2022 Ford Escape Hybrid Plug-In: Feeling Dated

With everyone looking to save money at the pumps, the allure of hybrids and EVs has suddenly skyrocketed. While a somewhat niche market before, the idea of cruising on electricity alone more than gas is starting to make a lot more sense.

When Ford first introduced the Escape about 20 years ago, the crossover was one of the early adopters of that specific vehicle segment. Over the years, the Escape evolved in both size, shape and design. And this latest, fourth generation Escape, introduced just a few short years ago, boasts a powertrain that’s sure to appeal to the masses. But is it enough?

• Also: 2023 Ford Escape Updated With Fresh Looks, Huge Screen
• Also: 2023 Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid: Good but Pricey

On-Trend

If there’s one thing the Ford Escape Hybrid is, is on-trend. Everyone and their uncle is immediately drawn to more fuel efficient cars these days; and the Escape Hybrid is just that. Now, it’s not a full EV, however, it has the ability to be plugged in which means, technically, you could easily cruise around on battery power alone if you live within a 45-50km radius of all your needs (job/amenities/school/etc).

So, the Escape is equipped with a 2.5L 4-cylinder mill paired with a hybrid battery system that allows the crossover to travel on battery power alone for up to 59km (according to the manufacturer). With 221 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque, the Escape offers up a decent amount of oomph when needed, as it’s not a huge vehicle. The EVT (electrically variable speed transmission) is tolerable, albeit slightly drone-y at times.

Our main grip about the Escape Hybrid is actually the fact that it’s FWD. With the added battery-power boost, it can make winter driving slightly more challenging. Although, not entirely impossible, and definitely something you can get used to and control given time.

Now, the max battery life I was able to get out of the Escape Hybrid was 40-ish km of battery-only driving, and that number dwindled quickly as soon as I set out. It was very temperature dependent, as well as based on my driving style and what amenities I had turned on in the cabin.

Do we believe this is a viable electric-only vehicle overall? Yes. But only for short distances and not for highway cruises. If it is that during the week you only travel a maximum of 35-40km per day, then in reality you would never have to touch the gas portion of your Escape’s reserves. Simply plugging it into the wall of your home or condo would be sufficient enough to fully charge the battery overnight, as well.

But Outdated

Where the Escape falls flat is in its interior design and overall look. Especially when the price point is considered. With a $40k sticker price (as tested), the Escape is up there with fully electric vehicles like the Kona, Volkswagen ID.4, Chevrolet Bolt or even the Model 3. All of which are leagues ahead of the Escape in both battery range and interior quality.

Outfitted with hard plastics and boring design elements, we felt a bit like we’d stepped back in time when getting behind the wheel of the Escape Hybrid, and that’s just too bad. There’s huge potential there, as the interior space is actually quite ample (we took the crossover snowboarding and had plenty of room for all gear and people).

From the outside, the Escape is just a little too soft and reminded us of the Focus or Fiesta than a Ford crossover. With gentle edges and sloping lines, the Escape comes across as just too smooth in a way.

An Escape from the Pumps

If nothing else, the Ford Escape Hybrid will help reduce your monthly gas bill. Driven correctly and with ample charge time per day to keep that battery topped up, the Escape Hybrid Plug-In is a great small family car. However, there are definitely other models out there that offer higher battery-only range, as well as much more updated interior designs. It really just comes down to what your driving needs are, and what you really look for when getting into a new car (practicality/design/efficiency?).