2025 Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid Review: The Smart & Efficient SUV
Introduction: The Best of Both Worlds
The 2025 Ford Escape® Plug-in Hybrid offers the perfect bridge to electrification, blending gas-free commuting with the freedom of a traditional hybrid for long trips. Starting at $37,400, it delivers an impressive EPA-estimated 37 miles of electric-only range and 101 MPGe. This single, well-equipped trim comes loaded with Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+, a heated steering wheel and front seats, and a large 13.2-inch SYNC® 4 touchscreen. It’s the ideal choice for drivers who want to significantly cut fuel costs and emissions without experiencing range anxiety, making it a top contender in the global compact SUV market.
2025 Escape Models: Pricing & Variants
Escape® Active™
Starting at $29,515
- 1.5L EcoBoost® Engine
- Available All-Wheel Drive
- BLIS® with Cross-Traffic Braking
- 8-inch SYNC 4 Touchscreen
Escape® ST-Line
Starting at $30,360
- Available Hybrid Engine
- Sporty Black Mesh Grille
- 18″ Rock Metallic Wheels
- Flat-Bottom Sport Steering Wheel
Escape® Platinum
Starting at $35,310
- Standard All-Wheel Drive
- 13.2″ LCD Touchscreen
- Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+
- Instrument Panel with Quilting Design
Escape® Plug-in Hybrid
Starting at $37,400
- 2.5L Plug-in Hybrid Engine
- 37-Mile Electric Range / 101 MPGe
- 13.2″ LCD Touchscreen
- Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+
- Heated Seats & Steering Wheel
Design: Stylish, Functional, and Modern
The 2025 Escape Plug-in Hybrid presents a sleek and contemporary design that balances sophistication with practicality. The front is defined by a piano black grille with an elegant chrome strip and distinctive LED signature lighting, creating an upscale look. Along the side, body-color door handles and mirror caps, plus a chrome beltline molding, add a touch of class. Standard 18-inch machined-face aluminum wheels, black roof-rack side rails, and dual chrome exhaust tips complete the athletic yet refined exterior. The standard power liftgate provides convenient, hands-free access to the cargo area.
Inside, the cabin is a comfortable and tech-forward space designed for daily life. Standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel ensure comfort in cold climates, a feature often optional in competitors. The second-row seats offer impressive flexibility, sliding forward or backward to optimize either rear legroom or cargo space. The 60/40 split-fold function adds even more versatility for carrying larger items. With eight cupholders, a center console with an armrest and media bin, and an overhead sunglasses holder, the interior is thoughtfully designed for real-world convenience, rivaling the practicality of the Honda CR-V Hybrid and Toyota RAV4 Prime.
Exterior Highlights
LED Lighting and Chrome Accents create an upscale appearance that stands out in the compact SUV segment. The standard power liftgate, heated sideview mirrors, and black roof rails add a high level of convenience and utility right from the base model.
Interior Versatility
Sliding Second-Row Seats are a class-exclusive feature that allows owners to choose between maximum cargo space or generous legroom for rear passengers, providing flexibility that rivals cannot match.
Performance and Efficiency: The Plug-in Advantage
The Escape Plug-in Hybrid is powered by an efficient 2.5L IVCT Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a confident total system output of 210 horsepower. Power is smoothly sent to the front wheels through an electronic CVT. This powertrain is engineered for maximum efficiency, allowing the vehicle to operate in selectable EV modes: all-electric (EV Now), all-gas (EV Later), or an automatic blend of both (EV Auto). This flexibility results in an impressive EPA-estimated 101 MPGe and an electric-only driving range of up to 37 miles, which is enough to cover the average American’s daily commute without using any gasoline.
Flexible Hybrid Power
210 Total System Horsepower provides smooth and adequate acceleration for daily driving. The eCVT ensures a seamless transition between electric and gas power, making for a quiet and refined driving experience that is perfect for city and highway use. Selectable drive modes tailor the vehicle’s response for different conditions.
