The Ford Maverick has quickly become popular in the compact pickup truck segment, offering a unique blend of utility, efficiency, and affordability. Among its various configurations, the AWD SuperCrew variant stands out for its versatility and capability. 

Overview of Available Powertrains

The Ford Maverick AWD SuperCrew comes with two distinct powertrain options, each catering to different driver preferences and requirements:

• 2.0L EcoBoost Engine: This turbocharged four-cylinder engine is the standard offering for the AWD SuperCrew configuration.
• 2.5L Hybrid Engine: While primarily associated with the front-wheel-drive Maverick, this hybrid powertrain is worth comparing, though it’s not available with AWD.

It’s important to note that the AWD system is exclusive to the 2.0L EcoBoost engine in the Maverick lineup. This pairing ensures that drivers seeking the added traction and capability of all-wheel drive also benefit from the increased power and torque of the turbocharged engine.

The 2.0L EcoBoost Engine: Power and Performance

The heart of the Ford Maverick AWD SuperCrew is its 2.0L EcoBoost engine. This turbocharged four-cylinder powerplant delivers a compelling balance of performance and efficiency. 

• Power Output: 250 horsepower (186 kW)
• Torque: 376 Nm (277 lb-ft)
• Displacement: 1,999 cc (2.0 liters)
• Configuration: Inline-4 cylinder
• Induction: Turbocharged
• Fuel System: Direct injection

The EcoBoost technology in this engine combines turbocharging and direct fuel injection to maximize power output and fuel efficiency. This results in performance that rivals many larger, naturally aspirated engines while maintaining the fuel economy benefits of a smaller displacement.

Performance Highlights:

• 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration: Approximately 6.5 seconds
• Top speed: Electronically limited to about 180 km/h (112 mph)
• Towing capacity: Up to 1,814 kg (4,000 lbs) with the optional 4K Tow Package

The 2.0L EcoBoost engine provides ample power for daily driving, with enough reserve for more demanding tasks like towing or navigating challenging terrain. Its broad torque curve ensures responsive acceleration across various speeds, making it well-suited for city driving and highway cruising.

Ford Maverick: Fuel Efficiency

While the 2.0L EcoBoost engine prioritizes performance, it still delivers respectable fuel efficiency for a compact pickup truck with AWD capabilities. Here’s a breakdown of its fuel economy ratings:

• City driving: Approximately 10.7 L/100km (22 mpg)
• Highway driving: Approximately 8.4 L/100km (28 mpg)
• Combined rating: Approximately 9.8 L/100km (24 mpg)

These figures represent a good balance between performance and efficiency, especially considering the Maverick AWD SuperCrew’s capabilities. However, it’s worth noting that these numbers can vary based on driving conditions, load, and individual driving habits.

Environmental Considerations:

• Emissions rating: The 2.0L EcoBoost engine meets current emissions standards, including EPA Tier 3 and California LEV-III ULEV70 requirements.
• Carbon footprint: While not as low as the hybrid variant, the EcoBoost engine’s efficiency helps minimize the vehicle’s overall environmental impact compared to larger, less efficient trucks.

Ford has implemented several technologies to enhance the engine’s efficiency and reduce its environmental impact:

• Auto Start-Stop Technology: This feature automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a stop, reducing fuel consumption and emissions during idle periods.
• Advanced Thermal Management: The engine utilizes sophisticated cooling systems to reach optimal operating temperature quickly, improving efficiency and reducing wear.
• Low-Friction Components: Internal engine components are designed to minimize friction, further enhancing efficiency and longevity.

Ford Maverick AWD: System Integration and Capabilities

The all-wheel-drive system in the Ford Maverick SuperCrew works seamlessly with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine, providing enhanced traction and stability across various driving conditions. Key features of the AWD system include:

1. Intelligent AWD: The system continuously monitors driving conditions and automatically adjusts power distribution between the front and rear wheels for optimal traction.
2. Terrain Management System: This feature allows drivers to select from different drive modes (Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, and Sand) to optimize vehicle performance for specific conditions.
3. Hill Descent Control: This function helps maintain a set speed when descending steep grades, enhancing control and safety in off-road situations.

The integration of the AWD system with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine provides several benefits:

• Improved Traction: The AWD system can send up to 50% of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels, enhancing grip in slippery conditions.
• Better Handling: The intelligent power distribution helps improve cornering stability and overall vehicle dynamics.
• Increased Versatility: The AWD and the powerful EcoBoost engine make the Maverick capable of light off-roading and confident all-weather driving.

