For a lot of people the plug in hybrid would be a better answer than a full EV. In the small town I live in there's exactly 1 EV charging station (at the electric company) and we are far from alone in that respect. Even in more populous areas it can be difficult to find a charging station, especially one capable of fast charging. With the plug-in hybrids you can enjoy electric driving for much of your travels without concern about finding a charging station.
@@DrivenCarReviews Tom,. That's the point though. From a practical sense that home charge may be all some people have available. The option to proceed forth on gasoline power could be important, depending on where a person happens to live.
Thank you for including the Dan Neil piece Tom. It was very informative(and I didn’t have to pay to read it: a double thank you). Your review was excellent as usual hitting all the high and low points equally.
Just got one that is 2 years old. Of the 1200 km I have driven in a week 850 are electric. Averaging 3L per hundred kilometers or over 70 mpg US. This is 5 times better than the SUV it replaced. Love the safety equipment. Might not hold up like our 2007 Prius but it was $24k cheaper than comparable RAV4 prime on the used market. That will buy another car if this doesn't last 15 years. And the fact you can plug it in a regular socket and charge over night (10 hours or so) is great as well.
I live in the Canadian interior and we get a long snow season here. I've never once felt like I needed AWD in a FWD car - only ever desired 4x4 on RWD vehicles. 4-wheel ABS and FWD is all you need in the snow. We're so spoiled by the overinclusion of unnecessary features that make exorbitant pricing seem more sensible, to the point that people now have fear of missing out on a feature they won't benefit from unless they're trying to take it rallying or turn it into a dune buggy. It also builds lazy driving habits. At the same time I buy all your points about interior comforts vs something like the Tucson (once again, we're whining about features that didn't exist a few years ago, like wireless charging and heated rear seats), even though they're marginal unless you're downgrading from a Maybach... I get that car reviewers aren't the type of people to only buy a new vehicle once every 10 or 20 years, but it would also be nice to compare it to, say, a 2012 Escape EcoBoost. You could also compare the Tucson to its 2017 counterpart...
"But yes remote start is part of Toyota's Connected Service (i.e. subscription) and is listed under Remote Connect as $8/month or $80/year. So, even if you use your key fob to do remote start, it won't work after the subscription expires." And for that reason I'm choosing this Ford over the Toyota Rav4 Prime. Ford does not charge for FordConnect App.
Come on Automakers... More PHEV's. AWD and better availability. PHEV is a great step forward for transport and we're all but ignoring it. Can't buy a phev in Ontario for trying. Waitlisted over a year.
I would argue if you put another brand logo on this there would be more fans of its looks. Plus give Ford credit for minimizing piano black in the interior. Overall packaging, use of space, and functionality is tops. Hopefully this has better steering feel than the gas models? And just a smidge more attention to the interior would really help. Corsair is actually overdone so, so share some of that cash, Ford accountants.
Excellent video and review! Very professional and high quality (In spite of the foggy weather)! All the facts and no fluff. Great cinematography. Thanks.
Evil twin is always the best part of the review, haha. I think Ford should consider their packaging if the top model is still not offering stuff that Hyundai/Kia and Toyota are in their plugins. Vented seats, heated back row, wireless CarPlay should be standard on a top trim. Perhaps they have a Lincoln twin that has all that stuff and they just want to save it for "luxury."
The Escape plug in hybrid does have one other advantage, it can be flat towed (all 4 wheels on the ground) behind a motor home. I wish this capability was available on an AWD plug in hybrid, but I haven't found one.
Great reviews as always, Tom! With your review I know that I made a good decision on buying my Kia Sorento PHEV Prestige with its masculine look, AWD, standard six seats, real spare tire, traditional six speed auto, 360 top view camera, nappa leather, so despite its higher MSRP I still think it’s a better value than this Ford Escape Platinum PHEV. Full disclosure I can take full advantage of the federal tax credits of $6600 as well.
The Sorento does have a much nicer interior. At the higher trims it seems like a slam dunk. At the lower trims the Escape starts $12k cheaper and is a great value proposition for $28k after tax credit. Ford also does offer a real spare tire in addition to the flat repair kit, but it's optional not standard.
A fine car. I rented a top spec gas engine model that I think was a 3-cylinder. For nine days around the breadth and length of the SF Bay Area, it was sufficiently peppy, nimble, comfortable and the safety bells and whistles were appreciated. I was impressed, although, yes, the interior is relatively plasticky. I eventually purchased a brand new 2021 top spec VW Jetta for less than $30k MSRP (no ADM), which I consider a German Accord for Civic money, with a fine interior. I'm still not sold on the plug-in proposition; I'd prefer a regular hybrid. So I'd seriously consider a regular hybrid Ford Escape ... OR (!) a Tiguan HYBRID (it's coming soon).
I drive almost all freeway ( off times) to /from the office. HOV lane is like the Autobahn-especially at night so looking at more real-world ( C & D 75 mph tests) EV's lose way too much range from what they claim ( insert fanboy comment here)-so this is the absolute best choice for my situation after 130,000 miles in my Clarity.
Friendly suggestion -- I watch YT reviews trying to find out 2 things in particular: is there a knob for the audio volume? And is there a knob to change the interior temperature? Honestly, those are the 2 things I adjust regularly while driving. Other stuff I can pull over and stop to do. And yet, because of the influence of Tesla, fewer and fewer cars have real controls for those things (hence, my video watching). I would suggest a) a video on the topic of physical controls and b) incorporate this into every review (i.e., show us, right up front in the review, does this thing have controls?) I'll bet both of those would be super popular.
I typically complain bitterly if basic control knobs are not in a vehicle. I'm guessing that video would be very few views knowing what I know about the algorithm.
It's wild to me that car manufacturers will say "designed for women" like this the 1960's. Also nobody figure out that Jeeps are so popular because women like them? Those aren't "designed for women"
What would be a great idea for PHEV car manufacturers is to have the possibility to upgrade or change the battery after a couple of years (5-10 years). We own a C-Max Energi 2013 the car is great but the battery lost more than 60% of it's energy. And we can't do anything about that! We try living the 3 R's (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) But these car manufacturers don't seem the be on the same wave lenght!. Please Ford, make it possible to change the battery at a reasonable price.
I think the biggest hurdle with PHEVs is education both on the dealer side and consumer side. They’re so often misunderstood even though they’re a great option for a lot of people for the short term as DCFC infrastructure is developing.
Every dealer is different. A friend of mine got a Prime at MSRP. And if you're spending $40K plus on a vehicle, I'd want to check it out first. But I'm pragmatic.
I bought a phev escape 2 weeks ago but found it on a Sunday night and took off work Monday to go and buy it. Very few available in Ohio. Mild dealer mark-up but seems normal these days and I got a lot for my trade.
