New 2023 Ford Escape Hybrid and PHEV are Geared for Efficiency

• The hybrid version will deliver a total range of nearly 900km on a full tank.

• The FWD plug-in model will offer up to 60 km of full EV range.

Ford just introduced the updated Escape SUV for the 2023 model year. The small SUV will now be available in an ST-Line trim, and both its hybrid iterations get noteworthy updates.

Back in 2005, Ford was the first to launch a hybrid version of its popular compact SUV.  the current-generation Escape arrived for 2020 and with came not only a hybrid but, for the first time ever, a plug-in hybrid variant for 2021. For 2023, Ford is once again offering two hybrid choices for the Escape – a full hybrid and a plug-in hybrid model, both upgraded for efficiency and performance.

“Ford is among the leading hybrid automakers in the U.S. because we understand that not all of our customers are ready to go all-electric,” said brand manager Adrienne Zaski. “With two hybrid powertrain choices, customers can spend less time at the gas station and keep more money in their pockets.”

Ford Updates Escape for 2023, Adds ST-Line Sport Trim

The hybrid model will now manage an EPA-estimated range of at least 885 km per tank for the front-wheel drive model. Despite a mild drop in range, the AWD version still delivers impressive fuel consumption numbers.

The plug-in hybrid model is powered by a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine mated to an electric motor integrated with the transmission. Together, they are expected to generate a system net of 210 horsepower. The lithium-ion battery pack mounted beneath the rear cargo floor provides energy to the electric motor enabling the SUV to cover an EPA-estimated range of 60 km in electric-only mode.

The Escape PHEV features four EV drive modes to maximize efficiency depending on driving situations:

• In Auto EV mode, the vehicle decides whether to run on gas or electric power.

• In EV Now mode, drivers can operate on all-electric driving.

• In EV Later mode, drivers can switch to full gas-powered driving to conserve electric range for later.

• In EV Charge mode, drivers can continue to charge the battery while driving and generate an electric-only range to use later.