2020 Ford Escape Hybrid | Watch Out RAV4!

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Note: the 2020 Honda CR-V hybrid was announced 2 weeks after this was filmed.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Noted.

[@nintendoatarikiller]

o o f

[@htnowpro]

Great review, Ford dropped the ball already with the low 30 mile range PHEV. Hopeful the Honda CR V will match the range of the excellent PHEV Clarity

[@Pete856]

Does the Kia Niro not fit this segment of hybrids, or is it too small?

[@tomeisenmenger6475]

@@htnowpro I don't believe the CR-V will be a PHEV. It uses the Accord Hybrid drivetrain.

[@madpear]

Just FYI I was easily getting 55+ MPG over about 60 city miles in my test driving (AWD). Felt a lot roomier and comfier than the RAV4 hybrid also. We went with the Escape for that reason and also the price is much more competitive.

[@lelandp5859]

8 months later how are things?

[@madpear]

@@lelandp5859 I get around 45mpg average, my wife gets 40. Note that I see a few mpg higher in the summer and a few mpg lower in the winter (Minnesota). If I was still in the market, I'd be looking to score a similar deal on one of the plug-in variants. Comes down to personal taste I think, both Escape and RAV4 are great hybrids.

[@zachl6918]

@@madpear Do you mind giving another update on how your Escape hybrid has been? I think the Rav4 hybrid looks more masculine which is better imo but I agree with your comment about how the Escape is MUCH better priced especially when you add that Ford is much more likely to discount a vehicle like an Escape versus Toyota with any vehicle. I live in IA so similar climate to MN so your real world experiences and mpg's would be what I would get so I'm curious of any and all feedback you have to give about it.

[@madpear]

@@zachl6918 ours was driven up from IA. We also test drove RAV4 and CRV hybrids. CRV was a step below both the Ford and the Toyota in features, design, and performance so it was out. Escape vs RAV4 I think you just have to drive both, get a quote on both and make your own call. Wife loves the heated steering wheel and huge sunroof, I like seeing MPG numbers over 45 on trips. We have the backseat always locked in the further back config with 2 car seats and there is still plenty of room in the back. If we were buying now, I'd consider plugin hybrids, but if those weren't on the menu, I'd still take the Escape for the savings and added features.

[@zachl6918]

@@madpear Thanks for the quick feedback!! 45 mpg on an AWD SUV is incredible! I have solar on my house so the plug-in version is intriguing depending on cost and how much EV range it would provide. How bout things you love/hate about it?

[@dankendell8324]

I love your horizontal length charts. Consider adding the previous model of the car being reviewed. "Escape(last gen.)" or similar.

[@nasirgondal9279]

The EPA numbers are released and both Ford Escape and RAV4 hybrids have combined mpg of 40. Very impressive stuff from Ford.

[@SuperFredAZ]

You do a great job of being unbiased and informative. Please review the new CR-V hybrid as soon as possible.

[@CSV1973]

i’m not sure... this car is bland and ugly... the tech, engine, and user features are great... but it’s poorly designed ... the previous gen looked much better.. with so much competition, i’m not sure if you can get away with a bad looking CUV.

[@virgfresco1403]

@@CSV1973I think this new ford Escape looks better than anything on Earth including you

[@abcdef5010]

AZMO Sayaovong I have the 2018 Ford Escape and I have to say I like the new design better. For me it is better proportioned, the old one still looked good, but the front including the grill I thought the new one looked better. The side for me looks better for the new one, the old models look more slanted and where the back is more high up making it look more tilted in which I don’t like very much.

[@enriqueabundez2518]

@@virgfresco1403 that doesn't say a lot about you...especially since you have a couple of dogs as your pfp.

[@Nelliebean6]

Alex, you blew me away with your level of knowledge and detail in this video. I’ve watched a lot of your videos and I really appreciate how much you put into them. Even sales staff don't give this much info. You had me at panoramic sunroof! Seriously though, what a great car! I’ve been waffling between Prius v, Kia Niro, Nissan Kicks, and Ford Escape. I want something bigger than my Nissan Versa Note (for car camping) but with high MPG/EV mix for my daily commute. Your video is exactly what I needed in order to feel more sure about my decision - I can’t see getting anything other than a Ford Escape Hybrid. Now I just need to decide on the trim. As far as design, I agree, I like boxy, but I prefer more mpg. Also, kinda disappointed that the front row glass isn’t the super dark glass (called solar glass?). I also wish the seats were ventilating since I’ll be in AZ. I like the divots in the door side panels, reminds me of a flock of birds or wind blowing. Thanks again! Keep up the good work.