I think it is kind of funny people are so worried about AWD. I live in a cold/winter climate and I have been driving a Toyota Prius for 8 years without any need for AWD. I will take my $15k savings over the RAV4 and its extra 5 miles of electric range and use that to help me buy a full electric in 5 years when there is better infrastructure where I live for charging. Oh yeah, the review forgot to mention ford actually lets you order these...as opposed to Kia or Toyota where you just have to hope your dealer will get one in stock someday...and that they don't bump the MSRP by $5k.
Tires are very important but there are advantages to AWD. Perhaps you live in a city used to dealing with snow. There are areas that don't have extensive snow removal service because it's cost prohibitive. Seattle / Tacoma / Portland being a few. Any good dealership will check what they have coming and let you reserve. And if you don't think there are Ford dealers marking up vehicles significantly, I suggest visiting a few.
@@DrivenCarReviews I ordered a Ford Escape PHEV and got it $500 below MSRP. I should be receiving it in about two weeks. I was told the price would remain the same as the quote I was given when I reserved it. I went to a number of Kia dealers and I was told I could give them my name and number and they would call when they had what I was looking for...I haven't heard back from them. I do live in a state that knows how to deal with snow, but I'm not in a city. Thanks for the review, it was interesting, I just think the AWD concern is overblown...and that's from someone who lives in a place that has winter for 6 months of the year.
Really hope Ford is planning on sliding this powertrain in the Maverick. But since the PHEV Escape has been so hard to come by, I’m not getting hopes up for any time soon.
Tom, I hesitate to say it but I am nearly as excited about rear seats that slide back and forth as your twin. That kind of seating adaptability ought to be mandatory in all these 'utility' vehicles. Whatever happened to those fold-forward front passenger seats that also added so much cargo flexibility? It seems that buying Daewoos disguised as Buicks or Chevrolets is the only way to get them.
Couldn't agree more - letting you tap into unused space for more seating or more utility is a no-brainer but almost impossible to find. Sienna redesign just put the 2nd row on massive rails that I think is slick - same with this car, allowing a bit more access to that leg room if you want it.
@@DrivenCarReviews I don't use mine all the time but I use it often enough to really wonder why it is not standard equipment on every vehicle with a rear hatch.
this is really intriguing. im thinking if they can get these plug in hybrids up to 60-70 all electric, then you kind of get it all. ability to charge and run on electric for 75% of your travel needs, with the confidence of longer road trips and when you arent able to sufficiently re-charge it or whatnot. add in ability to power your home in an emergency, wow, jack of all trades.
When Tom complains about a $43,000 dollar interior looking cheap for the price of this car it's way worse when you buy a $45,000-80,000 pickup truck [yes GM I'm talking to you, and it's mostly plastic in the interior. making your luxury truck look like part were from an Ikea part store.] So you get a luxury truck for over a 60K truck and $10k in molded cheap plastic. There is a lot of electrical wiring, the charging battery, the computer controls for assistant driving and the transaxel. So the interior plastic isn't that bad for a $43,000 dollar car with top trim level. If you detail them with interior trim cleaners with gloss the molded plastic will pop and look much better. Vehicles aren't detailed at the dealerships for real shiny interiors for a better look. For 2023 there should be a new sports trim coming for this car. For press reviews manufacturers don't detail the interiors either for RUclips channels. I know you drove a press car by the mileage on the odometer from TFLnow. Also I have been in a 2020 Toyota Corolla and it's interior isn't much better than an Escape and Toyota's cost more.
How does it do on the Highway at 125kph? Whistling A pillars? How do the dampers feel over broken pavement? Does it crash and bang over bumps? Are the seat, steering wheel heating physical buttons or are they in the touch screen?
Good review. Shame that (1) no fast charging is available, enabling longer distance electric travelling (2) perhaps al alternative a bigger battery could ensure an EV distance of min 50 75 Miles.
@@DrivenCarReviews ~40 miles of ev only would actually let me go to and from work (20 miles with a steep one mile 6%grade) on ev only if I don't mind going a little slow up the hill. I am not in a place where I can buy new, so I am looking forward to when more plug in hybrids come onto the used market.
@@DrivenCarReviews First, they are few and far between for the whole area. Second, until now they were still selling 2021s, even if you ordered now, you'd get one next month. Third, dealer surcharge is almost $10K, which makes the gas savings N/A.
On electric sounds, I find Toyota’s to be particularly grating. Everyone in my neighborhood seems to be snapping up RAV4 Hybrids, whether Prime or not, and they make quite a loud hum when you drive them at low speed. I think it might be louder in reverse than in drive, I’m not sure, but I live on the seventh floor of my apartment building and I can hear them clear as day if they’re parking on the street below. Other cars just sound like a quiet whoosh of tires because it’s a slow side street, but you can *always* pick out the Toyota hybrids.
13:20, I mean for around $36k.. I’d say this is pretty darn good. Use that low entry price to buy some high quality winter tires, and you got a winner. 👍🏻
Hey Tom thanks for the review. Quick question can you run the heater in electric only mode or does it force the gas engine on? also, I have a 2012 Prius plug-in and it was one of those cars that only got 12 miles per charge. I plug it in every single time and my lifetime MPG is 94 miles per gallon. I still own it and drive it every day. However it’s down now two about 8 1/2 miles per charge but still gives me great mileage overall. Thanks again Tom.
Not necessarily. The engine does turn on for a mile in ev mode for some "system performance adjustment" reasons. Other than that, the entire 30 mile ride, 28-29 was electric for me.
It’s true, I do get the “Engine on for system performance” message from time to time. Mostly in hill descents or if I push the throttle all the way; but it quickly return to all electric after a minute or so. And the heat pump do work in “EVmode”
I think the only climate control setting that needs the gas engine is the coolest AC setting. That's what the salesman at the dealer said. Heat is easy because you can manipulate your motor's cooling system to send heat to the car, but refrigerants need much more energy to stay cool.
Was reluctant to consider Ford for a PHEV as was only looking at the Toyotas, Hyundais and Kias but now with this not having AWD which is recommended in our area of snowy weather definitely a big miss by Ford…also, their fit finish & mat’ls pale in comparison to the Japanese & Korean brands!
I was in favor of a plug-in hybrid until you pointed out one thing: you’d have to maintain both a gas engine and an electric one and now I’m not too sure about PHEVs anymore!
Don't look at it that way. I have a Ford C-Max with 220,000 miles on it. The thing you have to consider is the gasoline engines don't work anywhere near as hard in these vehicles as they do in a gas only vehicle. Oil changes are ten thousand miles intervals. I've had nothing major go wrong with my vehicle. In a hybrid vehicle everything is less stressed. In my opinion that makes everything last longer.
Michael has a point. Typically, oil changes are every two years for us. When running mostly on electric, the engine runs very little. EVs obviously eliminate the fossil fuel part completely, but for people who take long trips on a regular basis the flexibility of a PHEV could be just what's needed. Depends on the buyer. Buy the car that works for you.
