Many manufacturers are no longer content to simply offer a model in a given category; they also offer hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants. This is the case with the two models we're comparing here, the Ford Escape and the Hyundai Tucson.
Which one gives you the best deal? It's with the Ford representative, and the arguments that follow make that clear.
The hybrid version
Ford's Escape Hybrid features a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and electric power. The system is highly efficient, so much so that it's possible to maintain an average of 6.0 liters per 100 kilometers with this version, even a little less.
Hyundai has decided to take a different approach. The hybrid variant is served by a 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder. This engine offers more power, but is more greedy at the pump in hybrid configuration (6.4 liters).
When you think about it, isn't the very mission of a hybrid model to offer the best possible fuel economy rating? The Ford Escape does just that.
The plug-in hybrid variant
When it comes to the plug-in hybrid variant, once again, we have to give Ford the edge. The ultimate goal here is to offer maximum range in electric mode. Every kilometer counts, because after hundreds of kilometers of driving, you save whole tanks of gas.
With the Ford Escape, the range is 61 kilometers. With the Hyundai Tucson, it's 53. That's an extra 8 km you can cover on a full charge. Those kilometers add up quickly, and end up making a difference to your wallet.
The drive
Finally, while Hyundai has made giant strides with its model and now offers one of the best players in its class, the driving experience remains disappointing when compared to that of the Ford Escape. To put it simply, the Tucson still feels like a utility vehicle, whereas the Escape feels like a car.
So, as well as being more efficient, the Escape is more fun to drive. Really, the choice is easy to make here.