[@MrLESiPhone]

Alex, I am happy to see that you made it a point to comment concerning the planetary "CVT" used by Ford and Toyota versus the "rubber band" CVT's used by other manufacturers. I have owned two Ford Fusion Hybrids with CVTs which I drove about 150K miles.. The planetary units are far superior, from a driving stand point, and very reliable. They were always in the correct "gear" for the situation. I currently drive a 2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited with a 6 speed automatic which is NEVER in the correct gear. It is terribly difficult to drive in high traffic situations. The Ford CVT's were very enjoyable to drive in traffic. The sound of the engine operating in it's optimum torque range takes some getting used to but it is certainly worth it in being fun to drive. I do not like the feel of the "rubber band" CVTs. The one I drove recently in a rental car was horrible. Same problem as the Elantra - always in the wrong "gear". Your point that all CVTs are not equal is very valid.

[@MrLESiPhone]

@guy proulx Ford and Toyota made a deal. Ford got the rights to build the planetary "CVT" and Toyota got the rights to use Ford's Fuel Management systems. That's the jist of it. Not that simple I'm sure.

[@MrLESiPhone]

Several articles posted on the internet.

[@MrLESiPhone]

@guy proulx Just Google "Ford and Toyota Hybrid CVT's. Several should come up.

[@MrLESiPhone]

@guy proulx I just read it in a New York Times article on the subject that came up when I Googled it as I mentioned. You need to read further.

[@MrLESiPhone]

@guy proulx Next you will want me to read it for you!!!!

[@chrisastro300]

Can't wait for the baby bronco version of this one!

[@tousshong9438]

Yeah! and have Mike Tyson do the commercial ad! Haha

[@jeroenjansen2709]

The new shape grew on me.

[@stephenhendricks103]

A word about "blind spot monitoring." Kudos to Ford for including it in their standard suite of safety systems versus brands that make it an extra cost option or limit it to upper trim levels. I live in Washington state but drive fairly frequently in California. For those unfamiliar with the experience California allows "lane splitting" a practice in which motorcycles may legally "share" a lane with automobiles. (Though it's explicitly legal only in California, it's apparently tolerated in 13 other states.) The result is often an unwelcome surprise as a bike shoots past a car inches from the driver or passenger. (There are technically limits to the speed at which a motorcycle can move relative to other traffic but those limits are often ignored.)

[@joa8593]

Just a note, this is illegal. Motorcycles may only do this in heavy traffic.

[@stephenhendricks103]

@@joa8593 Heavy traffic is the only condition in which the issue comes up. As I noted there are restrictions on the speed of passing vehicles in the same lane but in my experience there often ignored and blind spot monitoring is a huge advantage when the issue is someone's life.

[@joa8593]

@@stephenhendricks103 but the BSM will always be triggered in stop and go traffic...it wouldn't help you notice motorcycles in that situation.

[@stephenhendricks103]

@@joa8593 Not if it doesn't exist as it often doesn't on many models. That was my point.

[@joa8593]

@@stephenhendricks103 My point is in stop and go traffic there's usually no difference between having bsm and not because you'll have a false positive every time a car on either side of you moves. I suppose the exception is if you're merging, but the folks at IIHS and AAA say these systems miss small vehicles so often it can't replace a head turn in any meaningful way even then.

[@rockford2523]

I agree with you. They should have made this look like a small Explorer.

[@noname-JS]

Alex knows exactly who is concerned about certain factors and where they live!

[@Tinrs80]

I like the back/rear of the Escape... I agree would be nice if the front was closer to the Explorer. I need to see them on the street more before I decide if the design is good or not.

[@drakeil]

Motorweek got 40.5 MPG in mixed driving with the AWD hybrid. I'd like to see what the plugin can do.

[@robertstutts8315]

If Ford knew what “interior quality” was, they’d have some pretty good damn vehicles.

[@T16-s5o]

The quality of the interior of most Ford's is as good as Volkswagen, which has the best quality interior(not including Mazda)

[@jamess3417]

@@T16-s5o HAHAHAHAHAHAA

[@Hallowsaw]

@@T16-s5o you cannot be serious. Us brand cars have always had terrible interiors compared to japanese and german cars. The american companies can build reliable suvs and trucks but thats about it. Now we all know why they stopped making cars

[@grantdillon1083]

@@Hallowsaw What’s wrong with this particular interior?

[@mattjones3257]

Pretty tired of this argument. I don't see how this interior is any worse than a RAV4, CR-V, or the last gen Rogue. The CX-5 is a little nicer, but it's more expensive too, and its infotainment is worse. The last gen escape was praised for having an interior miles ahead of its competition when it launched in 2013. By the end of its run, everyone was calling it dated. I also think all the furor over hard touch plastics needs to stop. These are mass market vehicles built to a price. If you want a leather door card, go buy a Benz. These materials are more wear resistant, easier to clean, and cheaper. As long as they don't squeak and rattle, I'm good.

