Plug-In Hybrid-Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), such as the Ford Escape Hybrid, utilize a high-capacity battery to reduce the need for petroleum. There is a plug that goes into an electrical outlet or charging station to regenerate power. The vehicle can operate solely on electricity, gasoline, or a mixture of both. Lowering greenhouse gas emissions and fuel costs are attractive advantages to consumers looking for a hybrid vehicle.

As the plug-in-hybrid SUV market continues to grow, the all-new 2020 Ford Escape Hybrid is standing out in its class. Offering an EPA-estimated 37 miles of electric-only range and 100 MPGe, the redesigned Escape is more affordable than ever. 

2020 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid

With a starting price of $33,040, the two-row Ford Escape Hybrid SUV runs off a 14.4-kWh battery and 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine. Getting up to 221 hp and 155 lb-ft of torque, the impressive SUV is a reliable choice.

The interior and exterior of the Ford Escape received a complete overhaul for 2020 and, for the first time, is available with a plug-in-hybrid powertrain. The front-wheel-drive PHEV accommodates five passengers with second-row sliding seats and a 60/40 split-fold down option. The battery is stored underneath the car and frees up optimum space. 

The generous cargo-carrying capacity accentuates the spacious cabin.

Ford’s chief product development and purchasing officer issued a statement saying, “The original Ford Escape was the world’s first hybrid SUV, and the all-new Ford Escape plug-in hybrid represents how far we’ve come in technology and efficiency.”

Pros and cons of the Ford Escape Hybrid

The 2020 Ford Escape Hybrid is in direct competition with the Toyota RAV4. The new 2020 Honda CR-V will also have a plug-in model later this year, creating a crowded SUV option class.

The Escape appeals to commuters, who can go back and forth to work without using any gasoline. The battery generates the power for the first 30 miles until the four-cylinder engine even has to kick in. The hybrid vehicle’s performance is sufficient, but it isn’t going to win any races, with an acceleration rate of 0 to 60 mph in 8.7 seconds.

According to Motor Trend, the Escape has a “soft and suburban appeal that’s a world apart from the more rugged-looking RAV4.” Design features aside, the Toyota plug-in hybrid does offer more cargo room and is considerably faster. While appreciating the spacious interior, Motor Trend felt, “The hybrid feels responsive overall, but no drivetrain behavior or slick 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster can distract from the general cheapness that pervades the interior.” 

A few downsides to the Ford Hybrid include limited rear visibility, which isn’t too big of a deal if using the blind spot monitoring system. The suspension system doesn’t offer much when it comes to supporting, leaving consumers feeling frustrated with a bumpy ride. Also, audio and navigation systems tend to be problematic compared to other models in its class. 

Tax credits help make the car affordable

The price is where the Ford Escape Hybrid stands out. Once tax credits are factored into the MSRP, the 2020 Ford Escape Hybrid is extremely affordable.

The federal government offers up to $7,500 in tax credits for PHEVs. The larger the battery capacity, the bigger the credit. The 2020 Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid has a 14.4-kWh battery, allowing for a $6,843 tax credit to new car buyers.

This generous credit makes the 2020 Escape Hybrid final price $26,197 before destination fees and taxes. The new Ford PHEV is an environmentally friendly and affordable option when looking for a long-range plug-in hybrid vehicle.