2025 Ford Escape Engines: Detailed Comparison and Buyer Guide
The 2025 Ford Escape is one of the most versatile compact SUVs on the market, offering three distinct engine technologies: traditional gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid. Each powertrain is designed for different lifestyles, whether you’re commuting daily, towing gear, or looking to cut your fuel use with electrification. Let’s dive into the engines available across the Escape lineup and see what each one brings to the table.
1.5L EcoBoost I-3 – Turbocharged Gas Efficiency
Available on: Escape Active, ST-Line
This is Ford’s smallest turbocharged gas engine in the Escape family—a 1.5-liter inline-3 with direct injection and Auto Start-Stop technology. Despite its size, it offers an impressive 180 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque, tuned to deliver smooth, responsive power for city and light highway driving.
Fuel Type: Regular gasoline
Technology: Turbocharged with intercooling, Auto Start-Stop for idle fuel savings
Transmission: 8-speed automatic, well-matched for smooth shifts and efficiency
Drivetrain Options: Front-wheel drive or optional Intelligent AWD
Fuel Economy: Up to 27 city / 34 highway MPG (FWD)
Towing Capacity: 2,000 lbs (when properly equipped)
This engine is ideal for drivers who want a traditional driving experience with the benefits of modern fuel-saving technology. It’s quiet under light throttle, with enough punch for passing on the highway and nimble handling around town.
2.0L EcoBoost I-4 – Sporty Turbo Performance
Available on: ST-Line Select, Platinum
For drivers who want more grunt under the hood, this 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder is a significant step up. With 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, it transforms the Escape into a more athletic and capable SUV.
Fuel Type: Premium recommended for peak performance
Technology: Turbocharged, direct-injection with Auto Start-Stop
Transmission: 8-speed automatic, tuned for performance and refinement
Drivetrain: Always paired with Intelligent AWD for confidence in all conditions
Fuel Economy: 23 city / 31 highway MPG (AWD)
Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs (maximum, Class II Tow Package)
This powertrain is perfect for those who need confident towing, quicker acceleration, or drive in more demanding terrains. The 2.0L EcoBoost is responsive at low revs and delivers strong mid-range power—great for merging or passing on the highway.
2.5L Atkinson-Cycle I-4 Hybrid – Balanced Hybrid Versatility
Available on: ST-Line, ST-Line Select, Platinum (optional)
The hybrid version of the Escape features a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle I-4 engine mated to an electric motor. It uses regenerative braking to recapture energy and stores it in a lithium-ion battery to assist the gas engine. Total system output is 192 horsepower.
Fuel Type: Regular gasoline
Technology: Naturally aspirated engine + permanent magnet AC electric motor
Transmission: eCVT (Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission)
Drivetrain: FWD or optional Intelligent AWD
Fuel Economy: 42 city / 36 highway MPG (FWD); 39 combined MPG (AWD)
Towing Capacity: 1,500 lbs
This hybrid system delivers whisper-quiet operation in electric-only mode, seamless transitions between gas and electric, and outstanding fuel savings. It’s ideal for drivers who want a greener daily commute without the need to plug in.
2.5L Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) – Maximum Efficiency with Electric Capability
Available on: Escape Plug-In Hybrid (exclusive trim)
The plug-in hybrid Escape uses the same 2.5L Atkinson-cycle engine as the standard hybrid but adds a larger high-voltage battery and an external charging port. This setup allows for all-electric driving over short distances and traditional hybrid function for longer trips.
Total System Output: 210 horsepower
Electric-Only Range: Estimated 37–40 miles (varies with conditions)
Charging: Level 1 (120V) or Level 2 (240V); full charge in ~3.5 hours (Level 2)
Fuel Economy: 101 MPGe (combined estimate)
Drivetrain: FWD only
Towing Capacity: 1,500 lbs
This PHEV setup is designed for those who want maximum fuel savings and the ability to drive on electricity for most short trips. You can run errands, commute to work, and never burn a drop of gas if you stay within the EV range.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Ford Escape offers a powertrain for every kind of driver.
If you want a cost-effective, gas-powered daily driver: the 1.5L EcoBoost is your pick.
For more performance and towing: go with the 2.0L EcoBoost.
For the best balance of fuel savings and flexibility: the 2.5L Hybrid.
And for electric-first driving without range anxiety: choose the 2.5L Plug-In Hybrid.
Ford gives Escape buyers real engine variety—no matter your priorities, there’s a version that delivers the performance, efficiency, and capability you need.