[@WanderingAroundAZ]

Just got home from the dealership with my new 2021 Escape Titanium hybrid FWD. Got 41.1 mpg on almost all highway driving. I test drove the RAV4 hybrid and while I did like it, I didn’t like it $4K more than a comparably equipped Escape. I really like the instrument cluster and driving position of the Escape compared to the RAV4. I also appreciate the 5-star crash rating of the Escape compared to the 4-stars for the RAV4. If you are new to hybrids, you will really appreciate the coaching that the Escape offers via the all digital instrument cluster. The Sync 3 infotainment seems much nicer than the ones offered in the RAV4. Ford really hit it out of the park with this one. For virtually no extra cost, skip the turbo models and just get the hybrid. I agree with Consumer Reports that Ford should ditch the 1.5L altogether and simplify the lineup to hybrids and 2.0L turbo 4s.

[@sammyjammy6647]

4 months later how do you feel now? Anything change for you?

[@WanderingAroundAZ]

@@sammyjammy6647 2,031 miles and everything is well

[@sammyjammy6647]

@@WanderingAroundAZ yeah I went with the RAV4 hybrid. Love it 😍

[@cwqrpportable]

Sweet looking! Good job on the design Ford

[@Honeyman76]

I love the size chart that you provided as comparison!

[@Driver6M]

I just bought the RAV4 Hybrid and I'm very happy with it. This Ford Escape Hybrid looks great also and I would have considered it if it came out sooner. Their hybrid systems/transmissions are very very similar if you take a closer look at the mechanical details (except for the AWD system).

[@wyw201]

The hybrid systems are similar because both are sourced from the same Toyota subsidiary (Aisin Seiki)

[@afcgeo882]

@@wyw201 They aren’t sourced from Aisin, and haven’t been for about a decade. Only Ford’s 1st and 2nd gen hybrids were. This is their 4th gen and it’s 100% Ford.

[@afcgeo882]

I also got a Rav4 hybrid (XLE). My reasons are a larger trunk, simpler operation, a much higher ground clearance and better performance. I also know the resale value will be much higher. My 2021 has no fuel tank or battery issues and came with a lithium-ion battery.

[@brianbollan7069]

Alex, Any idea when you're going to come out with an updated review. I've been holding off from buying waiting to see what you have to say after having the escape for a longer period to fully assess said vehicle. Thanks in advance..

[@Teremei]

I think my Dad might get this car. Have you guys seen the orange with pan roof (black top)? Looks so sharp and sporty for a hybrid.

[@Beth9228]

A couple weeks ago that I gotten a 2020 Ford Escape SE in black. I just loved the technology in it and how smooth on driving. I don’t liked the box style of the older ones. I used to have a 2015 Ford Escape SE and it broke down on me a couple weeks ago. I do missed in driving it since it was so comfortable even the newbie,too.

[@PacificBlue51]

The real world MPG's seem to be quite impressive. And the design is growing on me. When you look at the original Escape hybrids and even CMax's that are still used as taxis, you know that Ford can do hybrids. Many are over 400,000 miles and still in use.

[@afcgeo882]

Fact: In real testing (Car & Driver) the Ford’s combined MPGs came out to 30mpg, while the Rav4’s to 32, despite EPA’s ratings being identical (40mpg). The original Escapes, Fusions and C-Max came with a Toyota (Aisin) hybrid drive system. The third gen Ford hybrid systems are in-house.

[@Thomas-qk7wf]

Alex, any chance you're going to have a comparison with the Escape and the RAV4 soon?

[@nighttimestalker]

I really don't get the hate on this design. The interior is nice, and the body design is great.

[@swanblake]

Much better than the Rav4 Hybrid already in my mind. Real awd, faster, better tech, , better braking, ect This would be my pick

[@LuisGonzalez-sb9lx]

Blake Swan now say that without crying. 😅

[@rncondie]

Blake, you must work for Ford. Toyota Prius are going 400,000 plus miles. My wife is getting 44.1 mpg in town with our 2019 Rav 4 hybrid.

[@T16-s5o]

@@rncondie Toyota licensed their hybrid system from Ford Motor Company.

[@dblissmn]

Ford produces a vehicle I find seriously interesting. Hope this isn't a sign of the End Times.

[@sleepingtammy]

Is this model still a great buy in 2023? 2020 Ford Escape Hybrid Titanium FWD - $29,995 With 27k mileage 2.5L I4 hybrid

[@future62]

This looks great. Interestingly this has more legroom than our old MKX. Very curious about the upcoming Corsair hybrid.

[@vincento1067]

All this talk about the RAV4 being more reliable is pure B.S. We have owned 4 Ford Escapes since its introduction. All have easily reached over 125,000, - 145,000 miles with no problem. Yes, I was on top of keeping the vehicles well maintained. I towed a boat and watercraft with all my Escapes also. The Escape is a great vehicle. We will be in the market for another in 2020. I am seriously thinking about doing a Hybrid next time.

