Ford Escape Hybrid 2022: plug-in hybrid arrives in Australia

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The Ford Escape range has now expanded to include the ST-Line PHEV model which starts at $53,440 before on-road costs. 

If you are after something at a lower price point, the Escape range kicks off at $36,490 for the front-wheel drive Escape automatic. A higher spec Vignale trim starts from $47,090 before on-road costs.

The Ford Escape competes with other mid-size SUVs including the Toyota RAV4, MG ZS, Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage.

You can read a review on the new Ford Escape plug-in hybrid here.  

Powertrains and performance

The Ford Escape, ST-Line and Vignale models all use a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder Ecoboost engine producing 183kW of power and 387Nm of torque. 

The new PHEV model uses a non-turbo 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with electric motor and produces a combined output of 167kW. Ford claims a 56km pure electric range thanks to a 14.4kWh battery.

The 2.0-litre unit is paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission powering the wheels by means of front- or all-wheel drive. The new PHEV is only offered in FWD.

Standard features for the Ford Escape 

Standard equipment on the base Escape model includes a 12.3-inch digital driver cluster, 8.0-inch touchscreen, a six-speaker sound system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, satellite navigation, wireless charging and both USB A and C connections. 

Keyless entry, LED headlights and taillights and 18-inch alloy wheels are also standard. 

Additional features on the higher ST-Line variants include alloy sport pedals, artificial leather sports steering wheel, power tailgate, dual exhaust system, rear spoiler, black roof rails and unique ST-Line 18-inch wheels. 

The Vignale adds a ten-speaker sound system, head-up display, privacy glass, panoramic sunroof, silver roof rails, 19-inch alloy wheels (or 20-inch alloys as an option) and a 10-way power adjustable driver seat.

Safety for the Ford Escape

Standard safety technology across the entire range includes adaptive cruise control, AEB with pedestrian protection, a driver impairment monitor, hill hold and hill launch assist, lane keeping assist, front and rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera, rear cross traffic alert, traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition and tyre pressure monitoring.

On the Vignale models you also gain advanced auto parking assist and a front camera to assist in tight spots. 

Driver and front passenger, front side and front curtain and rear-side curtain airbags are standard across the Escape range. 

Ford Escape 2022: prices in Australia

All prices listed are before on-road costs.

• Escape FWD auto: $36,490
• Escape ST-Line FWD auto: $38,490
• Escape ST-Line AWD auto: $41,490
• Escape Vignale FWD auto: $47,090
• Escape Vignale AWD auto: $50,090
• Escape ST-Line PHEV FWD auto: $53,440