Oil changes should be done every six months because the oil gets contaminated with water and other impurities over time regardless of miles/hours on the engine. Other than that though, there is much less wear and tear on the gas engine in a hybrid which in turn will lower your overall maintenance cost vs gas-only vehicle.
@@toronado455 Oil changes are set at a minimum of two years on my Chevy volt and the oil life monitor handles that. Drive on gas a lot and you’ll change your oil as often as a regular ice mobile. GM’s engineers account for things like moisture and the need to occasionally start up the engine, by including something called engine maintenance mode. If you haven’t used the engine at all in six weeks in a Volt, it will start up and run for about 10 minutes til it reaches full temperature, at a low rpm. There is also a fuel maintenance mode that forces you to use up at least one tank of gasoline each year. Specially designed tank that is pressurized allows the gas to last longer than in conventional cars. These are of course just my statements regarding the Chevy volt. I don’t know if the Escape here has the exact same concept behind it. I’ve had my Volt for 7 years and done 3 oil changes so far. Air filter looked new when changed at 45,000.
As always Tom, a great review. Had a ‘14 escape. With a turbo 4 cylinder…head gasket went at 35k then timing belt at 60k …..I state this wondering, when the engine on a hybrid goes, can you drive on plug in only? Cause, my confidence on Ford products is pretty low…thanks
It kinda feels like "hey Ford caught up with Toyota!... Toyota from 2005 it looks. Shame about that paint." Not bad, I agree with the 2wd choice but the seat comfort is discount, bad choice. With good tires, including winters, almost no one needs a heavier AWD.
Funny that people comment on this paint. Not to defend Ford (or any other manufacturer) but it's par for the course these days. I've seen it on $80K cars. Modern waterborne paint conforms to emission restrictions. Even expensive vehicles has some orange peel these days. Here's an excellent resource- newoldcars.com/orange-peel-why-your-new-car-paint-may-look-so-bad/
@@DrivenCarReviews I thought that was odd too but that makes sense and thanks for the resource. I'm a fan of what Ford has done to build the "cradle to cradle" manufacturing design method and limit toxics, there's definitely a there there. As a Tesla owner partly due to your opinions, I have nothing to chirp at others about when it comes to paint. (I miss my 944t is all.)
@@acchaladka All automakers have gone to that paint pretty sure. Ultra premium brands will hand sand to get rid of any peel. I'm sure you miss the 944, love those. And oof, I've sen some horrible paint on Teslas. Hope it has a handle on that by now.
Seems like the Escape is great in some areas, pretty mundane in others. Still, they'll sell a ton of them despite the mediocre design; handsome if not generic. Headlights are cool if nothing else. Another great review all the same.
@@RLTtizME Depressed? Not at all. I like what Ford has produced and even a design like this Escape has many virtues to admire. I know it will be a success for them as it should be. But in terms of design, it is very conventional (forgettable?), saddled from being truly great by Ford's ongoing ability to straddle its interiors with cheap plastics and cost-cutting materials. You should also read up on the Focus's transmissions that are plagued with innumerable failures and recalls that has turned off many a Ford owners. I truly want Ford to succeed (and they will), but they still have serious issues to address that they tend to ignore.
One of the Manufacturers need to make a PHEV with 100 mill EV range, they will sell like hot cakes. No need to even thing about ICE or EV. EV for daily & Hybrid for road trips. No charging for road trips and home charging daily. Win Win Win!
Install a bidet in your washroom or a minimalist ultra slim bidet on your existing toilet and you won't need to go to Costco as often to buy all that toilet tissue.
I'd bet that Ford will not be selling very many Escape PHEVs. RAV4 Prime is far better as a plug-in SUV and VW ID4 AWD is more fun to drive with free charging.
I want to fight Ford for keeping AWD/4WD from Escape & Maverick, respectively. Watch them add it in 2 yrs when launch buyers are waist deep in depreciation. Ford's some bamas at times...
Must be all the orange peel on that paint that keeps the GoPro from properly sticking. Before car prices went entirely bonkers, I was considering getting a used 2019 or 2020 Fusion Titanium Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid, mostly because I wanted heated and vented seats along with decent gas mileage. I have to say, the interiors of those Fusions looked more upscale than this, although I actually like the wood trim. I'm not a fan of giant rims, but the wheels look surprisingly small for the top-of-the-line trim level. It's altogether kind of "meh" and would be fine at $30,000, but what they're asking for it is a bit much.
Funny that people comment on this paint. Not to defend Ford (or any other manufacturer) but it's par for the course these days. I've seen it on $80K cars. Modern waterborne paint conforms to emission restrictions. Even expensive vehicles has some orange peel these days. Here's an excellent resource- newoldcars.com/orange-peel-why-your-new-car-paint-may-look-so-bad/
@@DrivenCarReviews Oh, this paint is definitely not terrible. I think more than anything, some of the shots just caught the light at the right angle to highlight it. Owners can always get it ceramic-coated for the polished mirror finish if they want.
Funny that people comment on this paint. Not to defend Ford (or any other manufacturer) but it's par for the course these days. I've seen it on $80K cars. Modern waterborne paint conforms to emission restrictions. Even expensive vehicles have some orange peel these days. Here's an excellent resource- newoldcars.com/orange-peel-why-your-new-car-paint-may-look-so-bad/
Question: another reviewer complained the gasoline engine would kick on even in “EV only” mode. Did you experience that, particularly since it’s winter?
Yes it does do that but only really when the batteries are cold or you have less than 3 miles on the electric range. It will also kick in if you push the accelerator past like 1/2. In my experience its a great car and you can definitely drive it ev only for at least 25 miles.
I like the design of the new Escape (I'm a guy). The angry car design language is everywhere so it's refreshing to see a more 'feminine' looking car. The omitting of 2nd row heated seats and AWD will dissuade Canadians
Hybrids are for people who want to go electric but are afraid of the unknown. Hybrids are like training wheels for new EV owners. After they own & learn how to live with a hybrid, their next car will be a BEV. maybe. !
Sometimes. A RAV4 Prime owner I know lives in the city but needs to travel to his parents house a couple times a month. There's no charge infrastructure in the rural area so the PHEV is perfect for his needs.
Chevy Volt was not wildly successful because it had wrong concept, borrowing it from gas-electric locomotive. Escape borrows its concept from Prius, which is much better.
Cadillac absolutely wasted their finest effort in the history of the brand on the styling of the ELR. It is the best looking (Art and Science) car that they have ever produced and it was so short lived it is a shame. I thought they might try to save it by swapping in a gas engine, but no. That LOOK with a twin turbo 3.0 V6. OH YEAH. Edit: Hey, they could have called it the V-LR.
The problem with the ELR was it was basically a carbon copy of the Volt powertrain. They should have beefed up the battery, motor and engine to make it a (plug-in) hybrid sports car. Especially since it was coming out at the same time as famous PHEV supercars like the 918 Sypder and LaFerrari, when people might have been responsive to buying a hybrid sports car. Neat design, but they had bad optics about the price and specs.
