The Escape’s four distinct powertrains all deliver the goods. We award a point for their overall polished performance, for a 6, though if we were scoring the plug-in hybrid separately, it might earn a 7.
It can be. All-wheel drive is available across the lineup, with the exception of the Escape Plug-in Hybrid. This system gives the Escape confidence in inclement weather, but with low ground clearance, the Escape is no off-roader.
How fast is the Ford Escape?
The base Escape, rated for 181 hp from its 1.5-liter turbo-3, meets demand in city traffic but highway speeds feel like work. For most driving, the Escape is a better choice when fitted with the optional 2.0-liter turbo-4, good for 250 hp and more potent acceleration.
The Escape is offered in two hybrid versions, a standard and a plug-in. Both get a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine with two electric motors and a lithium-ion battery pack. They’re quick from a stop and easily maintain speed while delivering good efficiency. Plug-in models can charge to full in about 3.5 hours from a Level 2 charger, which yields 37 miles of range. The CVT can be a little loud, though, particularly in the plug-in model.
The Escape’s ride is fantastic across the board, and the steering offers a nice heft. Don’t be fooled by ST-Line models’ sportier looks, though, as it’s all for show. Hybrids feature low-resistance tires and a softer ride.
