2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime Beats 2022 Ford Escape PHEV in a Plug-in Hybrid Battle!
Until the driving range and charging capabilities of electric vehicles significantly improve, plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEV) vehicles are a good alternative. With a plug-in hybrid, you get the best of both worlds, for it combines the efficiency of a hybrid with the ability to drive with all-electric power for short distances. Two of the top choices for the plug-in hybrid crossover SUV segment are the Toyota RAV4 Prime and Ford Escape PHEV. See how the two models stack up in this 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime vs. 2022 Ford Escape PHEV plug-in hybrid battle. In many ways, the RAV4 Prime beats the Escape PHEV.
2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime vs. 2022 Ford Escape PHEV
For our 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime vs. 2022 Ford Escape PHEV comparison, we evaluate several areas. This includes performance, efficiency, electric driving range, off-road capabilities, towing, safety, passenger and cargo space, interior features and technologies, warranty coverage, and price.
RAV4 Prime vs. Escape PHEV: Performance, efficiency, and electric driving range
On the performance front, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime has the advantage. Its plug-in hybrid system produces a total system output of 308 hp, with a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 5.5 seconds. In comparison, the plug-in hybrid system in the 2022 Ford Escape PHEV generates 221 hp, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.7 seconds.
For efficiency, the RAV4 Prime has an estimated fuel economy of 94 MPGe in electric-only mode and 38 mpg in hybrid mode. In comparison, the Escape PHEV has an estimated fuel efficiency of 105 MPGe in electric-only mode and 40 combined mpg in hybrid mode. The estimated driving range of the RAV4 Prime when using electric-only power is 42 miles, compared to 37 miles for the Escape PHEV.
RAV4 Prime vs. Escape PHEV: Off-road capabilities and towing
If you’re aiming for some off-road adventures, then the RAV4 Prime is the better choice for you. For one, unlike the Escape PHEV, the RAV4 Prime has a traction-enhancing all-wheel drive system. Also, the RAV4 Prime has higher ground clearance than the Escape PHEV (8.3 vs. 7.8 inches). The RAV4 Prime also has the advantage for towing. It provides a maximum towing capacity of 2,500 pounds, compared to 1,500 pounds for the Escape PHEV.
RAV4 Prime vs. Escape PHEV: Safety
Both plug-in hybrid crossover SUVs offer a wide array of safety and driving assistance features. This includes a blind-spot monitor, cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist, lane departure warning, electronic stability control, and brake assist. However, unlike the Escape PHEV, the RAV4 Prime offers auto-leveling headlights and integrated turn signal mirrors.
RAV4 Prime vs. Escape PHEV: Passenger and cargo space
For passenger space, the Escape PHEV has a slight edge. It provides a total passenger volume of 102.2 cu-ft, compared to 98.9 cu-ft for the RAV4 Prime. However, the RAV4 Prime has more space for storage. It provides a maximum cargo capacity of 63.2 cu-ft, compared to 60.8 cu-ft for Escape PHEV.
RAV4 Prime vs. Escape PHEV: Interior features and technologies
Notable interior features and technologies offered for both the RAV4 Prime and Escape PHEV include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, a sunroof/moonroof, power driver’s and passenger’s seats, heated front seats, a navigation system, and a dual-zone climate control system. However, unlike the Escape PHEV, the RAV4 Prime offers a ventilated driver’s seat and heated rear seats.
RAV4 Prime vs. Escape PHEV: Warranty coverage
Both plug-in hybrid crossover SUVs have the backing of a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. However, unlike the Escape PHEV, the RAV4 Prime has a no-cost maintenance and 24/7 roadside assistance plan, with two years and 25,000 miles of coverage.
RAV4 Prime vs. Escape PHEV: Price
Which plug-in hybrid crossover SUV costs more: the 2022 RAV4 Prime or 2022 Escape PHEV? The starting prices of the 2022 RAV4 Prime are $39,800 MSRP for the SE trim and $43,125 MSRP for the XSE trim. In comparison, the starting prices of the 2022 Escape PHEV are $33,540 MSRP for the SE trim, $36,275 MSRP for the SEL trim, and $38,785 MSRP for the Titanium trim.
