Review: 2023 Ford Escape IV (facelift 2023) 2.5 (210 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid eCVT

The 2023 Ford Escape IV, with its facelift and plug-in hybrid technology, is a modern SUV designed to cater to a variety of needs. Whether you're navigating city streets, embarking on long road trips, or seeking a family-friendly vehicle, the Escape offers a blend of efficiency and practicality. In this review, we'll delve into its features, performance, and how it fits into different lifestyles.

Understanding the Basics: Key Terms Explained

Before we dive into the specifics, let's clarify some essential terms:

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV): A car that combines a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor and a battery that can be recharged by plugging into an external power source.
eCVT: Electronically controlled continuously variable transmission, which provides seamless acceleration without the traditional gear shifts.
Torque: A measure of rotational force, important for understanding a vehicle's ability to accelerate.

Performance and Features

The 2023 Ford Escape IV is powered by a 2.5-liter inline-four engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 210 horsepower. This setup allows for a smooth and efficient drive, especially in urban environments where the electric motor can handle low-speed commutes.

With a kerb weight of 1771 kg (3904 lbs), the Escape maintains a balanced weight-to-power ratio, ensuring responsive handling. The lithium-ion battery, located under the rear seats, provides an all-electric range of approximately 59.5 km (36.97 miles), making it ideal for short trips without using petrol.

The SUV's dimensions, including a length of 4575 mm (180.12 in) and a wheelbase of 2710 mm (106.69 in), offer ample interior space. The trunk space ranges from 974 liters (34.4 cu. ft.) to 1722 liters (60.81 cu. ft.), accommodating both daily errands and larger cargo needs.

Suitability for Different Lifestyles

City Driving: The Escape's compact size and electric range make it perfect for city dwellers. Its front-wheel-drive system and electric steering provide easy maneuverability in tight spaces.

Long-Distance Travel: While the electric range is limited, the petrol engine ensures you can travel long distances without frequent stops. However, the fuel tank capacity of 42 liters (11.1 US gal) might require more frequent refueling on extended trips.

Family Use: With five seats and generous cargo space, the Escape is well-suited for families. Safety features like ABS and a robust suspension system add to its family-friendly appeal.

Single Ownership: For singles, the Escape offers a balance of practicality and style, with enough space for personal belongings and the flexibility of a hybrid powertrain.

Adventure Lifestyles: While not a rugged off-roader, the Escape can handle light adventures with its independent suspension and disc brakes, though its towing capacity is limited to 680 kg (1499 lbs) with brakes.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:
- Efficient hybrid powertrain suitable for city driving.
- Spacious interior and cargo capacity.
- Modern design with a facelift for 2023.
Weaknesses:
- Limited all-electric range for long-distance travel.
- Modest towing capacity.

Conclusion

The 2023 Ford Escape IV Plug-in Hybrid is a versatile SUV that caters to a wide range of needs. Its hybrid technology offers efficiency for city driving, while its spacious interior makes it a practical choice for families. However, those seeking a vehicle for long-distance travel or heavy towing might need to consider its limitations. Think about what features matter most to you. Do you need extra cargo space or a vehicle that's easy to park in urban areas?

Attribute	Details
Generation	Escape IV (facelift 2023)
Modification (Engine)	2.5 (210 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid eCVT
Powertrain Architecture	PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle)
Body Type	SUV
Seats	5
Doors	5
Fuel Type	Petrol / electricity
Kerb Weight	1771 kg (3904 lbs)
Trunk Space (Minimum and Maximum)	974 l (34.4 cu. ft.) - 1722 l (60.81 cu. ft.)
Fuel Tank Capacity	42 l (11.1 US gal)
Length	4575 mm (180.12 in)
Width	1882 mm (74.09 in)
Height	1679 mm (66.1 in)
Wheelbase	2710 mm (106.69 in)
Drive Wheel System	Front wheel drive
Number of Gears (Transmission Type)	Automatic transmission eCVT
Front Suspension	Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar
Rear Suspension	Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer
Front Brakes	Disc
Rear Brakes	Disc
Assisting Systems	ABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Power Steering	Electric Steering
Tire Size	225/60 R18