The Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) combines eco-friendly performance with a host of comfort features designed to enhance the driving experience. As consumers increasingly seek vehicles that offer both efficiency and luxury, the Escape PHEV stands out in the compact SUV market. This article explores the top comfort features that make the Ford Escape PHEV a compelling choice for drivers who refuse to compromise on comfort or environmental consciousness.

Dual-Zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control

One of the standout comfort features in the Ford Escape PHEV is its Dual-Zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control system. This sophisticated climate control allows the driver and front passenger to set their preferred temperatures independently, ensuring personalized comfort for both occupants.

The system uses advanced sensors to maintain the desired temperature consistently, adjusting fan speed and air distribution automatically. This feature is particularly beneficial during long drives or when passengers have different temperature preferences, contributing significantly to overall ride comfort.

10-Way Power-Adjustable Driver’s Seat with Memory Function

The Escape PHEV has a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with a memory function. This feature allows drivers to fine-tune their seating position for optimal comfort and visibility. The power adjustments include:

• Forward/backward movement
• Seat height adjustment
• Seatback angle
• Lumbar support
• Thigh support

The memory function is especially convenient for households with multiple drivers, as it stores preferred settings for up to three drivers. With the push of a button, the seat automatically adjusts to the saved position, ensuring a personalized and comfortable driving experience every time.

Heated and Ventilated Front Seats

The Ford Escape PHEV offers heated and ventilated front seats to enhance comfort in various weather conditions. The heating function provides warmth during colder months, with multiple temperature settings to suit individual preferences. This feature adds comfort and helps reduce the need for excessive cabin heating, potentially improving the vehicle’s electric range in cold weather.

On the other hand, the ventilation function circulates air through perforations in the seat, helping keep occupants cool and dry during hot weather or long drives. This feature is particularly appreciated in warmer climates or during summer, as it can significantly enhance passenger comfort without relying heavily on air conditioning.

Panoramic Vista Roof®

The available Panoramic Vista Roof® is a standout feature that significantly enhances the interior ambiance of the Escape PHEV. This large, dual-panel moonroof extends over both rows of seats, flooding the cabin with natural light and creating a sense of openness.

The front panel can be opened for fresh air, while a power sunshade can be deployed to control light and heat. This feature not only improves the aesthetic appeal of the interior but also contributes to a more pleasant and airy driving experience, especially on scenic routes or during clear night drives.

Active Noise Control

The Ford Escape PHEV incorporates Active Noise Control technology to ensure a serene cabin environment. This system uses strategically placed microphones to detect unwanted noise frequencies in the cabin. It then generates sound waves through the vehicle’s audio system to cancel out these intrusive noises.

The result is a noticeably quieter interior, particularly beneficial when operating in electric mode. This feature enhances the overall driving experience by reducing road and wind noise, allowing for easier conversation, better enjoyment of the audio system, and reduced driver fatigue on long journeys.

Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control

The Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control system in the Escape PHEV takes the stress out of highway driving and stop-and-go traffic. This advanced feature maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting to traffic conditions. If necessary, it can bring the vehicle to a complete stop and resume motion when traffic moves again.

What sets this system apart is its intelligence – it can learn and adapt to your driving style over time. Additionally, it integrates with the navigation system to anticipate curves and adjust speed accordingly, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride, especially on long trips.

Wireless Charging Pad

In today’s connected world, keeping devices charged is crucial. The Ford Escape PHEV addresses this need with a conveniently located wireless charging pad. Compatible with Qi-enabled devices, this feature allows drivers and passengers to charge their smartphones without the clutter of cables.

The charging pad is in the center console for easy access. This thoughtful addition enhances the vehicle’s tech-friendly appeal and contributes to a tidier, more organized interior – a small but significant comfort feature for modern drivers.

B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen

The available B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen is a standout comfort feature for audiophiles and music enthusiasts. This premium audio system is specifically tuned for the Escape PHEV cabin acoustics, providing an immersive and high-quality sound experience.

The system includes multiple strategically placed speakers and a subwoofer, delivering crisp highs, rich mids, and deep bass. Whether listening to music, podcasts, or taking hands-free calls, this sound system enhances the overall in-car experience, turning every drive into an auditory pleasure.

