2025 Ford Maverick vs 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz
In the ever-growing segment of compact pickup trucks, the 2025 Ford Maverick and 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz stand out as versatile urban-friendly options with real truck utility. For drivers in Philadelphia, PA, where city traffic, narrow streets, and rising fuel costs are daily realities, choosing the right small truck means balancing power, comfort, and efficiency. Both models offer unique takes on what a compact truck should be, but the Ford Maverick continues to distinguish itself through its thoughtful design, hybrid technology, and smart utility for urban and suburban life alike.
Performance and Powertrain
The 2025 Ford Maverick makes a strong case for city-focused efficiency thanks to its standard hybrid powertrain, a rarity in the truck world. This 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle inline-four engine paired with an electric motor generates 191 horsepower and delivers up to 42 mpg in the city, significantly outperforming the Santa Cruz's base 2.5-liter gas engine, which only manages an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city. For drivers in Philadelphia, this translates into fewer fuel stops and more miles between fill-ups while navigating crowded Center City streets or making quick runs to South Philly. For those who need more muscle, the Maverick also offers an available 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharged engine with 250 horsepower and available AWD. This option gives it the towing muscle, up to 4,000 pounds when properly equipped, which is useful for weekend getaways to the Poconos or hauling bikes or small trailers to Fairmount Park. While the Santa Cruz offers a respectable turbocharged option, its fuel economy and starting price make it less ideal for buyers looking to balance capability with everyday practicality.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Maverick keeps things simple, functional, and spacious. Its interior feels thoughtfully arranged, with an open design that provides more headroom and legroom in the back compared to the Santa Cruz. Rear-seat passengers, whether that is friends, kids, or coworkers, will appreciate the upright, roomy second row, especially during long drives up I-95 or navigating traffic on the Schuylkill Expressway. Clever storage features such as under-seat storage bins and large door pockets make it easier for Philadelphia drivers to organize groceries, gym bags, or gear without crowding the seats. Meanwhile, durable materials and user-friendly controls mean less time fiddling with buttons and more time focusing on the road. By contrast, while the Santa Cruz offers a more car-like cabin with premium touches, it can feel cramped in the rear, limiting its flexibility for families or ridesharing purposes. The Maverick's upright stance also helps with visibility, an advantage in Philly's tightly packed parking lots and narrow alleyways. For commuters, students, or professionals bouncing between work and weekend errands, the Maverick's layout strikes a better balance between comfort and daily usability.
Fuel Type
Perhaps the most defining difference between these two trucks is how they handle efficiency and emissions. The 2025 Ford Maverick is the only compact truck that comes standard with a full hybrid powertrain. This not only helps the Maverick achieve outstanding fuel economy but also positions it as a forward-thinking choice for drivers conscious of their environmental impact. Philadelphia continues to expand its green infrastructure, from public EV/hybrid parking spots to initiatives supporting cleaner air in dense city zones. For buyers who want to contribute to reduced emissions without giving up the convenience and utility of a pickup, the Maverick delivers that rare combination. The hybrid powertrain operates seamlessly and doesn't require a plug, offering lower operating costs while avoiding the charging station infrastructure needed by full EVs. Meanwhile, the Santa Cruz does not offer a hybrid or electric variant, meaning drivers must rely entirely on conventional fuel. In a city where gas prices fluctuate and where short trips dominate most driving patterns, the Maverick's hybrid system provides a clear advantage in both cost and sustainability.
The 2025 Ford Maverick brings a well-rounded package to the streets of Philadelphia. It's a truck that respects your budget, prioritizes practicality, and addresses urban challenges with smart, efficient solutions. Whether you're navigating tight city lanes, planning weekend hikes near Wissahickon, or just want a reliable vehicle that offers strong value and real utility, the Maverick holds its own in this growing segment. If you're comparing your options, we invite you to explore the 2025 Ford Maverick further and contact us online at Dunphy Ford to schedule a test drive or learn more today.