[@normt5463]

Our inlaws are on their 2nd Escape lease. They liked it much better than years of Toyotas.

[@kaceylee8465]

Thank you for yet another solid review. When can we anticipate your review of Escape PHEV model? Thanks!

[@donnieward9832]

Looks like you were in my neck of the woods for this one. Hope you enjoyed Louisville and Kentucky in general.

[@bertadelaudebri7179]

This just might be our next vehicle....and, thanks for the indepth review!

[@jeffinkhobar5711]

Just a tip: try pausing after each significant point for just a couple of seconds so the audience can process what you’ve just said before you move on. Without this, the non-stop talk becomes incomprehensible white noise, which is a shame considering the quality of your content. If you’re concerned about fitting everything in, definitely be selective and cut content to assure the important points register.

[@afcgeo882]

You literally have a pause button, just for that. Pause the video, wherever you want, for as long as you want.

[@captured_agent5714]

@@afcgeo882 😂

[@code23hyper44]

I dig the grill

[@thomasshi8863]

bring on the competitions!

[@someguy2135]

I had been considering a Mitsubishi PHEV because it was the only crossover utility vehicle in a PHEV. I am so glad to see some more options coming out. The RAV4 is looking hard to beat, though.

[@harleyjackson5513]

Rav is having problems with fuel tanks.

[@TheRealBrendon]

I’ll be getting a 2020 Escape Titanium with the 2.0 AWD and the Titanium Premium Package

[@pbentsonable]

Need a full updated review on this hybrid. Comparisons too Alex.

[@rays3633]

Any idea when you will bring getting the escape for a week for your comparison tests? I'm interested in seeing how the escape stacks up against the mazda cx5. Also will you be doing a first drive on the Lincoln Corsair as well?

[@kirkkronenberger877]

Excellent, objective review, as always. Thank you

[@rolandmohammed3592]

This is a very informative video. I bought one

[@eulie717]

Do you still like it? Any problems?

[@rightlanehog3151]

Alex, Honda just announced the CRV Hybrid arrives in 2020 so bring on the battle of the Hybrids. To me, Toyota is the only company with a proven, long-term, track record of reliable Hybrids that beat the EPA fuel mileage numbers.

[@pedrocoronel5851]

The Ford and Toyota hybrid system is basically identical, and the older escape hybrids were used as taxis for a long time. Ford has been making hybrid since 2004.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Ford’s first generation hybrids have proved as durable as Toyota’s

[@rightlanehog3151]

@@AAutoBuyersGuide Ford's use of Toyota's Hybrid components was very helpful in that regard. ;)

[@rightlanehog3151]

@@pedrocoronel5851 Ford Hybrids nave not achieved initial EPA mpg estimates in the real world.

[@pedrocoronel5851]

@@rightlanehog3151 If you go off of user reported mpg on fuelly they have been from the 2013 model year onward. The 10-12 fusions are another story, but those were from epa estimates when a lot of other manufacturers were also under heat for not meeting EPA estimates. Really Ford seems to be heavily invested in Hybrid/Electric vehicles and I'm excited for the future since it seems they are going to implement it into more of their line up.

[@TheAprizzle92]

Why do people make fun of hybrids? I don't get it. If a war with Iran kicks off soon, the price can skyrocket to over $200 a barrel possibly more.

[@Thegonagle]

Because of the Prius (and their annoying drivers). It doesn't matter that the hybrid option in normal cars is invariably faster and more powerful than the base engine (and it just happens to get better fuel economy). It's because early on, the word hybrid became synonymous with Prius. The Prius, unlike most cars, was built for only one thing, and it wasn't to be fast or powerful or fun to drive. It was built to be driven slowly and use as little fuel as physics allow; therefore they think all hybrids are built for the same thing. Fortunately, enough of us know better that they keep making more hybrids than the horrible slug that is the Toyota Prius.

[@TheAprizzle92]

@@Thegonagle That's true, plus the Prius is now recognised as an Uber car. I think people will reconsider the hatred towards hybrids as they realise the amount of money they'll save in the long run.

[@code23hyper44]

Because Prius drivers going 55 in the left lane on a 65mph highway and never moving over.

[@eskieman3948]

Not a chance.

[@LeoTheShortGuy]

I will walk first.

[@lynchware]

Very good information thank you Alex

[@amosjsoma]

No spare tire is always a dealer breaker for me. I've changed too many flats out on the road to go without a spare.

[@rightlanehog3151]

#SaveSpareTires

[@webcomment8895]

He said there is room for you to put in a spare tire. Just ask the dealer to put one in or buy one aftermarket.

[@T16-s5o]

Then you weren't interested in the first place.TF.

[@kaiair]

Alex can you also use a cart or stand golf bag in the trunk to see whether all the vehicles you tests can fix in width configuration or not. Thx

[@MrJOHN082850]

the rav4 prime is also water cooled..the prius prime is the one thats air cooled!

