Test drive | Ford Escape hybrid: a little-known pioneer

What was the first hybrid SUV to emerge? Automatically, we would be tempted to answer the Toyota RAV4 as the identity of the Japanese manufacturer has been largely built around this technology. However, it is not. Rather, it was the Ford Escape that became a hybrid pioneer in its segment when it was introduced in August 2004. Nineteen years later, the compact SUV continues its path with a similar approach, but in a context that does not could be more different.

Design

Ford regulars will have noticed, this Escape appears with a more modern and assertive design for 2023. Most of the work was done on the facade. The grille is a little less visually striking and is topped with a Volkswagen-style light bar. The headlights are also more tapered and are placed below the hood line. Without being very daring, it gives it a new lease of life. Despite its name which suggests a certain sportiness, the ST-Line livery tested is basically just an aesthetic group adding certain carbon-colored bodywork elements married to a – false – protection plate imitating polished aluminum. The hybrid variant is discreetly labeled on the tailgate by means of a tiny badge.

On board

The interior of this Escape is sober and overall well presented. We appreciate the positioning of the new optional 13.2-inch multimedia screen, just high enough for readability, without affecting visibility too much. Depending on the choice you make, you have physical keys or a smooth strip of keys activating digital menus. The low dashboard modeled around soft materials is well designed. The red stitching depicting diamond and hexagonal patterns on the leather upholstery adds a little luxury to the look. It’s a shame, however, that these seats, with their short seat, their basic lateral support and their firm padding, do not give the impression of high quality. The interior volume is generous both for passengers and for the 974 L cargo space accessible via a wide tailgate opening.

Under the hood

Two turbocharged four-cylinder engines and two hybrid engines, one conventional and the other plug-in, make up the proposal. The example tested is powered by a 2.5L four-cylinder engine supported by an electric motor for 192 hp in total. Its CVT gearbox can transmit torque to all four wheels, an option while the standard livery is front-wheel drive. Ensuring remarkable efficiency of 5.4 L/100 km over nearly 500 km during the test period, it is also distinguished by its great discretion ensured by a homogeneous dialogue between the two engines. Its torque also gives it confidence in urban driving, but it cannot be characterized as fiery in any way, given that it has to move nearly 1700 kg. An “EV Coach” function helps guide the driver to optimize their driving in order to save fuel.

Behind the wheel

In this arena heavily populated with compact SUVs, the Escape stands out through the performance of its chassis. Very predictable and balanced, it contains the roll with confidence and its steering, just firm enough, is surprisingly effective, although it does not always offer a uniform feel when cornering. It is therefore difficult to always have the correct information on the behavior of the front axle, a weakness which is however less marked than with its rivals. Comfort is also very adequate, as is soundproofing, making it comfortable in multiple contexts. The only downside is the braking, which remains a little temperamental. At the end of the pedal stroke, it becomes clearly too sensitive, forcing continual adjustment when traveling at low speed.

Embedded technologies

Far from the first iteration of this system which must still give its owners hives because it was so unstable, the SYNC 4 is a model of intuitiveness. Its new horizontal touch screen complements it well with the configurable digital instrumentation, equipment which has become very common. The tabs are clear and well laid out and the permanent positioning of the heating and cooling menu at the bottom, even when CarPlay or Android Auto is in operation, is well thought out. That said, nothing replaces the good old rotary dials, still present in less opulent liveries. Finally, let us note a construction of options that is not really competitive. Adaptive cruise control is not included as standard, nor are heated seats or all-wheel drive.

The verdict

So, this hybrid Escape still has its reason for existence at a time when the electric offer is becoming greater and greater? Yes, but always as a transitional technology. The frugality of its mechanics and its user-friendliness make it a product that deserves more attention in the face of Japanese and South Korean rivals. No doubt too busy promoting its F-150, Ford would benefit from paying it more attention. Its version structure, however, makes it a contender that is not always competitive, as evidenced by the $53,379 required to purchase the model tested. Despite its very detailed equipment, it is obviously much too expensive for a livery that is not pluggable. The Escape would benefit from a standard hybrid offering, an element that would set it apart and highlight this excellent engine. In the meantime, if the appeal of the options isn’t too great for you, this hybrid SUV is certainly interesting, but not class-leading.