We have an underdog to celebrate as the Ford Escape PHEV takes the crown. The 2022 Ford Escape PHEV is the most fuel-efficient plug-in hybrid SUV you can buy. It’s time to stop sleeping on the Escape. It offers more value than you know. 

How much range does the 2022 Ford Escape PHEV have? 

The 2022 Ford Escape PHEV gets an EPA-estimated 37 miles of electric range, a 40 mpg gas-only fuel economy, and it gets 105 MPGe combined. It is a plug-in hybrid, so it uses gas and electricity. You can plug it in to charge at home or at electric vehicle charging stations. 

Compared to the Toyota RAV4 Prime, the Escape PHEV is a gas-saving beast. The RAV4 has a 42-mile electric range and gets about 38 mpg with gas only. It also provides up to 94 MPGe but has a much higher price tag. 

You can get started in the Ford Escape PHEV for about $33,940, while the RAV4 Prime begins at around $39,800. So the Escape PHEV is a bargain that can provide more range for less. It should go up to 520 miles between fill-ups. 

How much power does the Escape PHEV have? 

The 2022 Ford Escape PHEV is equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors. It cranks out 221 hp and 155 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.7 seconds, which is slightly above average. 

One drawback to consider is the fact that the Escape PHEV isn’t available with all-wheel drive. However, it does have a Slppiery Mode and a Deep Snow/Sand mode. 

After testing the Escape PHEV in sleet, we can confirm that the Slippery mode tightens the suspension and provides more control during inclement weather. But we would like AWD to become available with the PHEV. 

When properly equipped, the Escape PHEV can tow up to 1,500 lbs, but other Escape models can tow up to 3,500 lbs. 

The Escape has a peppy acceleration, but it can be slow to downshift. The handling could be a little more responsive, but the steering is light for a low-effort experience. Sport mode makes the ride more engaging with more heft and snappier responses. 

Plus, the Escape PHEV offers a smooth and relaxing ride in a composed manner. The interior is fairly quiet, with a bit of road noise at highway speeds. 

The Escape PHEV is value-packed 

The standard 2022 Ford Escape PHEV comes with chrome exterior trim, 17-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, ignition, an 8-inch touchscreen, two extra USB ports, dual-zone climate control, and a 12.3-inch instrument cluster display. 

Moving up in trim levels adds ambient interior lighting, 19-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, faux leather upholstery, parking sensors, heated seats, roof rails, and fog lights. A wireless charging pad and head-up display are optional. 

Standard safety features include forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. 

While the Ford Escape PHEV isn’t the sportiest or most capable option, according to AutoBlog, it has the best fuel economy out of every PHEV SUV. Plus, it’s comfortable, practical, and luxurious.