@@0hypnotoad0 Yes, they had the Volt. They should have built a gas powered coupe for Cadillac, maybe with EV assist. I think they were trying to get Cadillac buyers to cough up big money to pay for the losses on the Volt.
Actually, it was changed a bit and tuned for more power. The 2016 model even more. I know WAY too much about that car. A lot of people that wrote about it got quite a bit wrong. But overpricing a 2-door coupe in a market that wants SUVs and then neglecting to tell people about it is a disaster waiting to happen.
@@DrivenCarReviews Yes, I remember that they bumped up the power and lowered the price but by that time it was too late. You got yours for a song. Good for you. Beautiful car.
Thanks, Tom! feel Ford could have done better. Having the gas engine come on under hard acceleration is very disappointing. Also, it should have an optional rear electric motor for AWD. I suspect the Mach E team did not work on this vehicle. FYI, having a gas engine does NOT alleviate range anxiety - my wife proves this regularly when she runs the tank down to 1 or 0 miles left as her car coasts into the gas station. AAA discontinued it emergency charging program because nobody needed it.
Ford Escapes are terrible. I have one. They built Escapes from 2013 - 2019 with all 4 doors hitting chipping paint. I told them about the problem in Sept 2012 and they never fixed the manufacturing blunder. They simply do not care about quality then because they do not address problems. It was a simple fix to update CAD system install of doors moving rear doors rearward by a few millimetres during install.
If Ford has decided to replace their sedans with these crossovers, then they need to do a whole helluva lot better than this half-hearted effort. Exterior styling is sad, and interior quality and features seem lacking. ESPECIALLY at this price. I mean, this is ridiculous.
You do realize that in all those states that have snow most ambulances, semi trucks, and busses are not AWD right? People get along fine without AWD as long as they are on improved roads with less than a foot of snow and proper tires. .
@@gondorian1006 Living in snow country you know the majority of all modern ambulances, fire trucks, manciples, business, other government vehicles etc. have AWD and 4x4 from Ford, Ram, Freightliner, Spartan, International, PACCAR, etc right? AWD & 4x4 are now commonly standard. Not doing so in snow country significantly limits market share. We just had a major snow storm and those with front wheel drive and rear, even with chains. got stranded.
@@DrivenCarReviews Tires are critical but as we just had a major snow storm those with only front wheel drive or rear wheel drive, regardless of tires, without 4x4 or a good AWD system got stuck. Even chains on front wheel drive or real wheel drive vehicles got stuck on our hills. We are in Colorado Springs, Colorado and live on Cheyenne Mountain about 7000ft above sea level.
@@DrivenCarReviews My Lexus RX450h AWD 3 motor hybrid has awesome fuel economy and the rear electric motor provides extra regenerative braking to charge the battery and kicks in a nano second when needed for extra traction and/or acceleration. The AWD system is better than our 2021 Toyota 4Runner 4x4 Limited.
For a lot of people the plug in hybrid would be a better answer than a full EV. In the small town I live in there's exactly 1 EV charging station (at the electric company) and we are far from alone in that respect. Even in more populous areas it can be difficult to find a charging station, especially one capable of fast charging. With the plug-in hybrids you can enjoy electric driving for much of your travels without concern about finding a charging station.
In a small town, I would figure a lot of people live in single family homes. Charging where you sleep is the way to go.
@@DrivenCarReviews Tom,. That's the point though. From a practical sense that home charge may be all some people have available. The option to proceed forth on gasoline power could be important, depending on where a person happens to live.
The EPA Rating is 37 but I got 44Miles on my baby. I love it, and since I live in PR I do not miss 4wheelDrive.
I have the SEL Plug-in Hybrid.
As always great and detailed review. A real treat seeing Leslie Nielsen making a cameo too!
At least you're not calling me Shirley.
Thank you for including the Dan Neil piece Tom. It was very informative(and I didn’t have to pay to read it: a double thank you).
Your review was excellent as usual hitting all the high and low points equally.
I agree, not including AWD on this PHEV is a big miss.
cant say ive ever needed an AWD.
Unless you have hills to drive snow tires enhance braking and handling.
Just got one that is 2 years old. Of the 1200 km I have driven in a week 850 are electric. Averaging 3L per hundred kilometers or over 70 mpg US. This is 5 times better than the SUV it replaced. Love the safety equipment. Might not hold up like our 2007 Prius but it was $24k cheaper than comparable RAV4 prime on the used market. That will buy another car if this doesn't last 15 years. And the fact you can plug it in a regular socket and charge over night (10 hours or so) is great as well.
I live in the Canadian interior and we get a long snow season here. I've never once felt like I needed AWD in a FWD car - only ever desired 4x4 on RWD vehicles. 4-wheel ABS and FWD is all you need in the snow. We're so spoiled by the overinclusion of unnecessary features that make exorbitant pricing seem more sensible, to the point that people now have fear of missing out on a feature they won't benefit from unless they're trying to take it rallying or turn it into a dune buggy. It also builds lazy driving habits.
At the same time I buy all your points about interior comforts vs something like the Tucson (once again, we're whining about features that didn't exist a few years ago, like wireless charging and heated rear seats), even though they're marginal unless you're downgrading from a Maybach... I get that car reviewers aren't the type of people to only buy a new vehicle once every 10 or 20 years, but it would also be nice to compare it to, say, a 2012 Escape EcoBoost. You could also compare the Tucson to its 2017 counterpart...
"But yes remote start is part of Toyota's Connected Service (i.e. subscription) and is listed under Remote Connect as $8/month or $80/year. So, even if you use your key fob to do remote start, it won't work after the subscription expires."
And for that reason I'm choosing this Ford over the Toyota Rav4 Prime. Ford does not charge for FordConnect App.
Come on Automakers... More PHEV's. AWD and better availability. PHEV is a great step forward for transport and we're all but ignoring it. Can't buy a phev in Ontario for trying. Waitlisted over a year.
I would argue if you put another brand logo on this there would be more fans of its looks. Plus give Ford credit for minimizing piano black in the interior. Overall packaging, use of space, and functionality is tops. Hopefully this has better steering feel than the gas models? And just a smidge more attention to the interior would really help. Corsair is actually overdone so, so share some of that cash, Ford accountants.
My wife drives a Challenger- definitely no minivan here. Great review as always, wish more people considered plug-ins.
Excellent video and review! Very professional and high quality (In spite of the foggy weather)! All the facts and no fluff. Great cinematography. Thanks.
Evil twin is always the best part of the review, haha. I think Ford should consider their packaging if the top model is still not offering stuff that Hyundai/Kia and Toyota are in their plugins. Vented seats, heated back row, wireless CarPlay should be standard on a top trim. Perhaps they have a Lincoln twin that has all that stuff and they just want to save it for "luxury."
Evil twin is a Tom Voelk exclusive!
