Ford will unveil the 2020 Escape crossover at the New York Auto Show. The 2005 Escape was the first hybrid SUV in the world and now Ford plans to come back with a 2020 model that includes both a plug-in hybrid and standard hybrid-electric option. Both front-wheel and all-wheel drive will be available on every model.
The 2020 Escape will have five trim levels, starting with the S, then SE, SE Sport, SEL, and Titanium. The Escape will be built at Ford’s Louisville Assembly Plant in Kentucky.
Ford says that the SE Sport and Titanium models of the 2020 Escape will come as hybrids by default, with 198 horsepower and speeds of up to 85 mph in all-electric mode. The PHEV drivetrain will be available on every Escape trim level and have about 30 miles of all-electric range.
Hybrid models of the 2020 Ford Escape feature four EV modes that allow customers to select the settings most suitable for their individual needs:
- In Auto EV mode, the vehicle decides whether to run on gas or electric power.
- In EV Now mode, drivers can operate on all-electric driving.
- In EV Later mode, drivers can switch to full gas-powered driving to conserve electric miles for later.
- In all-new EV Charge mode, drivers can continue to charge the battery while driving and generate electric-only miles to use later.
Aaron is an automotive journalist living in Wyoming, USA. His background includes technology, mechanics, commercial vehicles, and new vehicle evaluations. Aaron is a member of several automotive media groups and writes for many well-known publications.