[@kentuckygreg4725]

Glad to see you in Louisville. Used to work in one of the buildings behind you. Also used to live in Crestwood where you took your test drive. Keep up all your excellent reviews,

[@mjhowson2389]

I think Ford did a great job on the exterior design. Given they’ve abandoned sedans, making the Escape lower/wider was a smart move. Especially with the upcoming baby Bronco. I’m less a fan of the interior. I like the design, but the plastics and leather appear cheaply grained. I also don’t know what to make of the dimpled doors. I’ll reserve judgement until I see it up close.

[@austing4321]

They should've made the doors leather on the top trim. The dimples look like bad cost cutting.

[@anderacpharmd]

Was an Escape HEV vs RAV4 HEV video ever filmed? I can't find one.

[@deanlang6054]

All new everything. It should only take about 5 years for Ford to get things worked out; just in time for the next generation.

[@Ashquacks]

I have a very hard time believing it's actually all new everything. Both turbo engines are carry overs from the 3rd gen, just paired to a new transmission. The 2.5L engine used in the hybrid also seems to still be the same that ford has been using in the escape hybrid since 2009, which in itself was just an updated version of the 2.3L MZR they've been using since 2005. It's not even direct injection and only has VVT on the intake cam, further hinting at its age. Granted it works well (I have an older escape hybrid nearing 500k miles and still going) and if it ain't broke don't fix it, but calling it all new everything is something I wouldn't be doing if I was ford.

[@Lucky8s]

@@Ashquacks The 1.5L 3 cylinder is a "new" engine from Ford (I'm told it's been used in the Fiesta ST in Europe).

[@dickthompson8018]

Dennis Xu n

[@rizzlerazzleuno4733]

Smart buyers might wait until the 2021 model and then read long term reviews. The more hybrid CUV/SUV the better and the hybrid CR-V should be worth comparing before any one jumps on this Ford. Of course there are folks who don't care about mpg and will be happy with the "normal" engines. For folks that do mostly city-type driving a hybrid or PHEV seem the better choice....why burn more fuel than is necessary to get from A to B? Good quick review Alex. 👍

[@nw1018]

Where is the escape phev review?

[@LuisGonzalez-sb9lx]

Alex: “Watch out Rav4” Rav4: **oversells every SUV in the planet**

[@Hallowsaw]

Shockingly i have not seen many of the new gen rav 4 and hardly any of the new corollas. I guess i am in an area where houshold income is like 120k so that could be why

[@daveincanada785]

Much, much better looking than the RAV4. Nice to see this looks more like a CX5 and not a chunky box on wheels.

[@adithyaramachandran7427]

This hybrid will probably be more efficient than the RAV4 and CRV because of aerodynamics. This is very much car like, and doesn't look like an SUV. Expect mileage like the Fusion Hybrid. Just like the Cruze vs Jetta, EPA MPG was the same but I can get significantly better real world MPG in a Cruze thanks to the better Aero. I get 38.5 combined driving a mix of city and highway, but had a hard time crossing 35 in the Jetta.

[@T16-s5o]

Liar Jetta is better

[@OfficialRDPodcasts]

I get 47 in the Rav4.

[@rosepaul9681]

I love my Ford Fusion hybrid for its aerodynamic look and mpg: 49 mixed driving.

[@ShersGarage]

eCVT system in this Escape is very similar to one in RAV4. Until this new gen it was made by Toyota supplier Aisin. Perhaps RAV4 changed that in this new hybrid, Toyota couldn't go above 40 mph in electric only mode, Ford can. Toyota and Ford cross patent their hybrid tech, so you can enjoy very robust hybrid tech from both manufacturers. Though Toyota seems to use their 2.0 I4 where Ford opted for 2.5 I4.

[@afcgeo882]

I know this is an old comment, but you’re completely uninformed on the topic, it seems. 1. The last (3rd) generation Escape did not come with a hybrid engine. Only the first and second generations did. 2. The 1st and 2nd generation of Ford’s hybrid drivetrains were co-developed by Ford and Aisin and the Power Split System was actually sourced from Aisin. They were used on the Prius, Escape/Mariner, and Fusion/Milan. The latter paired used the 2nd gen hybrid drivetrain. 3. The 3rd generation Ford hybrid system was 100% Ford, though it is similar to Toyota’s in how it works. Nothing there is sourced from Toyota/Aisin anymore (Fusion, C-Max). 4. The Rav4 hybrid system works at speeds up to about 70mph, in front and rear. 5. Toyota has a 2.0 engine on FWD Rav4s in Europe and Asia/Australia and the 2.5 engine in AWD versions. North America only gets the 2.5 AWD variant. 6. Ford’s combined engine output (2.5 + hybrid motor) is about 18hp lower than Rav4s (2.5 + hybrid).