Charging and Range
37 Miles Electric, 101 MPGe. The 14.4 kWh battery can be fully charged overnight (10-11 hours) on a standard 120V household outlet or in about 3.5 hours using a 240V Level 2 charger. This capability allows for gas-free commuting for many drivers, with the gas engine providing seamless backup for longer journeys without any range anxiety.
Technology: A Hub of Connectivity and Safety
The 2025 Escape Plug-in Hybrid is packed with an impressive array of standard technology that sets it apart from competitors. A large 13.2-inch SYNC® 4 touchscreen with Connected Navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay®, and Android Auto™ compatibility serves as the intuitive command center for entertainment and vehicle settings. An 8-inch digital instrument cluster is standard, with a stunning 12.3-inch full digital cluster and a driver-focused Head-Up Display available as options. Most impressively, the standard Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+ package provides a wealth of advanced driver-assist features, making every drive safer and less stressful.
SYNC® 4 and Connectivity
Large Screen, Wireless Freedom. The standard 13.2-inch screen is one of the largest in its class, offering an intuitive interface for navigation, audio, and climate controls. Wireless smartphone integration and a standard 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot via FordPass® Connect keep you connected on the go without the clutter of cables.
Co-Pilot360® Assist+
Advanced Driver Aids Standard. Unlike many competitors that charge extra for these features, the Escape PHEV includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering, Evasive Steering Assist, Intersection Assist, and BLIS® as standard equipment, providing exceptional value and peace of mind on every journey.
Safety: Comprehensive Protection Standard
Ford prioritizes safety by equipping the Escape Plug-in Hybrid with an extensive list of standard active and passive safety systems. The cornerstone is the Ford Co-Pilot360® suite, which includes Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, a Lane-Keeping System, and Auto High-Beam Headlamps. The vehicle also comes with the upgraded Co-Pilot360® Assist+ package, adding intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control and more. For passive safety, it features the Personal Safety System™ with dual-stage airbags, a driver knee airbag, and the Safety Canopy® System side-curtain airbags, all designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision.
Active Safety Systems
Proactive Driver Support. Features like BLIS® with Rear Cross-Traffic Braking, Rear Parking Sensors, and Evasive Steering Assist work together to provide an extra layer of awareness and can intervene to help avoid potential accidents.
Passive Safety & Security
Built for Protection. In addition to a full suite of airbags, the Escape features AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™, an SOS Post-Crash Alert System™, and a SecuriLock® Passive Anti-Theft System for complete peace of mind.
Why People Buy This SUV: The Smart, Flexible Choice
The Escape Plug-in Hybrid is for the pragmatic buyer who wants to embrace electrification without giving up the convenience of a gas engine. It’s the perfect vehicle for reducing daily fuel costs and emissions while retaining the freedom for spontaneous road trips.
Daily Commuters
Gas-Free Daily Driving. With 37 miles of electric range, many owners can handle their entire daily commute and errands without using a drop of gasoline, leading to significant long-term savings.
Eco-Conscious Families
Reduced Carbon Footprint. This vehicle allows families to lower their environmental impact during their most frequent drives around town, while still having a capable vehicle for family vacations without range anxiety.
Tech-Savvy Value Shoppers
Loaded with Standard Tech. The combination of a large touchscreen, wireless connectivity, and a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features as standard equipment offers incredible value compared to competitors.
Full Specifications Table: 2025 Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid
Powertrain & Efficiency
- EnginePlug-in Hybrid 2.5L IVCT Atkinson-Cycle I-4 Engine with a 14.4 kWh lithium-ion battery.
- Total System Horsepower210 hp, providing a balance of power and efficiency.
- TransmissionElectronic Continuously Variable Transmission (eCVT) for smooth, linear acceleration.
- DrivetrainStandard Front-Wheel Drive (FWD).
- Combined MPGe101 EPA-Estimated, reflecting outstanding efficiency in blended driving.
- Electric-Only Range37 Miles EPA-Estimated, perfect for most daily commutes.
- Selectable EV ModesEV Auto, EV Now (electric-only), EV Later (gas-only), and EV Charge.