And it's so well produced with the timing etc. Also, it appears the evil twin lives is only ever interested in the rear seats!
The Escape plug in hybrid does have one other advantage, it can be flat towed (all 4 wheels on the ground) behind a motor home. I wish this capability was available on an AWD plug in hybrid, but I haven't found one.
Great review as always but NO THANKS on the Escape.
Thanks for a comprehensive review..I am a hybrid fan..looks worthy of my hard earned wampum..
Great reviews as always, Tom! With your review I know that I made a good decision on buying my Kia Sorento PHEV Prestige with its masculine look, AWD, standard six seats, real spare tire, traditional six speed auto, 360 top view camera, nappa leather, so despite its higher MSRP I still think it’s a better value than this Ford Escape Platinum PHEV. Full disclosure I can take full advantage of the federal tax credits of $6600 as well.
Enjoy!
The Sorento does have a much nicer interior. At the higher trims it seems like a slam dunk. At the lower trims the Escape starts $12k cheaper and is a great value proposition for $28k after tax credit. Ford also does offer a real spare tire in addition to the flat repair kit, but it's optional not standard.
Kia? bad move see Scotty Kilmers channel. No sugar coating just the facts.
A fine car. I rented a top spec gas engine model that I think was a 3-cylinder. For nine days around the breadth and length of the SF Bay Area, it was sufficiently peppy, nimble, comfortable and the safety bells and whistles were appreciated. I was impressed, although, yes, the interior is relatively plasticky. I eventually purchased a brand new 2021 top spec VW Jetta for less than $30k MSRP (no ADM), which I consider a German Accord for Civic money, with a fine interior. I'm still not sold on the plug-in proposition; I'd prefer a regular hybrid. So I'd seriously consider a regular hybrid Ford Escape ... OR (!) a Tiguan HYBRID (it's coming soon).
A PHEV is a hybrid when the battery is depleted.
Why aren’t you sold on plug ins yet?
13:29 Tom talks EV charging anxiety with a No Outlet sign centre stage 👏🏻👏🏻
I'm glad someone caught that.
You’re a true artiste! 👍🏻
I drive almost all freeway ( off times) to /from the office. HOV lane is like the Autobahn-especially at night so looking at more real-world ( C & D 75 mph tests) EV's lose way too much range from what they claim ( insert fanboy comment here)-so this is the absolute best choice for my situation after 130,000 miles in my Clarity.
Friendly suggestion -- I watch YT reviews trying to find out 2 things in particular: is there a knob for the audio volume? And is there a knob to change the interior temperature? Honestly, those are the 2 things I adjust regularly while driving. Other stuff I can pull over and stop to do. And yet, because of the influence of Tesla, fewer and fewer cars have real controls for those things (hence, my video watching). I would suggest a) a video on the topic of physical controls and b) incorporate this into every review (i.e., show us, right up front in the review, does this thing have controls?) I'll bet both of those would be super popular.
I typically complain bitterly if basic control knobs are not in a vehicle. I'm guessing that video would be very few views knowing what I know about the algorithm.
@@DrivenCarReviews That’s too bad
Thanks for the video. Looking for a plug-in hybrid with 4wd. Weird that the feature is not available on this vehicle.
It's wild to me that car manufacturers will say "designed for women" like this the 1960's. Also nobody figure out that Jeeps are so popular because women like them? Those aren't "designed for women"
I see those suction cups work as well for go-pros as they do to hold my phone.
Those alarm horns at the end sounded like the perfect cue to...escape
... and .... rimshot.
What would be a great idea for PHEV car manufacturers is to have the possibility to upgrade or change the battery after a couple of years (5-10 years). We own a C-Max Energi 2013 the car is great but the battery lost more than 60% of it's energy. And we can't do anything about that! We try living the 3 R's (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) But these car manufacturers don't seem the be on the same wave lenght!. Please Ford, make it possible to change the battery at a reasonable price.
I think the biggest hurdle with PHEVs is education both on the dealer side and consumer side. They’re so often misunderstood even though they’re a great option for a lot of people for the short term as DCFC infrastructure is developing.
Most homes the 120vac outlets are 15A. I'm luckier than most as my
garage is equipped with 120vac - 20A service for power tool & equipment
!
Can you really comparison test drive with the supply shortage? I’ve heard that RAV4 Primes are coming with huge dealer mark-ups.
Every dealer is different. A friend of mine got a Prime at MSRP. And if you're spending $40K plus on a vehicle, I'd want to check it out first. But I'm pragmatic.
I bought a phev escape 2 weeks ago but found it on a Sunday night and took off work Monday to go and buy it. Very few available in Ohio. Mild dealer mark-up but seems normal these days and I got a lot for my trade.
Love the suspension feel and handlingon the escape. Reminds me of driving my old VW Passat TDI.
I think it is kind of funny people are so worried about AWD. I live in a cold/winter climate and I have been driving a Toyota Prius for 8 years without any need for AWD. I will take my $15k savings over the RAV4 and its extra 5 miles of electric range and use that to help me buy a full electric in 5 years when there is better infrastructure where I live for charging. Oh yeah, the review forgot to mention ford actually lets you order these...as opposed to Kia or Toyota where you just have to hope your dealer will get one in stock someday...and that they don't bump the MSRP by $5k.
Tires are very important but there are advantages to AWD. Perhaps you live in a city used to dealing with snow. There are areas that don't have extensive snow removal service because it's cost prohibitive. Seattle / Tacoma / Portland being a few. Any good dealership will check what they have coming and let you reserve. And if you don't think there are Ford dealers marking up vehicles significantly, I suggest visiting a few.
@@DrivenCarReviews I ordered a Ford Escape PHEV and got it $500 below MSRP. I should be receiving it in about two weeks. I was told the price would remain the same as the quote I was given when I reserved it. I went to a number of Kia dealers and I was told I could give them my name and number and they would call when they had what I was looking for...I haven't heard back from them. I do live in a state that knows how to deal with snow, but I'm not in a city. Thanks for the review, it was interesting, I just think the AWD concern is overblown...and that's from someone who lives in a place that has winter for 6 months of the year.
Really hope Ford is planning on sliding this powertrain in the Maverick. But since the PHEV Escape has been so hard to come by, I’m not getting hopes up for any time soon.
Not with the chip shortage. And the Maverick shortage too. It really doesn't need to do anything for the next couple years.
Tom, I hesitate to say it but I am nearly as excited about rear seats that slide back and forth as your twin. That kind of seating adaptability ought to be mandatory in all these 'utility' vehicles. Whatever happened to those fold-forward front passenger seats that also added so much cargo flexibility? It seems that buying Daewoos disguised as Buicks or Chevrolets is the only way to get them.
Couldn't agree more - letting you tap into unused space for more seating or more utility is a no-brainer but almost impossible to find. Sienna redesign just put the 2nd row on massive rails that I think is slick - same with this car, allowing a bit more access to that leg room if you want it.
