By: Joshua Lee
September 9, 2024
For 2023, the Ford Escape gets a refresh in the hopes that its new look will appeal to customers searching for their next compact SUV. The fourth-generation Escape has been around since 2020 and now offers a new plug-in hybrid version. Can a model update with a bigger battery be enough for the everyday consumer?
We have the 2024 Ford Escape PHEV for the week, provided by Ford Canada. The plug-in variant features a 2.5L four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a combined 210 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque. While it provides a nice push when you hit the accelerator, the Escape feels underpowered. Comparing this to the Kia Sportage PHEV we’ve reviewed, the Escape needs significantly more power to keep up. The Escape PHEV uses a CVT instead of the eight-speed automatic transmission found in other models, so power delivery is smooth. However, engine noise can get loud under hard acceleration, and being available only in front-wheel drive may be a drawback for some buyers.
It isn’t all bad behind the wheel of the Ford Escape, as it’s responsive to drive and rides comfortably. There are driving modes to choose from and the ability to save the battery charge for later use or use the engine to charge the battery while driving. We found that the latter option doesn’t do much and prolongs the loud engine sound. The Escape feels composed around corners, but the steering would feel nicer with a bit more weight. Regenerative braking isn’t abrupt, and if you come to a stop smoothly, the “Brake Coach” feature pops up a message to indicate how much energy is returned.
Our Escape PHEV comes in an optional Star White Metallic Tri-Coat and features 18-inch machined-face wheels. The refresh includes a revised hood, new bumper design, and updated exterior lighting. The grille is wider with the Ford badge placed in the center. Fitting the Escape with the premium package adds a light bar above the grille that connects to the LED headlamps.
The cabin of the Ford Escape is pleasant and offers plenty of room. The Space Grey leather-trimmed seats have a nice quilting design and are comfortable, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and a 6-way power function for the front passenger. Both seats and the steering wheel are heated. The 12.3-inch driver’s display provides clear graphics, and a large 13.2-inch touchscreen SYNC4 infotainment system with enhanced voice recognition sits in the center of the dashboard. The SYNC4 system doesn’t lag and is easy to use, with no guesswork to figure out where everything is. Wireless charging, a 10-speaker B&O Sound System, ambient lighting, rain-sensing wipers, a 360-degree camera with split view, and parking sensors are all included with the premium package. The optional Panoramic Vista Roof allows plenty of natural light to flood into the car. There is ample legroom in the back, and passengers can recline the seats for better comfort. Cargo space in the back is 974L; fold the 60/40 split bench, and it expands to 1,721L. The rear bench also slides, allowing you to maximize legroom or cargo space.
Safety features are plentiful with automatic high beams, Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0, perimeter alarm, and reverse brake assistance. The premium package offers Active Park Assist 2.0, which allows the car to parallel or perpendicular park by itself.
Ford Canada rates the Escape PHEV with a combined 2.3 Le/100KM and a fuel economy of 5.9L/100KM using only the combustion engine. With its 14 kWh battery, the plug-in Escape offers 60 km of electric range, which is about the same as the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and more than the Kia Sportage PHEV. You can charge the Escape PHEV in under 12 hours with a standard 120-volt outlet or around 3.5 hours using a Level 2 charger. We managed to achieve 4.2L/100KM for the week and covered 52% of our week-long trip solely on EV power.
The plug-in model starts at $49,194, including destination and delivery. Our model, with the premium package, Class II Trailer Tow Package, and a few other extras, brings the price up to $57,444.
The refresh gives the Escape good looks, and it’s not radical or off-putting, as it maintains its compact SUV stature. While engine performance could be better, the Escape PHEV is enjoyable to drive and offers more than enough space for everyday needs. The EV range is sufficient, and the overall package is straightforward. If Ford adds all-wheel drive to this vehicle, it would become a very compelling option.
