What kind of transmission is in a Ford Maverick?
The Ford Maverick uses two different transmissions depending on powertrain: an electronically controlled CVT (eCVT) with the hybrid, and a traditional eight-speed automatic with the EcoBoost gasoline engine.
Transmission options by Maverick powertrain
Hybrid powertrain: 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle I-4 with eCVT
For the hybrid variant, Ford pairs a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle inline-4 with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT). This setup is designed to maximize efficiency and deliver smooth, quiet operation by avoiding fixed gear steps.
Key characteristics of the Maverick hybrid transmission:
- Electronically controlled CVT (eCVT) that simulates gears for smooth acceleration and high efficiency
- Integrated with the hybrid system and regenerative braking to optimize fuel economy
- Offers uninterrupted torque delivery rather than traditional stepped gears
- Primarily aligned with the hybrid powertrain to maximize city and overall efficiency
- Requires CVT-specific maintenance as outlined in the owner’s manual
In short, the hybrid Maverick uses an eCVT to emphasize efficiency and smoothness over the stepped performance some drivers expect from a conventional automatic.
Gasoline powertrain: 2.0-liter EcoBoost with 8-speed automatic
The EcoBoost-equipped Maverick uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup provides more traditional shift feel and stronger response for acceleration and highway driving compared with the hybrid.
Key characteristics of the Maverick’s 8-speed automatic transmission:
- Traditional eight-speed automatic (no CVT)
- Defined gear steps with conventional throttle response and shift feel
- Coupled with the turbocharged EcoBoost engine to support stronger acceleration
- Well-suited for highway driving and towing scenarios, depending on configuration
- Maintains standard Automatic Transmission maintenance guidelines per the owner’s manual
Ultimately, the EcoBoost Maverick with the eight-speed automatic offers a more conventional driving experience and punchier performance, while the hybrid prioritizes efficiency through its eCVT.
Summary
In the Ford Maverick lineup, two transmissions cover the two powertrains: a hybrid version with an electronically controlled CVT (eCVT) for maximum efficiency, and a gasoline EcoBoost version with a traditional eight-speed automatic for more immediate performance. Your choice between these options should reflect whether you value fuel economy and smoothness (hybrid/eCVT) or responsive power and conventional feel (EcoBoost/8-speed automatic).