[@bsperoz]

Damn. I looked at Explorer too...But bought Rav4 Hybrid. I LIKE the braking in the Rav4 Hybrid though. I just wished it had ANDROID AUTO but I know Toyota is in the process of FINALLY installing that and supposedly will have a firmware update so my Rav4 can do it too!

[@brianusa394]

Forget about android upgrade a dealer told me the deal between Toyota and google doesn’t allow for it to happen

[@danebraun1714]

@@brianusa394 That's a lie because we get it in Australia for free

[@rggimpninja8924]

And I have it in my 2020 rav

[@christopherwarsh]

Did you ever get installed? It’s been almost a year...

[@admin-ts8uv]

love it! looks great!

[@eltoro13]

Almost 43mpg in awd sounds really good. Curious if the will be a big difference on the fwd like there is on the explorer awd vs rwd

[@afcgeo882]

Too bad it doesn’t meet the EPA estimates in real driving. Few do. Close, but not quite, much like Honda.

[@mz4420]

Can anyone speak to reliability and long time ownership cost?

[@aceking894]

Toyota has a 10 years warranty in the hybrid battery, 8 years in hybrid system. How about Ford?

[@rkalla]

8 years / 100k miles

[@inikkor520]

Ford copied the synergy Toyota system

[@markknudsen1755]

How would you compare, or thoughts, of the Subaru Crosstrek PHEV?

[@edlawrence6553]

Mark Knudsen a friend of mine bought the Subaru and she loves it.

[@nman2563]

It looks much smaller on the road. Thought they had downsized it and made it a tall hatchback like the Crosstrek.

[@yotuyu1]

I actually get 42mph on 1.5T awd 2020 escape se, eco mode and drive 65mph on highway, and I do use cruise control alot. I've tested for like a month and 42mpg no problem

[@Onthercks07]

That battery in the trunk looks so poorly engineered. What happens if the battery leaks some acid? It's almost like they forgot to place it somewhere. I look forward to seeing if Ford can pull off this launch without any quality problems or recalls

[@chloesamclutch]

I know of several builds that relocated the battery to the trunk. Perfectly fine.

[@benmartinez6733]

Hyundai, Kia, and Toyota hybrids cars puts there battery in the trunk . They being doing it for a while.

[@sabrimo4020]

Maybe yes and maybe no. But the big issue is Ford reliability. I don't trust Ford reliability.

[@emofreako]

Many many cars have the 12v battery in the trunk.

[@ltyr-mr2if]

@@sabrimo4020 That's wise on your part!!! I know, as a burned Ford owner.

[@sabrimo4020]

Nice car but I don't trust ford reliability. So if I have to choose between Rav4 and Escape I would probably choose Rav4.

[@Daniel-tv9tb]

100%

[@gondorian1006]

Ford has a very reliable hybrid drivetrain. It's very similar to the Toyota system

[@waltchan]

Actually, I think Ford's 2.5L is more durable than Toyota due to it's heavier curb-weight, heavy-duty construction, and more durable steel.

[@Daniel-tv9tb]

@@waltchan idk... Coworker Ford edge transmission died at 140k. Sample of one but if you look in the road compare old RAV4s vs ford crossover SUVs. You will see a lot more high mileage Toyotas.

[@waltchan]

@@Daniel-tv9tb Ford Edge is not one of Ford's more-reliable products. Your coworker should have bought Escape S or Fusion S instead. Check out my forum thread: www.city-data.com/forum/ford-lincoln/3077327-why-i-think-ford-fusion-s.html

[@kolt9051]

I wanted to get a hybrid in the next couple of years, so maybe I'll lease this.

[@mlosuno402]

Anyone else spot the Evoque Convertible at 16:24?

[@Ahmad-yw5hl]

MLosUno yup and that was my first time to see it

[@diggleda2952]

Having the AWD version shouldn’t affect the fuel economy much because Ford uses a smart AWD where only the front two wheels are used but when there are slippery conditions, requires more traction or when accelerating all four wheels kick in.

[@afcgeo882]

And that does, usually, drop the fuel economy by 2mpg or so.

[@genius-no5sl]

This is gonna be a great vehicle

[@minivanman1356]

This is great but we have a 2015 Titanium with the 2.0 turbo and couldn’t imagine life without it so we would get that engine again and would love the new 8 speed the 6 is great but 8 would be appreciated

[@LeoTheShortGuy]

That is a strange place for a 12 volt battery. Seems challenging to get a jump start if hybrids get jumped. Do like the pano though.

[@WanderingAroundAZ]

There are jump points under the hood. But, with any hybrid you need to read the owners manual for specific instructions on how to jump start them or if you can/should jump start another non-hybrid vehicle with them.