@@rkalla Adding extra adaptability in a large vehicle like a minivan is appreciated but in a smaller CUV or hatch it is critical.
@@rightlanehog3151 agreed!
Buick Encore does that front passenger fold thing. Loved it in my Volvos, used it all the time.
@@DrivenCarReviews I don't use mine all the time but I use it often enough to really wonder why it is not standard equipment on every vehicle with a rear hatch.
this is really intriguing. im thinking if they can get these plug in hybrids up to 60-70 all electric, then you kind of get it all. ability to charge and run on electric for 75% of your travel needs, with the confidence of longer road trips and when you arent able to sufficiently re-charge it or whatnot. add in ability to power your home in an emergency, wow, jack of all trades.
Honestly, with 35-45 miles of EV range, it takes care of 90% of our driving. No need to spend more on the battery.
My 2017 Chevy volt had a 60 mile electric range.
Loved the TP size reference! But was it 2 Ply or 3 Ply 😉?
Wow, a break in at the end!
Thanks again for a great review!
When Tom complains about a
$43,000 dollar interior looking cheap for the price of this car it's way worse when you buy a $45,000-80,000 pickup truck [yes GM I'm talking to you, and it's mostly plastic in the interior. making your luxury truck look like part were from an Ikea part store.] So you get a luxury truck for over a 60K truck and $10k in molded cheap plastic.
There is a lot of electrical wiring, the charging battery,
the computer controls for assistant driving and the transaxel. So the interior plastic isn't that bad for a $43,000 dollar car with top trim level.
If you detail them with interior trim cleaners with gloss the molded plastic will pop and look much better. Vehicles aren't detailed at the dealerships for real shiny interiors for a better look.
For 2023 there should be a new sports trim coming for this car. For press reviews manufacturers don't detail the interiors either for RUclips channels.
I know you drove a press car by the mileage on the odometer from TFLnow.
Also I have been in a 2020 Toyota Corolla and it's interior isn't much better than an Escape and Toyota's cost more.
perfect vehicle for him to review! finally all grand pa will watch
What an ignorant comment, were you raised by wolves? You're jealous cause you only have a goat.....
How does it do on the Highway at 125kph? Whistling A pillars? How do the dampers feel over broken pavement? Does it crash and bang over bumps? Are the seat, steering wheel heating physical buttons or are they in the touch screen?
Go drive one and report back to us.
Good review. Shame that
(1) no fast charging is available, enabling longer distance electric travelling
(2) perhaps al alternative a bigger battery could ensure an EV distance of min 50 75 Miles.
Both would increase the costs and aren't really necessary for most people. Ford's looking for the sweet spot.
@@DrivenCarReviews ~40 miles of ev only would actually let me go to and from work (20 miles with a steep one mile 6%grade) on ev only if I don't mind going a little slow up the hill. I am not in a place where I can buy new, so I am looking forward to when more plug in hybrids come onto the used market.
If only it had AWD...
Ready to get a RAV4 Prime, but dealers currently selling it $10K over MSRP, so it does not make sense.
Have you tried different dealerships?
@@DrivenCarReviews First, they are few and far between for the whole area. Second, until now they were still selling 2021s, even if you ordered now, you'd get one next month. Third, dealer surcharge is almost $10K, which makes the gas savings N/A.
It's a Toyotathon! Shut up and buy one.
Thank you very much for this review! This is on my short list... I am thinking of waiting for a new front end... this one is a snoozzzz fest!
It'll be a while for the new schnoz I have to believe.
On electric sounds, I find Toyota’s to be particularly grating. Everyone in my neighborhood seems to be snapping up RAV4 Hybrids, whether Prime or not, and they make quite a loud hum when you drive them at low speed. I think it might be louder in reverse than in drive, I’m not sure, but I live on the seventh floor of my apartment building and I can hear them clear as day if they’re parking on the street below. Other cars just sound like a quiet whoosh of tires because it’s a slow side street, but you can *always* pick out the Toyota hybrids.
Probably the pedestrian alert tone.
@@DrivenCarReviews it is.
9:05 The “Evil One” returns…
13:20, I mean for around $36k.. I’d say this is pretty darn good. Use that low entry price to buy some high quality winter tires, and you got a winner. 👍🏻
Tires. They make a huge difference.
I'm guessing there may be a Bronco Sport Plug in Hybrid in the future? That would be pretty sweet
Hey Tom thanks for the review. Quick question can you run the heater in electric only mode or does it force the gas engine on? also, I have a 2012 Prius plug-in and it was one of those cars that only got 12 miles per charge. I plug it in every single time and my lifetime MPG is 94 miles per gallon. I still own it and drive it every day. However it’s down now two about 8 1/2 miles per charge but still gives me great mileage overall. Thanks again Tom.
To be honest, I don't remember, but I'm thinking the heater works in EV mode.
Not necessarily. The engine does turn on for a mile in ev mode for some "system performance adjustment" reasons. Other than that, the entire 30 mile ride, 28-29 was electric for me.
It’s true, I do get the “Engine on for system performance” message from time to time. Mostly in hill descents or if I push the throttle all the way; but it quickly return to all electric after a minute or so.
And the heat pump do work in “EVmode”
I think the only climate control setting that needs the gas engine is the coolest AC setting. That's what the salesman at the dealer said. Heat is easy because you can manipulate your motor's cooling system to send heat to the car, but refrigerants need much more energy to stay cool.
Was reluctant to consider Ford for a PHEV as was only looking at the Toyotas, Hyundais and Kias but now with this not having AWD which is recommended in our area of snowy weather definitely a big miss by Ford…also, their fit finish & mat’ls pale in comparison to the Japanese & Korean brands!
AWD won't help you that much if you are in true snow.
@@tavistafford8010 How are things in San Diego?
@@miketresham4783 I am not in San Diego
I was in favor of a plug-in hybrid until you pointed out one thing: you’d have to maintain both a gas engine and an electric one and now I’m not too sure about PHEVs anymore!
Don't look at it that way. I have a Ford C-Max with 220,000 miles on it. The thing you have to consider is the gasoline engines don't work anywhere near as hard in these vehicles as they do in a gas only vehicle. Oil changes are ten thousand miles intervals. I've had nothing major go wrong with my vehicle. In a hybrid vehicle everything is less stressed. In my opinion that makes everything last longer.
Michael has a point. Typically, oil changes are every two years for us. When running mostly on electric, the engine runs very little. EVs obviously eliminate the fossil fuel part completely, but for people who take long trips on a regular basis the flexibility of a PHEV could be just what's needed. Depends on the buyer. Buy the car that works for you.
Oil changes should be done every six months because the oil gets contaminated with water and other impurities over time regardless of miles/hours on the engine. Other than that though, there is much less wear and tear on the gas engine in a hybrid which in turn will lower your overall maintenance cost vs gas-only vehicle.
