The Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle (PHEV) potentially offers the best of both worlds: the ability to complete the daily commute on zero-emissions battery power, yet still operate as a petrol-electric hybrid for longer journeys.
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When that PHEV is also a family SUV, it’s got the potential to be many things to many people.
That’s where the Ford Escape PHEV comes in. The Escape is the accomplished, powerful and spacious SUV you’d expect from Ford. But the PHEV powertrain adds an extra dimension with 59km of pure-electric range and seamless hybrid operation when required.
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A PHEV contains a complex blend of technologies and the danger can be that it’s complex to operate too. But not the Escape. As long as you remember to plug it in at night, you can simply drive it like any other SUV and never think about the tech that lies beneath.
But if you want to be more involved, you can do that too. The driver can scroll through drive modes that prioritise EV driving, save the battery charge for later or even replenish it with the petrol engine – all with a single button.
The PHEV gives the Escape real scope, making it the decathlete rival to the Toyota RAV4. And watch out for non-plug-in hybrid versions next year.
Runners Up
MG HS PHEV, Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV
FORD ESCAPE ST-LINE X PHEV
ENGINE: 2.5-litre Atkinson Cycle petrol four with 14.4kWh lithium-ion battery and single electric motor
POWER: 167kW (combined)
GEARBOX: Single-speed automatic, FWD
ECONOMY: 1.5l/100km, EV range 59km
PRICE RANGE: $60,990-$66,990