Hands-Free, Foot-Activated Liftgate

While not directly related to in-cabin comfort, the hands-free, foot-activated liftgate significantly enhances the convenience of using the Escape PHEV. This feature allows you to open the rear liftgate by simply waving your foot under the rear bumper, provided you have the key fob on your person.

This feature is handy when your hands are full of groceries, luggage, or other items. By eliminating the need to fumble for keys or struggle with armfuls of goods, this feature adds a layer of comfort to the overall ownership experience of the Escape PHEV.

Rotary Gear Shift Dial

The Ford Escape PHEV features a rotary gear shift dial instead of a traditional gear lever. This modern design choice gives the interior a sleek, uncluttered look and improves ergonomics and ease of use.

The dial is intuitive to operate and takes up less space than a conventional shifter, allowing for a more open and comfortable center console area. This design also facilitates smoother transitions between drive modes, contributing to the overall refined feel of the vehicle’s operation.

Configurable Digital Instrument Cluster

The Escape PHEV boasts a fully configurable 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. This high-resolution display can be customized to show a variety of information based on driver preference, including:

• Traditional speedometer and tachometer
• Navigation directions
• Energy flow in the hybrid system
• Driver-assist feature status
• Trip computer data

The ability to tailor this display enhances the driving experience by providing relevant information at a glance and allows drivers to create a personalized and comfortable cockpit environment.

SYNC® 4 Infotainment System

At the heart of the Escape PHEV technology offerings is the SYNC® 4 infotainment system, displayed on a large 13.2-inch touchscreen. This system offers a host of comfort-enhancing features:

• Intuitive interface with smartphone-like operation
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
• Natural voice recognition for hands-free control
• Over-the-air updates to keep the system current
• Connected built-in navigation with real-time traffic updates

The large, responsive touchscreen and voice control capabilities mean less distraction and more comfort for the driver, while passengers can easily access entertainment and information features.

Second-Row Sliding Seats

Comfort isn’t limited to the front seats in the Escape PHEV. The second row features sliding seats that you can adjust to maximize either legroom or cargo space. This flexibility allows rear passengers to find their ideal seating position, enhancing comfort on long journeys.

The sliding functionality also makes it easier to install child seats or create additional cargo space when needed, adding to the vehicle’s versatility and family-friendly appeal.

Ambient Lighting

To create a pleasant and personalized interior atmosphere, the Escape PHEV offers customizable ambient lighting. This subtle lighting can be adjusted to various colours, allowing drivers to set the mood that best suits their preference or matches the vehicle’s interior design.

Beyond aesthetics, this feature also serves a practical purpose by gently illuminating key cabin areas at night, enhancing visibility and comfort for all occupants.

EV Coach

While not a traditional comfort feature, the EV Coach in the Escape PHEV contributes significantly to a stress-free and efficient driving experience. This system provides real-time feedback on driving style and energy usage, helping drivers maximize their electric range and overall efficiency.

The EV Coach offers:

• Tips on optimal acceleration and braking
• Suggestions for the most efficient use of regenerative braking
• Information on when the gasoline engine is likely to engage

By helping drivers get the most out of their PHEV system, the EV Coach reduces range anxiety and promotes a more relaxed and confident driving experience.

2024 Ford Escape: Comfort In Mind For Every Passenger

The Ford Escape PHEV stands out in the compact SUV market for its efficient hybrid powertrain and its impressive array of comfort features. From advanced climate control and seating options to cutting-edge technology and thoughtful design elements, every aspect of the vehicle has driver and passenger comfort in mind.

These features work in harmony to create a driving experience that is both environmentally conscious, luxurious and enjoyable. Whether navigating city streets or embarking on long highway journeys, the Escape PHEV offers a level of comfort and sophistication that belies its compact SUV classification.

As the automotive industry continues to evolve towards more sustainable solutions, vehicles like the Ford Escape PHEV demonstrate that eco-friendly transportation doesn’t have to come at the cost of comfort and convenience. It represents a thoughtful balance between efficiency, technology, and luxury, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a comfortable, feature-rich, and environmentally responsible vehicle.