[@jeffruebens8355]

For smaller vehicles, there is the Kia Niro hybrid to test drive. If driving it more than 120,000 miles, the Hyundais and Kias have a lifetime warranty for the hybrid battery, also for the Ioniq.

[@Skihist2]

If the battery is liquid cooled does that mean it’s heated in a cold winter?

[@afcgeo882]

The batteries are all electrically heated by an internal unit. The liquid cooling system is connected to the AC compressor. It has no connections to the engine coolant system.

[@igeekone]

I'm really leaning on the Escape over the Rav4. The mechanical AWD is superior, liquid cooled battery means better efficiency and reliability, and Ford gives out better deals at the dealer.

[@billmarshall2536]

Can't blame you on that. I have an '17 Edge, and I haven't any issues with it yet (32.5K miles on it) other than needing a new battery recently (replaced under warranty), but my fiancee had an Escape and had nothing but issues with it. A real money pit. She won't even consider another Ford because of it. I've had several Toyota's in the past, before I went with the Edge (would have gone Toyota, but they don't have a competing vehicle this size) and never had any issues with any of them.

[@ltyr-mr2if]

You will regret it, I fear. I sure did!

[@fernandovargas7562]

Good video .... I am looking for a SUV hybrid..... Escape hybrid is good.

[@jdway8646]

Go with Toyota for a Hybrid. Never trust Ford reliability. Want a truck? Get a Chevy :)

[@Weakest_Bulgarian]

@@jdway8646 Chevy's are are a mechanics best friend. Disposable vehicle

[@idontcare9797]

@@jdway8646 chevys lol go check out the channel zebra corner

[@CRVgarage]

Adaptive cruise control is not standard on the se hybrid trim.

[@jeffarnholt1310]

No AWD in the plug-in is a deal breaker for many of us. It is unfortunate that Ford couldn't use that huge spare tire well to put the battery in the floor of the trunk rather than under the car. Still, this is a better design than the Crosstrek's plug-in battery that massively intrudes upon the trunk space.

[@johncarr123]

Agree Jeff, Our Cmax plugin lease is up next month and I wanted to lease a 4X4 Escape plugin but no! Ford decides not to make the plugin 4X4. I went and leased a Cherokee Trailhawk 4X4 I will miss the crazy gas mileage of the C-Max. I have a Fiat 500e that I use for commuting gets 100 miles of pure EV driving.

[@devinbender8428]

Jeff Arnholt why does everyone want AWD IN A HYBRID?!?!! If your worried about winter driving get Snow tires. (Cheaper than a AWD option that’s typical 1500+) Snow tires make a bigger difference than awd.

[@gondorian1006]

@@johncarr123 the cmax was never awd either.

[@devinbender8428]

T R They did a test. Driving up a snowy hill. Fwd Escape with snow tires Awd Escape with all season The fwd made it much farther

[@ginsure]

Looks nice. However if I were getting one I would get the 2.0 with 250HP. Should be pretty peppy

[@dblissmn]

At 0-60 in 7.5 seconds and 42mpg highway for the hybrid, I don't see why you'd look anywhere else unless you're towing something heavy. (And that's assuming the highest towing package is only available with the 2 liter)

[@afcgeo882]

@@dblissmn Unfortunately, the real world acceleration numbers ended up being the slowest of the segment at 8.7 seconds, with the Honda and Toyota coming in well under 8 seconds. It’s not horrible, but it is very… average. Ford’s power management software simply leans toward fuel economy more. Sadly, it also doesn’t get the EPA estimated fuel economy either, but close.

[@fry5family]

We dolly tow behind our RV. The FWD Escape hybrid is dolly towable. If we install a Superior Driveline rear driveshaft disconnect, could we dolly tow the AWD version? We really want the AWD for scouting out forestry preserve and BLM campsites for our RV. Can you confirm this or direct us to who might know?

[@stefanbololoi7110]

When you’ll do a review for Ford Escape phev? Thanks

[@baldheadlogic]

I am pretty impressed with this redesign. I don't like where the regular 12v battery is located and don't like the plastic HUD.

[@WanderingAroundAZ]

I just turn the HUD off so I don’t have to deal with it.

[@GotToyota]

Hey Alex, any plans on reviewing an Escape PHEV?

[@dgrGR61]

Anyone know why the 2021 Escapes are not at the dealers yet?

[@afcgeo882]

They are. Only PHEVs were delayed.

[@BigdogLarry]

Actually looks like a Mazda cx-5 from the side profile 🤔

[@gl5960]

Great review. If you were to compare the top end versions of ....Toyota rav 4 hybrid, the Honda CR-V hybrid and the Ford Escape hybrid how you rate them regarding power, fuel economy, acceleration, drive quality, awd traction and fuel economy? Thanks.

[@jeffruebens8355]

The Kia Niro is sort of a smaller hybrid crossover, taller than the Hyundai Ioniq.

