Leave Low-Efficiency Behind With the Ford Escape

Looking to increase your fuel efficiency? Concerned about fluctuating gas prices? We know the feeling. Luckily, we’ve also got the solution: the Ford Escape. This compact SUV is known for its fuel efficiency, fun driving experience, and premier features, making it a great choice for those looking to lessen their carbon footprint while still wanting to drive something that looks cool, drives well, and can handle a variety of terrain and weather conditions.

If you’re looking for a Ford Escape for sale, come see us at DePaula Ford; we’ve got Escapes in spades, and we can find something that works for you at a reasonable price in no time flat. We want you to drive away in something that makes you happy—and if you’d feel better about driving something with more fuel efficiency, well, that’s a sweet bonus for all of us. We’re happy to help you navigate through the Escape’s various powertrains, and we can answer any questions you might have, so feel free to drop in if the Escape strikes your fancy!

Efficiency Ratings Across the Compact SUV Class

Ford’s Escape is a compact SUV, and its competitors include the likes of the compact crossover Mazda CX-5, the compact SUV Hyundai Tucson, and the compact crossover Toyota RAV4. While the Escape might be a bit bigger than some of its competitors, it retains a best-in-class rating for fuel economy. Interested in a family vehicle that won’t break the bank every time you fuel up? Wanting something roomier than your current vehicle? Then look to the Ford Escape, and be prepared to fall in love.

The Mazda CX-5 has several trim levels that boast an EPA-estimated 24 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway, including the Sport, Carbon Edition, and Touring. However, these must be equipped with front-wheel drive to achieve more than these numbers.

The Hyundai Tucson, meanwhile, is only slightly more efficient, clocking in at an EPA-estimated 25 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway—and, again, that’s only if you choose the front-wheel drive option. It’s nothing to sneeze at, to be sure, but it doesn’t even provide the average fuel economy rating of regular SUVs, which often get a rating of 27 MPG; though, of course, this depends on the brand, year, trim level, and powertrain.

Toyota’s RAV4 has the highest fuel economy rating of Escape’s competitors, producing a stunning 41 MPG in the city and 38 MPG on the highway—if you get a hybrid. Otherwise, you’ll get something like 27 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway, which is still higher than the CX-5 and Tuscon. However, compare it to the Ford Escape, and you’ll see why many drivers have elected to purchase an Escape over one of its competitors.

Ford Escape’s regular powertrain provides 27 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway, though that is front-wheel drive; going with all-wheel drive lowers the fuel economy to 26 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. With the hybrid options, the Escape’s fuel efficiency rises to 42 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway, which is where we get the best-in-class accolades.

Trims on the Escape

The 2023 Ford Escape comes in a variety of trim levels: Base, Active, ST-Line, ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite, Platinum, and PHEV. If you’re looking for something that lends itself to practicality, the Base is the trim level you should ask your dealer about. If you’re more of a sporty type, you may want to look at the Active trim level. If you’d like a few bells and whistles, the ST-Line is your go-to—but if it’s a full-on luxury you’re after, then ask about the Platinum. Wanting more fuel efficiency? The PHEV (the plug-in hybrid) is where you need to go.

There are four powertrains available, with three different engine configurations. The two gasoline-only powertrains are the 1.5L EcoBoost Turbo I-3 and the 2.0L EcoBoost Turbo I-4; both are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and, while the latter gets the better horsepower and torque, the former is better on fuel efficiency. The two hybrid options come with a 2.5L Hybrid I-4, although one is specifically a plug-in, while the other is for models not limited to the plug-in.

Whether you’re looking for a practical daily commuter or a more luxurious ride, Ford’s Escape has a trim level for you. If you opt for the plug-in hybrid, you’ll be able to charge it with any 120V outlet, which is incredibly helpful. Not interested in a hybrid? The 1.5L or 2.0L EcoBoost will still give you better gas mileage at a fraction of the cost. When you visit us at DePaula Ford, let us know which trim and powertrain you’re interested in, and we’ll show you what we have in our inventory.

Which Trim Is Most Efficient?

Consumed by the idea of having the most fuel-efficient Ford Escape possible? You’ve come to the right place! We know you’re interested in saving money and the environment; to that end, we carry plenty of hybrid options so you can choose which works best for you. The highest efficiency rating for a Ford Escape hybrid is 42 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway, which is huge compared to the regular gas-fueled engines of the Escape, which top out at 27 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway.

Depending on the area you live in, the options you have to charge your hybrid vehicle, and how much time you can spend recharging, you may opt to go with a gasoline-fueled option instead of a hybrid—and we won’t judge if that’s what you want. If you’re interested in pursuing a more eco-friendly vehicle, we have just the thing in the Escape hybrid, and we’ll do what it takes to ensure it not only stays healthy but that it gives you the best it’s got.

Other Perks of Fuel Efficiency

We’ve covered which Escape is the most efficient and how that impacts your expenditure, but did you know there are other reasons people end up purchasing a hybrid? There are actually a number of benefits to owning a hybrid, and they don’t all have to do with protecting the environment. Yes, you’d become a better steward to the Hudson River Valley, contributing fewer fuel emissions, helping to create a space with cleaner air, and fostering an environment that doesn’t have to rely on fossil fuel.

Some reasons you may not have considered include the following: fewer maintenance and repair visits, longer battery and engine life, and tax breaks. These tax breaks are applied upon the purchase of your hybrid vehicle. When tax season arrives, your vehicle’s information will be shared with the IRS, and you’ll be able to claim credits—usually affording you a bigger refund.

Because the hybrid switches between electrical power and its engine, both the motor and engine are used less and are therefore able to last longer because neither is used more than the other. This means you’ll get to keep your vehicle for an additional five or ten years before having to think about getting a new one. Likewise, you’re less likely to need repairs since hybrids don’t wear out as fast; as long as you make your regularly prescribed maintenance visits to your mechanic, you’ll be able to enjoy your vehicle for much longer than you would a regular one.

We’re Here to Help You Make the Change

With more and more manufacturers deciding to include hybrid models in their lineups—or completely replace their entire stable of gas-powered engines with hybrids—it’s likely that, within the next few years, more people will be willing to make that jump. We know it can be scary to accept new technology and learn how to drive an alternative vehicle, but we also know it’s due time we collectively produce fewer emissions.

Whether you’ve loved the advent of the hybrids and can’t wait to get your hands on one, or you’re dreading it and need help walking through your options, DePaula Ford is here for you. We’re excited about the future and hope you are, too. Drop by our dealership any time, and we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the Ford Escape, its powertrain options, and its sumptuous fuel efficiency. You’ll love how versatile and budget-friendly your new hybrid will be!