Ford Hybrid Cars

Ford hybrids have been around in the USA for a while now, with the Escape in particular dating all the way back to the 2008 model year. It’s only recently, however, where Ford has decided to introduce new HEV and PHEV variants of its larger SUVs and trucks, including the Explorer and potentially in future, even the F-150. The Blue Oval brand has recognized the need for greater eco-friendly endeavors within the automotive industry and has subsequently upped the ante in hybridization, all in the best interests of American car buyers.

How do Ford Hybrid Vehicles Work?

To answer this question, we have to ask “What is a hybrid car?” Well, HEVs can come in the form of any classification, from a hatchback to a full-size SUV. It’ll be powered by two distinct sources, a typical internal combustion engine that’s been integrated with an electric motor and battery pack which supplement ignition and overall outputs. These specialty mills are paired with efficiency-minded automatic transmissions all in an effort to optimize fuel economy. There are also PHEVs or plug-ins that work in a similar fashion but usually feature larger, rechargeable batteries that also avail them with short electric-only driving ranges.

Hybridized Ford Models

• C-Max - Now only for sale in used car lots, the subcompact MPV was the automaker’s smallest gas/electric-powered hatchback. Its front wheels were propelled by a 2.0-liter electrified four-pot that afforded owners EPA gas mileage estimates of 42/38/40 miles per gallon city/highway/combined. If you have your eye on the C-Max, check out our CarBuzz video review on YouTube.
• Escape - For the first time since 2012, this compact crossover utility was reintroduced to the American market in a semi-electrified state. Under its hood gurgles and sparks a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that, on front-wheel-drive trims, scored 44/37/41 mpg on the EPA drive cycles and, on all-wheel-drive trims, 43/37/40 mpg respectively.
• Escape Plug-in - Pricing for the plug-in version of the crossover is significantly increased over the simpler hybrid but it’s benefitted by an all-electric range of around 30 miles on a single charge. It’s also capable of reaching speeds of up to 85 mph on electrons alone.
• Fusion - Probably one of the manufacturer’s better known electrified automobiles, the midsize sedan is powered by a 2.0-liter four-pot mill that’s integrated with an 88 kW motor. The FWD sedan earned consumption ratings of 43/41/42 miles to the gallon.
• Fusion Energi - With its 2.0-liter four-cylinder drive and 88 kW motor, the plug-in version of the three-box sedan presented MPGe figures of 109/97/103. With the ability to charge its battery at will, this model is availed a range of 26 miles with no gasoline being burnt.
• Explorer - The Blue Oval’s only alternative-fuel full-size SUV, the Explorer arrives bearing a 3.3-liter V6 augmented by battery power. While its fuel consumption of 27/29/28 and 23/26/25 mpg from the RWD and AWD variations respectively aren’t too phenomenal, its outputs of 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of electrified torque are what make it shine as a highly capable semi-electric sport-utility vehicle.

Ford Hybrid Advantages and Disadvantages

There’s a clear inherent edge to all cars that are augmented with alternative propulsion technology but with the relatively new innovation, also come some untoward compromises:

Pros

• Lowered emissions
• Substantially improved fuel-efficiency
• Better off-the-line acceleration

Cons

• Compromised cabin and/or cargo space
• Significantly higher pricing due to complex equipment
• Typically feature unengaging automatic gearboxes

Ford Hybrid Specifications and Prices

FAQs on Ford Hybrids