Looking for a state-of-the-art hybrid SUV? The 2023 Ford Escape Hybrid is for you. Available in 5 hybrid trims, including a dedicated Plug-In Hybrid trim, all varieties come equipped with a hybrid 2.5L iVCT Atkinson-Cycle I-4 engine with an 88kW electric motor.
The Escape is lower, wider, and delivers more interior space than previous generations.The hybrid trims make the most of that interior space through the use of a smaller liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery right underneath the floor of the second row of seats. The size of the battery is equivalent to the size of a normal briefcase, and is significantly smaller as compared to the hybrid battery in previous Escape Hybrid models. Thanks to the Escape’s design, the battery’s position leaves more room available for you and your gear – resulting in a maximum cargo space of 34.4 cubic feet. The Ford Escape Hybrid is available now, with similar trim options to the non-hybrid model.
“The Escape is Ford’s small SUV that sits between the smaller Ford EcoSport and larger Ford Edge and three-row Explorer. It’s also notable for its available hybrid powertrain. Picking the Escape Hybrid allows you to get increased fuel economy while still enjoying the model’s roomy seating and comfortable ride. The EPA estimates that the hybrid will get around 40 mpg in combined driving, which is a 10-14 mpg boost over the non-hybrid engines on offer in the Escape.” — Edmunds
“The Escape Hybrid is both zippy and fuel-efficient, and it offers composed handling and a blissful ride over rough pavement. When optioned as a plug-in hybrid, it has an all-electric driving range of up to 37 miles. There’s sufficient seating space for adults in both rows, and the Escape Hybrid is packed with a user-friendly infotainment system and lots of active safety features. It’s also one of the more affordably priced vehicles in the hybrid SUV class.” — U.S. News
The Escape has received some significant changes for 2023, with the most noticeable being a totally redesigned front end and a new range of wheel options. The trim levels have been completely overhauled, with the Plug-In Hybrid now being its own dedicated trim. The SYNC 3 system has been upgraded to SYNC 4, and with that comes a bigger infotainment touchscreen. The standard screen is now 8 inches, with an optional 13.2-inch screen available. The standard gauge cluster is now an 8-inch digital until, with a 12.3-inch version available.
Both versions of the Ford Escape Hybrid – both the SE Sport Hybrid and the Titanium Plug-In Hybrid – come equipped with Ford’s 2.5-liter iVCT Atkinson Cycle engine mated to an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT) and an 88 kW electric motor. Add to that electric power-assisted steering and 4-wheel disc Anti-Lock Brakes and AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™ and you have an SUV that delivers not only fuel savings – but maximum control and safety as well. It also breaks the stereotype that a Hybrid SUV is incapable of towing anything behind it, with a standard towing capacity of 1,500 lbs. Models equipped with the Class II Trailer Tow Package are capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds.
The Ford Escape Hybrid models tout some creative ways to save fuel without having to compromise on other features. The Escape Hybrid has an available AWD Disconnect feature that transforms into FWD by disabling the rear driveline whenever the system finds no need for AWD. Using the AWD Disconnect helps reduce drag and excess energy consumption for the drivetrain.
The Escape Plug-In Hybrid comes with a Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging port giving you flexibility when charging your vehicle. The 110-volt Level 1 charger can take 10 to 11 hours to fully charge. But through the use of the 240-volt Level 2 charger, an Escape Plug-In Hybrid only takes 3.5 hours to reach a full charge.
The technology on all Ford Escape models – both the traditional gas powertrains as well as the Hybrid powertrains – are all designed for both fuel efficiency as well as comfort and convenience. Four selectable drive modes, including Eco, Sport, Normal, and Slippery ensure your Escape is sure-footed regardless of the terrain. The driving modes are displayed on the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and each mode can modify the electronic stability control system and traction control system automatically. Normal mode functions best for everyday driving for perfect balance while Eco Mode delivers maximum fuel efficiency and driving range. All Ford Escapes come standard with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and other driving-assist technologies, and additional driver assistance technologies, such as adaptive cruise control and traffic sign recognition, are available in the optional Co-Pilot360 Plus package.
*Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (also referred to as “MSRP”, “Base MSRP”, “Base Price” or the “Starting At” price), excludes destination/delivery charge, taxes, title, license, and registration and/or electronic filing fees, dealer fees, and total of options.
