Hybrid vehicles combine a gasoline engine with an electric motor to provide better fuel economy than standard cars. Until recently, hybrid pickup trucks have been rare. But Ford put a sweet hybrid powertrain in one of its latest trucks, the Maverick, offering affordability and fuel savings. 

Consumer Reports ranks the best hybrids of 2022, and the Ford Maverick is the only truck on the list. Here’s why this pickup deserves a spot in any best-hybrid roundup.

Consumer Reports uses its extensive test results to compile lists of cars, trucks, and SUVs its editors believe are worth your attention. They help consumers decide which vehicle suits their needs the best.

In this case, CR has ranked the 2022 hybrid models its testers think are the best on the market. Parked atop the pile is the Lexus NX. CR reviewers picked this luxury SUV for its daily drivability and excellent handling. But what’s most impressive is the NX’s $652 of yearly fuel savings.

As for cars, Consumer Reports recommends the trusty Toyota Prius for its exceptional fuel economy, roominess, and abundant safety features, including automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. With its top-notch mileage rating, you can expect to save about $410 a year. However, it will take around seven years for this hybrid to pay for itself in fuel savings. 

But when it comes to hybrid pickup trucks, only the 2022 Ford Maverick makes the shortlist.

The Ford Maverick is an excellent choice for a hybrid pickup truck. Starting at around only $21,000, it boasts an impressive 39 mpg on the highway. Overall, the Maverick gets 37 mpg and an estimated fuel savings of $792 a year — even better than some SUVs on Consumer Reports’ list. 

The hybrid powertrain comes standard on the Maverick — the first pickup truck on the market to do so. CR reviewers recommend it because they love the ride, handling, and maneuverability. Also, the controls are simple and easy to use, and the 4.5-foot truck bed offers plenty of space for daily tasks. 

The new 2022 Ford Maverick was just announced today — and here's my thorough tour of its quirks and features! https://t.co/a3T2IhVoSf pic.twitter.com/GKv9uXMATm

Even more impressive is that it offers savings from day one of ownership, while some SUVs take approximately three years. Gas-only Maverick models boast a higher towing capacity, but they don’t provide the same fuel savings as the hybrid. 

The biggest problem with the Ford Maverick is getting your hands on one. You can no longer order a 2022 model. So the few (if any) remaining models on dealership lots will likely sell for over the MSRP. 

The 2022 Ford Maverick packs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, a continuously variable automatic transmission, and a front-wheel drivetrain. Its hybrid setup produces 191 hp with 155 lb-ft of torque. 

The Maverick also offers plenty of cargo space for a small truck. With 33.3 cubic feet and a payload capacity of 1,500 pounds, this compact pickup provides enough room to handle everyday duties. However, towing capacity isn’t impressive. The standard model can trailer 2,000 pounds, but the EcoBoost can pull 4,000 pounds. 

In addition, technology features are relatively sparse. But considering the low purchase price, you’ll find the Maverick provides plenty of bells and whistles. The 2022 model has an 8.0-inch touchscreen, a 6.5-inch instrument cluster display, a 4G wireless hotspot, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. If you opt for the range-topping Lariat, you’ll get more features, including remote start and heated seats. However, you’ll pay quite a bit more. A fully loaded 2022 Ford Maverick runs about $39,000.

Hybrid vehicles offer superb fuel economy ratings, even surpassing fully electric cars. So if you’re searching for a hybrid vehicle with a pickup truck’s utility, don’t ignore the Ford Maverick.

RELATED: These Hybrid Models Just Might Be the Best for City Driving