@@toronado455 Oil changes are set at a minimum of two years on my Chevy volt and the oil life monitor handles that. Drive on gas a lot and you’ll change your oil as often as a regular ice mobile.
GM’s engineers account for things like moisture and the need to occasionally start up the engine, by including something called engine maintenance mode. If you haven’t used the engine at all in six weeks in a Volt, it will start up and run for about 10 minutes til it reaches full temperature, at a low rpm.
There is also a fuel maintenance mode that forces you to use up at least one tank of gasoline each year. Specially designed tank that is pressurized allows the gas to last longer than in conventional cars. These are of course just my statements regarding the Chevy volt. I don’t know if the Escape here has the exact same concept behind it.
I’ve had my Volt for 7 years and done 3 oil changes so far. Air filter looked new when changed at 45,000.
As always Tom, a great review. Had a ‘14 escape. With a turbo 4 cylinder…head gasket went at 35k then timing belt at 60k …..I state this wondering, when the engine on a hybrid goes, can you drive on plug in only? Cause, my confidence on Ford products is pretty low…thanks
You can drive it on ev only mode as long as you have at least 3 miles on the battery and don't push the accelerator past around 1/2
Does it matter if you choose sport mode and use ev only. Crazy combo:)
Aston Martin DBX Poverty Spec.
😂
It kinda feels like "hey Ford caught up with Toyota!... Toyota from 2005 it looks. Shame about that paint." Not bad, I agree with the 2wd choice but the seat comfort is discount, bad choice. With good tires, including winters, almost no one needs a heavier AWD.
Funny that people comment on this paint. Not to defend Ford (or any other manufacturer) but it's par for the course these days. I've seen it on $80K cars. Modern waterborne paint conforms to emission restrictions. Even expensive vehicles has some orange peel these days. Here's an excellent resource- newoldcars.com/orange-peel-why-your-new-car-paint-may-look-so-bad/
@@DrivenCarReviews I thought that was odd too but that makes sense and thanks for the resource. I'm a fan of what Ford has done to build the "cradle to cradle" manufacturing design method and limit toxics, there's definitely a there there. As a Tesla owner partly due to your opinions, I have nothing to chirp at others about when it comes to paint. (I miss my 944t is all.)
@@acchaladka All automakers have gone to that paint pretty sure. Ultra premium brands will hand sand to get rid of any peel. I'm sure you miss the 944, love those. And oof, I've sen some horrible paint on Teslas. Hope it has a handle on that by now.
Waiting for the Santa Fe PHEV review
Me too. Haven't seen one yet.
Tuscon PHEV is better.
Is there a reason when you were driving in the fog there aren’t daytime running lights, or at least “fog” lights?
DRLs are on. Fog lamps are useless in this situation and mess with my lens while shooting.
Not my fav, yet solid review
Seems like the Escape is great in some areas, pretty mundane in others. Still, they'll sell a ton of them despite the mediocre design; handsome if not generic. Headlights are cool if nothing else. Another great review all the same.
You seem depressed. Have that checked.
@@RLTtizME Depressed? Not at all. I like what Ford has produced and even a design like this Escape has many virtues to admire. I know it will be a success for them as it should be. But in terms of design, it is very conventional (forgettable?), saddled from being truly great by Ford's ongoing ability to straddle its interiors with cheap plastics and cost-cutting materials. You should also read up on the Focus's transmissions that are plagued with innumerable failures and recalls that has turned off many a Ford owners. I truly want Ford to succeed (and they will), but they still have serious issues to address that they tend to ignore.
@@christopherprose3881 I seem to have struck a nerve. 🤪👍
@@christopherprose3881 Dr. Farnsworth at the Crisis Center is trying to contact you. Please return her call. As always, have a better day.
Cheer up, better days ahead
One of the Manufacturers need to make a PHEV with 100 mill EV range, they will sell like hot cakes. No need to even thing about ICE or EV. EV for daily & Hybrid for road trips. No charging for road trips and home charging daily. Win Win Win!
Honestly, the 50 miles my wife gets is plenty. All you get after that is a big heavy battery that doesn't get used all the way.
It looks like Mazda will make a vehicle that will come close. The MX-30 PHEV.
@@CMCNestT MX-30 lost me on its cork-lined center console.
43k FOR THAT??????????
Front seats too short too high and too slippery in turns.
Steering annoyingly always wants to return to dead centre.
Otherwise a great car.
all about rav4 prime
RAV4 PRIME is so much better.
Did Kia ever produce cars for Ford. I heard information that Kia did. The former Kia emblem looks like it would fit. Any information would help.
Pretty sure the American Aspire and Festiva were built by Kia. The oval is the same shape so... Try the internet for more info.
Install a bidet in your washroom or a minimalist ultra slim bidet on your existing toilet and you won't need to go to Costco as often to buy all that toilet tissue.
Is this car smart enough to use gas, when the gas in the tank is getting old, even if there is charge in the battery?
Checking
@@DrivenCarReviews thanks!
Yes
I clicked thinking Aston Martin dbx review,i didn't read the title , thumbnail mislead me .they are so strikingly similar
I did the DBX if you're looking for it. Wasn't a popular video for some reason.
I'd bet that Ford will not be selling very many Escape PHEVs. RAV4 Prime is far better as a plug-in SUV and VW ID4 AWD is more fun to drive with free charging.
It looks like a base model, especially inside.
Escape looks so rental on the interior
I want to fight Ford for keeping AWD/4WD from Escape & Maverick, respectively. Watch them add it in 2 yrs when launch buyers are waist deep in depreciation. Ford's some bamas at times...
Must be all the orange peel on that paint that keeps the GoPro from properly sticking.
Before car prices went entirely bonkers, I was considering getting a used 2019 or 2020 Fusion Titanium Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid, mostly because I wanted heated and vented seats along with decent gas mileage. I have to say, the interiors of those Fusions looked more upscale than this, although I actually like the wood trim. I'm not a fan of giant rims, but the wheels look surprisingly small for the top-of-the-line trim level. It's altogether kind of "meh" and would be fine at $30,000, but what they're asking for it is a bit much.
Funny that people comment on this paint. Not to defend Ford (or any other manufacturer) but it's par for the course these days. I've seen it on $80K cars. Modern waterborne paint conforms to emission restrictions. Even expensive vehicles has some orange peel these days. Here's an excellent resource- newoldcars.com/orange-peel-why-your-new-car-paint-may-look-so-bad/
@@DrivenCarReviews Oh, this paint is definitely not terrible. I think more than anything, some of the shots just caught the light at the right angle to highlight it. Owners can always get it ceramic-coated for the polished mirror finish if they want.
Was the orange peel an option?
Funny that people comment on this paint. Not to defend Ford (or any other manufacturer) but it's par for the course these days. I've seen it on $80K cars. Modern waterborne paint conforms to emission restrictions. Even expensive vehicles have some orange peel these days. Here's an excellent resource- newoldcars.com/orange-peel-why-your-new-car-paint-may-look-so-bad/
looks like the ford kuga for europe me thinks ha ha
Escape Plug-in qualifies for $6843 in Federal Tax credits.
