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    Talking Cars 362: Driving the Ford Maverick Hybrid

    We take a look at Ford's entry-level small pickup truck

    Main theme: After nearly two years, we return to the studio for an in-person episode! It’s special not only because everyone is in the same room, but also because we’re talking about a highly anticipated vehicle, the 2022 Ford Maverick Hybrid.

    Ford is positioning the Hybrid as the entry-level model in the Maverick lineup, which is an odd twist. Usually the hybrid is a more premium product. So not only does it start at a low price, but also it promises impressive fuel economy. But, it’s only available with front-wheel drive, which makes it ill-suited for some pickup truck duties.

    Audience question: We explain the mechanics and science behind regenerative braking, and how it charges the batteries in electric vehicles and hybrids.

    Talking Cars 362
    "Talking Cars" panelists Ryan Pszczolkowski, Jon Linkov, and Mike Monticello.

    Photo: Consumer Reports Photo: Consumer Reports

    As with other “Talking Cars” episodes, this one is available free through Apple Podcasts. (Subscribe to the audio or video.) You’ll also find the audio on Spotify (log-in required) and video on YouTube.

    Have a Question?

    We’d love to include it in a future show. Upload your video questions to our Dropbox folder. Please send high-definition (1920x1080) MP4 video files with high-quality audio. Or send an iMessage question to our TalkingCars@icloud.com account.

    Talking Cars

    Browse the complete podcast archive for past shows.


    Jon Linkov

    Jon Linkov is the deputy auto editor at Consumer Reports. He has been with CR since 2002, covering varied automotive topics including buying and leasing, maintenance and repair, ownership, reliability, used cars, and electric vehicles. He manages CR’s lineup of special interest publications, hosts CR’s “Talking Cars” podcast, and writes and edits content for CR’s online and print products. An avid cyclist, Jon also enjoys driving his ’80s-era sports car and instructing at track days.