Snapshot
- Ford’s first electrified vehicle finally arrives in Australia
- Expands Escape’s line-up to six variants
- Prices start at $53,440 before on-road costs
A plug-in hybrid version of the Ford Escape midsized SUV has finally arrived in Australia, marking a milestone as the company’s first electrified model down-under.
The PHEV variant heads the 2022 Escape line-up, priced from $53,440 before on-road costs. The price will increase to $54,440 before charges from July 1.
The petrol-electric variant – which was initially expected as early as late 2020 – carries a $14,950 premium over the ST-Line FWD turbo petrol model with which it shares its trim grade.
In addition to its more advanced drivetrain, the PHEV adds extra items including an electrically adjustable driver’s seat, fabric and artificial leather upholstery (in place of cloth), a B&O Play audio system, and a rear centre armrest.
A $1950 ST-Line Option Pack adds a head-up display, advanced “glare-free” LED headlights, electric tailgate, and heated front seats. The features are standard on Vignale models.
A $1500 Parking Pack brings semi-auto parking capability, a front camera, and door-edge guards.
The Ford Escape ST-Line PHEV combines a 2.5-litre Atkinson Cycle four-cylinder engine with an electric motor that’s powered by a 14.4kWh battery. A combined output of 167kW is sent to the front wheels via an e-CVT auto.
The pure-electric driving range is 56km according to the WLTP test cycle, with combined fuel consumption rated at 1.5 litres per 100km.
This compares with 8.6L/100km consumption for regular versions of the Escape which are powered by a 183kW/370Nm 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine.
Ford of Europe quotes 9.2 seconds for the PHEV Escape’s 0-100km/h acceleration performance.
According to Ford, recharging the battery takes about six hours using a regular 230-volt power socket, or about two hours using 22kW AC unit.
The PHEV variant has a lower ground clearance than other Escapes – 160mm versus 178mm (ST-Line turbo) and 190mm (Vignale) – and its braked towing capacity is reduced by one-third – 1200kg versus 1800kg.
The Ford Escape PHEV becomes a rival for other midsized plug-in SUVs which includes the MG HS Plus EV, Kia Niro PHEV, Mini Countryman PHEV, Peugeot 3008 GT Sport PHEV, and the soon-to-be-launched Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.
A regular, non-plug-in hybrid version of the Escape which would be a direct rival for the hugely popular petrol-electric Toyota RAV4 is not currently being considered for Australia.
Last year, Ford Australia confirmed the E-Transit van will become its first fully-electric vehicle on sale locally towards the end of 2022. It will be joined in 2024 by the E-Transit Custom, announced this week.
Ford Australia has committed to five electrified vehicles by the end of 2024, leaving two to be confirmed. One is expected to be the Mustang Mach-E electric SUV, which is already available in some overseas markets.
2022 Ford Escape Australian pricing
Prices exclude on-road costs.
Data Table
| Model | Price (exc. on-road costs) |
| Escape | $36,490 |
| ST-Line FWD | $38,490 |
| ST-Line AWD | $41,490 |
| Vignale FWD | $47,090 |
| Vignale AWD | $50,090 |
| ST-Line PHEV | $53,440 |
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Keyword: 2022 Ford Escape pricing and features: Plug-in hybrid arrives in Australia