It’s important to note that while the AWD system enhances the Maverick capabilities, it does come with a slight fuel economy penalty compared to the front-wheel-drive variants. However, the added traction and confidence for many drivers outweigh this minor efficiency trade-off.

Driving Dynamics and Handling Characteristics

The Ford Maverick AWD SuperCrew, powered by the 2.0L EcoBoost engine, offers a driving experience that differentiates it from traditional pickup trucks. Its unibody construction, coupled with the responsive engine and intelligent AWD system, results in handling characteristics more akin to a crossover SUV than a conventional body-on-frame truck.

Key aspects of the Maverick AWD SuperCrew’s driving dynamics include:

• Responsive Steering: The electric power-assisted steering provides good feedback and precision, making it easy for the Maverick to maneuver in tight spaces.
• Comfortable Ride: The independent rear suspension contributes to a smoother ride than trucks with solid rear axles, absorbing road imperfections effectively.
• Balanced Handling: The combination of the AWD system and well-tuned suspension results in predictable handling with minimal body roll for a vehicle of this type.
• Braking Performance: The Maverick brake system is well-matched to the vehicle’s weight and power, providing confident stopping power.
• NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) Control: Ford has implemented various measures to minimize engine and road noise, resulting in a quieter cabin, especially at highway speeds.

The 2.0L EcoBoost engine’s power delivery characteristics complement these handling traits:

• Quick Throttle Response: The turbocharged engine provides prompt acceleration with minimal turbo lag.
• Smooth Power Delivery: The broad torque curve ensures consistent power availability across the rev range.
• Engine Braking: The turbocharged engine offers good engine braking, which can be particularly useful when descending hills or towing.

It’s worth noting that while the Maverick AWD SuperCrew offers improved handling and traction compared to its FWD counterparts, it’s still designed primarily for on-road use and light off-road duties. Ford offers the FX4 Off-Road Package for more serious off-road capabilities, which adds features like all-terrain tires, additional underbody protection, and off-road-tuned suspension.

Comparing Engine Options: Which is Right for You?

While the 2.0L EcoBoost is the sole engine option for the Maverick AWD SuperCrew, it’s helpful to compare it to the 2.5L hybrid powertrain available in other configurations to help potential buyers make an informed decision:

2.0L EcoBoost (AWD SuperCrew):

• Pros:
  • Higher power and torque output
  • Available all-wheel drive
  • Superior towing capacity (up to 1,814 kg / 4,000 lbs)
  • Better acceleration and overall performance
• Cons:
  • Lower fuel efficiency compared to the hybrid
  • Higher initial cost

2.5L Hybrid (FWD only):

• Pros:
  • Exceptional fuel efficiency (5.6 L/100km / 42 mpg city)
  • Lower emissions
  • Potentially lower running costs
• Cons:
  • Limited to front-wheel drive
  • Lower towing capacity (907 kg / 2,000 lbs)
  • Less powerful for high-demand tasks

Choosing between these options depends on your specific needs and priorities:

• The hybrid powertrain might be the better choice if you prioritize fuel efficiency and primarily drive in urban areas with mild weather conditions.
• If you need all-wheel drive for adverse weather conditions, require higher towing capacity, or prefer more spirited performance, the 2.0L EcoBoost AWD SuperCrew is the way to go.
• Consider your driving habits, local climate, and whether you’ll be using the Maverick for work that requires additional power or towing capacity.
• Factor in long-term ownership costs, including fuel expenses and potential maintenance differences between the two powertrains.

Choose The Right Pickup For Your Lifestyle

The Ford Maverick AWD SuperCrew, with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine, offers a compelling package for drivers seeking a versatile, capable, and efficient compact pickup truck. Its respectable power, all-wheel-drive capability, and relatively good fuel economy make it suitable for a wide range of uses, from daily commuting to weekend adventures and light work duties.

The engine’s performance characteristics and overall design result in a vehicle that drives more like a crossover SUV than a traditional pickup truck, which may appeal to buyers who want truck utility without sacrificing car-like handling and comfort.

While the 2.0L EcoBoost engine may not match the fuel efficiency of the hybrid powertrain, it compensates with increased power, towing capacity, and the availability of all-wheel drive. These features make the Maverick AWD SuperCrew a strong contender in the compact truck market, offering a balance of efficiency, capability, and versatility that’s hard to match.

Ultimately, choosing the AWD SuperCrew with the 2.0L EcoBoost and other Maverick configurations will depend on individual needs, preferences, and driving conditions. By carefully considering these factors, potential buyers can select the Maverick variant that best suits their lifestyle and requirements.