Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid
In 2021, Ford added a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of its popular compact crossover SUV to the lineup. The Escape Plug-in Hybrid combines the small sport-ute’s handsome styling, relatively spacious interior, and easy-to-use infotainment setup with a PHEV powertrain that can travel as much as 37 miles on battery power alone. After that, it earns a respectable 40 mpg (combined), according to the EPA. However, unlike some rivals, such as the Toyota RAV4 Prime, the Escape Plug-in Hybrid isn’t available with all-wheel drive. Additionally, it tends to cost significantly more than the conventionally powered Escape.
In 2021, Ford added a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of its popular compact crossover SUV to the lineup. The Escape Plug-in Hybrid combines the small sport-ute’s handsome styling, relatively spacious interior, and easy-to-use infotainment setup with a PHEV powertrain that can travel as much as 37 miles on battery power alone. After that, it earns a respectable 40 mpg (combined), according to the EPA. However, unlike some rivals, such as the Toyota RAV4 Prime, the Escape Plug-in Hybrid isn’t available with all-wheel drive. Additionally, it tends to cost significantly more than the conventionally powered Escape.
Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid Model Lineup
The Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant of Ford’s popular compact crossover SUV, the Escape. Launched in 2021, the Escape Plug-in Hybrid is the only PHEV vehicle currently offered by the automaker. Ford also sells a conventional hybrid version of the Escape, which is reviewed separately.
Motivating the Escape Plug-in Hybrid is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor and a 14.4-kilowatt-hour battery pack. Together, they produce 221 horsepower, which is routed to the front wheels (only) via a continuously variable automatic transmission. The PHEV powertrain is capable of up to 37 miles of all-electric range. Once depleted, the battery pack takes 3.3 hours to recharge via a 240-volt at-home charger or about 10-11 hours when plugged into a standard 110-volt outlet.
Ford builds the Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid in three trims: the entry-level SE, the mid-range SEL, and the top-tier Titanium. Standard equipment includes keyless entry and ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control, two USB ports, and an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Also standard is Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite of active safety tech, which includes forward collision mitigation, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Stepping up to the SEL adds a power liftgate, parking sensors, remote start, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel – all of which are also available on the SE as options. The range-topping Titanium trim gets all of these features plus LED headlights, automated parking, a power-adjustable passenger seat, and the Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package, which adds adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, and navigation (all optional on the SEL). The Titanium can also be equipped with options such as leather upholstery, a head-up display, and a premium B&O audio system.