[@blablabla1185]

Ford has to deal with the battery fire issue found in Kuga (Europe model) in the last year. Hopefully it is completely fixed in the north America models.

[@afcgeo882]

Never had the issue. Which battery, the 12v or the lithium? Update: Just looked it up. It was the Kuga PHEV (plug-in), not the Hybrid that had the battery fires and recall. Apparently they were prone to overheating while plugged in. This was due to a chemical contamination in the batteries from the supplier. Ford ended up delaying the introduction of the Escape and Corsair PHEVs in the United States because of this. They came out much earlier in Europe.

[@johnmerryman1825]

Like the styling. Has hints from the Mazda cx-5 and BMW X3. Interior is very nice too.

[@truantray]

It's generic SUV. But, that's all people buy anymore.

[@JLUOffRoad]

3:23 New active safety feature (Evasive Steeting Assist) lol...

[@IDiggPattyMayonnaise]

It's a extra dumb feature. It's doesn't steer out of an accident automatically, you have to turn out first. It turns on if it doesn't think you turned out enough to avoid an accident. So if you don't turn the wheel first, you crash. It's doesn't care.

[@1g2002541]

Ford Focus XL !!!

[@EchoSigma6]

I’m not sure if I would buy the first production year of any vehicle. Better to wait for a mid cycle refresh about 2-3 years later. The 3 cylinder is interesting though.

[@eskieman3948]

And yet, the Toyota bedwetters in this forum RAVE about the NEW RAV4, which is a tinny, noisy, and recall-plagued piece of junk. Even Consumer Reports calls it "mediocre".

[@EchoSigma6]

Eskie Man I like the RAV4 hybrid but who told you about my bed wetting problem?

[@carrollaasen4297]

Awesome, sounds like a great choice for my next vehicle in tbe spring. Thanks for the review

[@markknudsen1755]

Hey. What about the Toyota Rav4 Prime that was recently announced?

[@nighttimestalker]

I wish they did like Hyundai with the new Tuscon. They used their turbo charged engine and the automatic transmission with theit hybrid system. Would love to see the 2.0 with a hybrid and the 8 speed and not a crummy CVT. It would also allow them to get even more power out of the vehicle while getting superior fuel economy

[@mountainhobo]

Alex, did you try to put a spare tire around that battery? I can't see how it will fit, unless it's a tire by itself, and you're supposed to mount it on the wheel when changing it.

[@SimplyCali619]

Why wouldn't it fit. You do know how a tire looks like right, big ole empty space in the middle behind the steel/alloy face. Edit : Watch TFLNow's video their tester had space saver spare

[@ryankozarich6968]

Alex, why does it sound like you're sending hypnotic messages in this video?

[@alechamid235]

Your videos are the best for vehicle reviews 👌 🙌.

[@johnblackham7924]

When will you full week testing review come out? Drove a Titanium version of the 2020 Hybrid Escape a week ago for a short test drive and it was nice. The sales people weren't up on the Escape Hybrid info so they couldn't answer a lot of my questions. Do you know if any Escape Hybrid models will have heated steering wheels (a very useful feature in cold winter areas) ? I have a 2018 Ford Edge Titanium and I like it's features but it only gets 20 - 21 MPG here in northern Utah which was a disappointment for me. I originally was leaning toward the plug-in Escape Hybrid model they say won't be available here in Utah until Summer 2020 but since it doesn't have AWD I don't think it would be a good choice for northern Utah and I'm wondering how much cheaper it will be to operate than the non-plug-in Hybrid ( I drive about 25 miles a day back and forth to work and I was thinking I might save a lot of money on gas with the plug-in Hybrid if it was able to 30 miles all on electricity but I have to wonder how realistic that is in the real world - northern Utah freeways travel at 70 - 85 MPH except during rush hour.). What has your testing shown of plug-in Hybrids vs. the standard Hybrid models when driving under 50 miles per day? Does a plug-in Hybrid save you a lot more in gasoline?

[@SSB362]

Last week I drove the top of the line Hybrid AWD from one dealership to another one. Everything worked great on this car, in 29 miles mostly freeway at 70 miles an hour the gas mileage for the trip was 44MPG with eight miles in hybrid alone. Yes this car gives you all that info at the end of the drive. So to sum up as of 3/5/2020 I've now drove the Rav4 hybrid this escape hybrid and the new CRV hybrid (yesterday) . My impression, for interior quality the # 1 CRV, 2 Rav4, 3 Escape, For fun to drive #1 Escape, 2 Rav4, 3 CRV, Infotainment # 1 Escape, 2,Rav4 ,3 CRV. Power tie between the Escape and Rav4, last CRV is slow. So far in my trying to buy the top trim in each, Best price by 2G in the CRV, next the escape 2G more than CRV, Rav 4 almost 4G over CRV. Overall I liked the the Escape # 1, Rav #2, CRV #3.