Question: another reviewer complained the gasoline engine would kick on even in “EV only” mode. Did you experience that, particularly since it’s winter?
Yes it does do that but only really when the batteries are cold or you have less than 3 miles on the electric range. It will also kick in if you push the accelerator past like 1/2. In my experience its a great car and you can definitely drive it ev only for at least 25 miles.
Wow an early review of the new Aston Martin DBX 707!
Maybe a DBX .707
I like the design of the new Escape (I'm a guy). The angry car design language is everywhere so it's refreshing to see a more 'feminine' looking car.
The omitting of 2nd row heated seats and AWD will dissuade Canadians
There's always the chance our neighbors to the north get bun warmer in back. I could look it up but- hey Canadiens, want to chime in here?
I like the design too. I think it's very Porsche inspired and attractive and a nice change of pace from all the "aggressive" front ends.
NOT a titanium level interior.
90's design. Wow. Moving backwards
Hybrids are for people who want to go electric but are afraid of the unknown.
Hybrids are like training wheels for new EV owners.
After they own & learn how to live with a hybrid, their next car will be a BEV. maybe.
!
Sometimes. A RAV4 Prime owner I know lives in the city but needs to travel to his parents house a couple times a month. There's no charge infrastructure in the rural area so the PHEV is perfect for his needs.
I miss teh X-Max.
2014 X-Max is going great. 39MPGE. what the hell is this for. lol
What do you do with all the toilet paper!?
Chevy Volt was not wildly successful because it had wrong concept, borrowing it from gas-electric locomotive. Escape borrows its concept from Prius, which is much better.
I'm sure that weighed heavy in the minds of the average buyer.
So that's who bought all the toilet paper
Cadillac absolutely wasted their finest effort in the history of the brand on the styling of the ELR. It is the best looking (Art and Science) car that they have ever produced and it was so short lived it is a shame. I thought they might try to save it by swapping in a gas engine, but no. That LOOK with a twin turbo 3.0 V6. OH YEAH.
Edit: Hey, they could have called it the V-LR.
The problem with the ELR was it was basically a carbon copy of the Volt powertrain. They should have beefed up the battery, motor and engine to make it a (plug-in) hybrid sports car. Especially since it was coming out at the same time as famous PHEV supercars like the 918 Sypder and LaFerrari, when people might have been responsive to buying a hybrid sports car. Neat design, but they had bad optics about the price and specs.
@@0hypnotoad0 Yes, they had the Volt. They should have built a gas powered coupe for Cadillac, maybe with EV assist. I think they were trying to get Cadillac buyers to cough up big money to pay for the losses on the Volt.
The front drive architecture would not have liked that. But yeah, it's a very pretty car. Brought mine in for service today and it drew a crowd.
Actually, it was changed a bit and tuned for more power. The 2016 model even more. I know WAY too much about that car. A lot of people that wrote about it got quite a bit wrong. But overpricing a 2-door coupe in a market that wants SUVs and then neglecting to tell people about it is a disaster waiting to happen.
@@DrivenCarReviews Yes, I remember that they bumped up the power and lowered the price but by that time it was too late. You got yours for a song. Good for you. Beautiful car.
Thanks, Tom! feel Ford could have done better. Having the gas engine come on under hard acceleration is very disappointing. Also, it should have an optional rear electric motor for AWD. I suspect the Mach E team did not work on this vehicle. FYI, having a gas engine does NOT alleviate range anxiety - my wife proves this regularly when she runs the tank down to 1 or 0 miles left as her car coasts into the gas station. AAA discontinued it emergency charging program because nobody needed it.
A lot of PHEVs have that gas assist dynamic in regular mode. And it can be forced into pure EV so that doesn't happen.
So many off-road enthusiast in the comments lol.
Aston dbx’s cousin
I’ll take the Rav4 Prime anyday over an Escape. You can still get the tax credit for a few months with it, and it’s AWD!
Wouldn’t we all. I bet there is or will be a $3-5k price difference which equalises it.
And where would you find a RAV4 Prime? Try to find one, and if you can, expect a $10K over MSRP markup.
@@mowcowbell I live in a city with over a million people and prices are leveling out @ dealerships now, why I mentioned the tax credit
Great review ugly vehicle. Third!
The overall impression is underwhelming.
I am so sick of looking at SUVs. When will this trend come to an end?
Ford Escapes are terrible. I have one. They built Escapes from 2013 - 2019 with all 4 doors hitting chipping paint. I told them about the problem in Sept 2012 and they never fixed the manufacturing blunder. They simply do not care about quality then because they do not address problems. It was a simple fix to update CAD system install of doors moving rear doors rearward by a few millimetres during install.
Orange peel paint job is a disgrace in any new car but inexcusable in a car costing over $40K.
Modern paint that meets emission requirements is like this quite a bit. Even on cars twice the price.
Hybrids in 2022 seem kind of late. I wouldn't buy a new one.
Would never buy Ford. They are not concerned about quality.
One of the ugliest vehicles on the market. Terribly done Ford.
It’s just so ugly! And it’s so dated already.
If Ford has decided to replace their sedans with these crossovers, then they need to do a whole helluva lot better than this half-hearted effort. Exterior styling is sad, and interior quality and features seem lacking. ESPECIALLY at this price. I mean, this is ridiculous.
Ah gross what the hell is that thing it looks so blah
Not available with all wheel drive, totally dysfunctional for states that have snow.
Ford blunder, again.
Snow tires are always the answer.
You do realize that in all those states that have snow most ambulances, semi trucks, and busses are not AWD right?
People get along fine without AWD as long as they are on improved roads with less than a foot of snow and proper tires. .
@@gondorian1006 Living in snow country you know the majority of all modern ambulances, fire trucks, manciples, business, other government vehicles etc. have AWD and 4x4 from Ford, Ram, Freightliner, Spartan, International, PACCAR, etc right?
AWD & 4x4 are now commonly standard. Not doing so in snow country significantly limits market share. We just had a major snow storm and those with front wheel drive and rear, even with chains. got stranded.
@@DrivenCarReviews Tires are critical but as we just had a major snow storm those with only front wheel drive or rear wheel drive, regardless of tires, without 4x4 or a good AWD system got stuck. Even chains on front wheel drive or real wheel drive vehicles got stuck on our hills. We are in Colorado Springs, Colorado and live on Cheyenne Mountain about 7000ft above sea level.
@@DrivenCarReviews My Lexus RX450h AWD 3 motor hybrid has awesome fuel economy and the rear electric motor provides extra regenerative braking to charge the battery and kicks in a nano second when needed for extra traction and/or acceleration. The AWD system is better than our 2021 Toyota 4Runner 4x4 Limited.