Interior & Technology
- InfotainmentStandard SYNC® 4 with 13.2″ LCD Capacitive Touchscreen and Connected Navigation.
- ConnectivityWireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™, FordPass® Connect with 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot.
- Instrument Cluster8″ Color LCD Instrument Cluster standard; 12.3″ Full Digital Cluster is optional.
- Audio SystemStandard 6-speaker AM/FM Stereo; optional B&O® Sound System with 10 speakers and subwoofer.
- SeatingHeated, 8-way power driver seat and 4-way manual passenger seat with partial vinyl and cloth trim.
- Comfort FeaturesStandard Dual-Zone Auto Climate Control, Heated Steering Wheel, and Intelligent Access with Push-Button Start.
Safety & Driver-Assist
- Standard PackageFord Co-Pilot360® Assist+ including Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Centering, and Evasive Steering Assist.
- Blind Spot SystemStandard BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Rear Cross-Traffic Braking.
- Collision AvoidancePre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Pedestrian Detection, and Intersection Assist.
- Parking AidsStandard Rear Parking Sensors. Optional 360-Degree Camera and Reverse Brake Assist.
- Airbag SystemPersonal Safety System™, Driver Knee Airbag, Front Seat-Mounted Side-Impact Airbags, and Safety Canopy® System.
Exterior & Wheels
- Wheels18-inch Machined-Face Magnetic Aluminum Wheels with Painted Pockets.
- LightingLED Reflector Headlamps with LED Signature Lighting and LED Fog Lamps.
- GrillePiano Black Grille with an elegant Chrome Strip.
- ConvenienceStandard Power Liftgate and Heated Sideview Mirrors.
Competitive Edge: A Balanced Contender
Vs. Toyota RAV4 Prime
Value and Comfort. The Escape PHEV is typically more affordable and comes with more standard safety features. While the RAV4 Prime is significantly more powerful (302 hp) and offers AWD, the Escape provides a more comfortable ride and a better value proposition for those who don’t need the extra performance.
Vs. Hyundai Tucson PHEV
More Electric Range. The Escape boasts a longer electric-only range (37 miles vs. 33 miles), which is a key metric for PHEV buyers. While the Tucson offers standard AWD and a more daring design, the Escape’s extra gas-free miles give it a practical edge for daily commuting.
Pros and Cons: A Clear Breakdown
Pros
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Excellent Fuel Efficiency
With an EPA-estimated 101 MPGe and a 37-mile electric range, it dramatically cuts fuel costs for daily driving.
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Generous Standard Features
Comes loaded with Co-Pilot360® Assist+, a 13.2″ touchscreen, and heated seats/steering wheel, offering outstanding value.
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Comfortable and Practical Cabin
A smooth, quiet ride combined with versatile sliding rear seats makes it an ideal family vehicle.
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Freedom from Range Anxiety
The plug-in hybrid system allows for emission-free commuting plus the ability to take long trips without worrying about charging.
Cons
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Front-Wheel Drive Only
Unlike key competitors like the RAV4 Prime and Tucson PHEV, all-wheel drive is not an option.
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Modest Performance
The 210 hp powertrain is adequate for daily use but lacks the exciting acceleration offered by some rivals.
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Basic Interior Materials
Despite the high-tech features, the cabin has an abundance of hard plastics that feel less premium than others in the class.
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Limited Towing Capability
While a tow package is available, its capacity is limited, making it unsuitable for hauling heavier loads.
Final Verdict: The Sensible Step into Electrification
The 2025 Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid earns a solid 9.0/10. It is an intelligently packaged and highly efficient SUV that offers a compelling solution for those ready to reduce their fuel consumption without the compromises of a full EV. Its generous standard feature list, comfortable ride, and significant electric range make it one of the best all-around values in the PHEV segment. While it may not be the fastest or most stylish, it is arguably the most practical and sensible choice for the modern driver.
Overall Rating: 9.0 out of 10
Based on Efficiency, Value, and Practicality
