Sometimes, the less expensive option is better.
Yes, the 2020 Ford Escape Titanium is clearly the nicest version in the range, but do you really need all that kit for all that money? In this video, Tommy and Roman take a look at the more inexpensively priced Escape SE, part of the revised lineup. From the base S trim, buyers will be able to buy the 2020 Ford Escape in SE, SEL and Titanium trims. The S model starts at $24,885 before destination fees. Sitting at the top of the range, the Titanium will set you back at least $33,400 before options and accessories.
Of course, two hybrid variants are also making their way to the revised Escape lineup. The 2020 Ford Escape Hybrid uses a 2.5-liter Atkinson cycle four-cylinder engine in tandem with an 88 kW electric motor. From next year, you’ll be able to buy the hybrid model in both standard and plug-in variants. The plug-in hybrid should be able to manage over 30 miles of all-electric range, according to Ford.
Ford recently released official, updated power figures for the new Escape as well. That includes the 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter EcoBoost engines, as well as the hybrid. The smaller engine standard on S, SE and SEL models manages 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. That’s up slightly from the figures we had in previous quotes. The 2.0-liter’s horsepower figure remains the same at 275, but its certified torque figure now stands at 280 lb-ft. The 2.0-liter engine is optional on SEL and Titanium models.
The SE Sport Hybrid and Titanium get the hybrid powertrain as standard, though the 2.0-liter is optional on the Titanium. Combined power output for the hybrid is 200 horsepower, while the engine produces 152 lb-ft of torque on its own.
Why choose the SE?
Now, if you do have the money it takes to get into a Titanium, it may be a no-brainer over the more spartan SE. However, the new model actually brings a fair amount of tech to the table, even on a lower trim. The SE model does come with Ford’s SYNC 3 system coupled to an 8.0-inch touchscreen display. The company’s newer Co-Pilot 360 system also comes standard across the 2020 Ford Escape range. That includes systems like lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.
Materials do suffer a bit compared to the Titanium, but overall the 2020 Ford Escape SE is a reasonable place to be for a few years of ownership. Whichever Escape you buy, they are heading to Ford dealerships at the end of September 2019.
