MODEL
Ford Maverick Hev
NHTSA safety across every Ford Maverick Hev model year we cover.
Across the 1 model year of the Ford Maverick Hev we cover (2026 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2026 at 77 on the NHTSA Safety Index. 6 recalls have been issued across those years.
The 2026 Ford Maverick HEV is a compact hybrid pickup truck - yes, the data tags it as a sedan, reflecting how NHTSA classifies its unibody architecture - aimed squarely at buyers who want a practical, fuel-conscious hauler without the bulk of a full-size truck. It targets urban and suburban drivers who prioritize efficiency and versatility, and it slots into one of the most competitive and fast-growing segments in the American market.
At MotorCaliber, we look at one thing: how safe is this truck when things go wrong? For the 2026 Ford Maverick HEV, the picture is mixed but worth unpacking carefully. Its NHTSA Safety Index lands at 77 out of 100, placing it in the Average band - not a failing grade, but not a standout either. Frontal crash protection is genuinely strong, earning a full 5 out of 5 stars, which is encouraging for a unibody pickup that sees real-world highway use. Rollover protection comes in at 4 out of 5, reasonable for a low-slung truck with a relatively compact footprint. Side crash testing has not been rated for this model year, which leaves a meaningful gap in the safety picture shoppers should acknowledge. The recall count of 6 across the covered model years is notable, and one of those is a park-outside or do-not-drive campaign - the most serious category of recall action. That alone warrants close attention from current and prospective owners. Owner complaints are minimal at just 3 total, with zero reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths, though these are unverified allegations. The bottom line: the Maverick HEV has real strengths in frontal protection, but the serious recall and missing side-crash data mean buyers should verify recall completion before purchase.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally find the Maverick HEV to be a well-rounded, approachable compact truck with a surprisingly car-like ride and a cabin that punches above its price point in comfort and everyday usability. Driving dynamics are described as composed and easy to manage, and the hybrid powertrain integration is typically praised for its smoothness in daily driving conditions.
- One of the 6 recalls across the 2026 model year carries a park-outside or do-not-drive designation - the most urgent recall classification NHTSA issues. Shoppers and owners must verify this recall has been completed before driving the vehicle.
- Frontal crash protection earns a perfect 5 out of 5 stars, making the Maverick HEV one of the stronger performers in its class for the type of collision most likely to cause serious injury on US roads.
- Side crash test results are not yet rated for the 2026 model year, which is a genuine gap in the safety data. Buyers who prioritize a complete crash-test picture may want to wait for those results before committing.
- The overall NHTSA Safety Index of 77 out of 100 falls in the Average band - not alarming, but not class-leading. Combined with the missing side-crash rating, it suggests the Maverick HEV has room to improve its full safety profile.
Most-recalled year on record: 2026 Ford Maverick Hev with 6 recalls.