K tow package and AWD, the Maverick’s towing capacity gets boosted up to 4,000 pounds, or about a third of an adult African elephant. Payload for the hybrid-AWD XLT is about 1,500 lbs, which is not bad for its size.
Things like the “flexbed” storage system remain, and Ford refined the handling, especially once AWD was added. Ground clearance is decent, and the Maverick still fits better in tight spaces than full-size trucks.
It still has a compact bed. For some work or hauling uses, you’ll need racks, boxes, or external accessories. Not the same as a full-size truck.
All in all, I really enjoyed driving the 2025 Maverick XLT. It’s powerful enough to carry lots of stuff without a sweat and it looks good doing it. Give it a spin and tell me what you think.
