A plug-in hybrid version of the Ford Escape mid-sized SUV has arrived in Australia, marking a milestone as the company’s first electric vehicle down under.

Heading the line-up, the 2022 Escape PHEV offers both the driving range and freedom of an internal combustion engine vehicle alongside the efficiency and refinement of an electric powertrain.

The power-split architecture combines a 2.5L four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle petrol engine, electric motor, and generator with a 14.4kWh lithium-ion battery, for a power output of 167kW and over 50 kilometres of electric driving range.

Four driving modes will be available to choose from, including EV Auto, EV Now, EV Later, and EV Charge.

When the vehicle is in EV Now mode, and the battery reaches its lowest state of charge, the vehicle will automatically revert to EV Auto mode, supplementing the petrol engine power with electric motor assistance.

The battery can be charged using a passenger-side front guard mounted charging port and is automatically replenished through regenerative braking.

In addition to its more advanced drivetrain, the model adds additional items. The ST-Line pack offers front heated seats, LED glare-free headlamps and a heads up display, while the Park Pack offers enhanced active park assistant, front camera and door edge guards.

The Escape comes in three colours including Frozen White, Blazer Blue, and Agate Black, with five additional prestige paint colours available at extra cost.

The 2022 Escape ST-Line PHEV is priced from $53,440 before on-road costs, expected to increase to $54,440 from July 1.

Source: Ford Australia | Ford Escape PHEV now on sale in Australia

30 May 2022