Update: Ford has announced the official fuel economy figure for the Escape hybrid. According to the EPA the Escape hybrid returns a combined fuel efficiency of 41mpg. It returns 44mpg in the city and 37mpg on the highway. Ford did clarify though that the fuel economy figures are for the FWD hybrid version only and not the AWD version which will be less fuel-efficient.
Ford’s popular Escape small crossover has been completely overhauled. The latest model promises greater performance, fuel economy, comfort and features, all in a more-stylish and refined package. Sounds like progress to us!
The Escape was introduced way back in 2001. Since then, the nameplate has gone through three generations, with the fourth coming out for model year 2020. During its near-two decades on the market, the Escape has won many sales for Ford. In fact, it’s the brand’s second-best selling model after the chart-topping F-Series truck family. More than 4.5 million of them have been delivered to North American motorists since its introduction.
Part of the reason for this showroom success has been the Escape’s spunky dynamics and generally handsome styling, but innovation has been just as important. In 2005 Ford introduced a hybrid version of this vehicle, the first gasoline-electric SUV.
Improving the breed, this 2020 model is more than 200 pounds lighter than its predecessor thanks to the extensive use of high-strength steel in its underlying structure. This should make the all-new version extremely safe as well. The 2020 Ford Escape is also the most aerodynamic one ever, thanks to its optimized liftgate spoiler, advanced underbody shielding and careful wind-tunnel tuning. A combustion-powered, front-wheel drive model will offer an EPA-estimated driving range of at least 400 miles per tank. The hybrid variant ought to deliver in excess of 550 miles from one fill-up to another.
Despite its enhanced efficiency, this is one handsome crossover. The new Escape’s smooth bodywork and clean lines are attractive from just about every angle. Its trapezoidal grille drew inspiration from the automaker’s iconic Mustang. The Escape’s lower portions supposedly were inspired by the Ford GT supercar.
Two combustion engines are offered in this crossover and so are two hybrid drivetrains. A 1.5-liter EcoBoost inline-three serves base duty, a 2.0-liter turbo-four is the more-muscular offering. Both powerplants are matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission. For added efficiency, a standard hybrid model is on the menu, but Ford will also offer an even more efficient plug-in hybrid, one with a generous all-electric driving range.
The Ford Escape is built in Louisville, Kentucky, though its various engines are sourced from Mexico, the UK and even Spain.