In 1993, the assembly of Ford Maverick cars began at a factory in Barcelona. Reviews of the first owners of the model testified that this crossover in the back of a station wagon with front-wheel drive has every chance of a tremendous success. The explanation for this is quite simple, and it lies in the fact that cars of such a plan at that time reached the peak of their popularity. It should be noted that the car has become a joint development of designers from the companies "Ford" and "Nissan". As for the name of the model, in the interpretation of the Russian language it means “individualist”, “dissident”, “unrogged horse”.
First generation
The first generation Ford Maverick was a fairly high frame design with a spacious interior and a rigidly connected front axle. It was difficult to call the standard equipment of the model rich, because it included only electrically adjustable mirrors, a central lock and a power steering. The absence of other add-ons habitual for motorists (various appliances, leather interior) was explained by the relatively low cost of the car. For the car, two powerplant options were provided: a 124-horsepower 2.4-liter gasoline engine, as well as a 2.7-liter turbodiesel capable of developing 99 horsepower. Both units consisted of four cylinders.
Second generation
The year 2000 saw the debut of the second generation of Ford Maverick models. Responses of car owners characterized it as a car with good driving characteristics, economical fuel consumption, as well as high cross-country performance. In the US market, the model was sold under the Escape brand. Two types of engines were installed under its hood: a six-cylinder Duratec engine with a volume of three liters and a capacity of 197 horsepower or a two-liter Zetec power plant capable of developing 124 “horses”. In addition, compared with the previous version, the novelty received a number of changes that affected the interior and exterior design, transmission and optics.
Latest version
About ten years ago, the next version of the Ford Maverick model made its debut in the general public (photos are presented below). Creating a new project, American engineers agreed that the car needs a little restyling. Despite this, the overall design of the machine remained the same and easily recognizable. The main changes in appearance affected the shape of bumpers and lighting equipment. As for the passenger compartment, a switch catches your eye that has been moved from the steering wheel to the front panel. The combination of elements of the dashboard has become more concise and strict. More details about the main innovations and parameters of the car will be discussed later.
Motors
For the car, two powertrain options have been developed. The first engine Ford Maverick received in the form of an installation with 16 valves with a volume of 2.3 liters. Its maximum power is 150 horsepower. In this case, the car is equipped with a five-speed manual gearbox. The second option is a V-shaped six-cylinder engine with a volume of three liters, developing 203 “horses”. It functions exclusively in conjunction with the "automatic".
Four-wheel drive
Compared to the previous modification, the four-wheel drive system has also received some changes . Now its main feature can be called the function of "tracking action". It lies in the fact that at the beginning of the ride, the torque is distributed only to the front wheels. This can significantly reduce fuel consumption. When the wheels slip, the RBC clutch is activated and the rear wheels are connected. Thus, depending on road conditions, the distribution of torque may approach 50/50.
Interior
A large and comfortable lounge is one of the main advantages of the latest Ford Maverick model. Expert reviews indicate that the feeling of free space is achieved largely due to the cream upholstery and thanks to the large windshield. The basic equipment of the machine includes full power accessories, a leather interior and six airbags. The main feature of the dashboard is the contrasting color scheme. In particular, the speedometer and tachometer are effectively distinguished by white circles on a black background. In the dark, the green backlight looks beautiful and original. Inside, there are many kinds of drawers, shelves and cup holders. In the front armrest is a niche where you can conveniently place even a man purse.
Separate words deserve a driver's seat, equipped with a wide range of adjustments. Among other things, one cannot fail to note the high level of comfort that is provided for the passengers of the Ford Maverick car. Reviews of car enthusiasts are clear evidence that three adult men of any physique can comfortably accommodate in the back seat.
Luggage compartment
The boot volume of the car is 935 liters. At the same time, if such a need arises, this indicator can also be increased. In the case of folding the rear seats, its capacity almost doubles - up to 1793 liters. Access to the trunk is possible in two options - through an open window or through a fully raised rear door. In addition to this, roof rails are provided on the roof of the car, which allow you to additionally carry things weighing up to 45 kg.
Security
Separate words deserve safety features in the Ford Maverick. Clear controllability and durability of the machine are ensured primarily due to the strong supporting body. In addition, the car is equipped with an individual security system for people in the cabin. Its main purpose is to provide the maximum degree of protection for the driver and passengers in the event of a collision. In addition, the Ford Maverick is equipped with an anti-lock system and an emergency braking assistance program. It should be noted that the front passenger seat is equipped with a sensor that turns off the airbag if no one is sitting here. After the crash tests, the car received rather high marks on such criteria as frontal and side collision (four and five stars, respectively), and a rather weak mark on the rollover resistance parameter (only three stars).
Options and cost
Two versions of Ford Maverick cars are distinguished depending on the configuration and engine size. Technical characteristics, comfort level and cost are those parameters by which they differ among themselves. The first and simplest of the modifications is called XLT and is equipped with a 2.3-liter engine. The car has fabric trim for the seats, air conditioning, mirrors and power windows, as well as a driver's seat with manual adjustment. For him, there are six color options for the body. The cost of such a machine starts at $ 29,900.
The second option is called XLT Premium. Its basic equipment includes a three-liter power unit, cruise control, leather upholstery, alloy wheels, full power accessories, a panoramic sunroof, air conditioning and other devices providing a high level of comfort. The minimum cost of the car is 35 900 dollars.
disadvantages
The main disadvantages of the Ford Maverick model are automotive experts called a small clearance (only 198 mm) and a not very stiff suspension. Along with this, do not forget that the car does not belong to the class of full-fledged SUVs, this is a crossover. Due to the lack of mudguards in the basic configuration, its body very quickly becomes dirty when driving on the road. In addition, the manufacturer does not provide a winter package for cars. Be that as it may, against the background of a large number of pluses, all these flaws become not so significant.
findings
According to surveys of experts and owners of Ford Maverick cars, it can be called a worthy choice. This reliable, modern and comfortable car will perfectly cope with the role of the only car in the family, because the designers embodied in it solidity, ease of control and capacity. All this in the complex makes it an excellent solution not only for daily trips to work, but also for traveling out of town at the weekend.