Pricing for the 2020 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid will start at $34,235 with destination, a dealer order guide reveals. With a range of premium features and standard driver assistance tech, the model will complete a three-pronged approach for the 2020 Escape involving gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid SUVs.

At that price, the Escape SE Plug-In will be $4,775 more expensive than an Escape SE Sport Hybrid ($29,460) and $5,935 more than a regular Escape SE ($28,300). As a result, it will undercut the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV by over $3,200, making it the most affordable plug-in SUV in the U.S.

That said, plug-in hatchbacks like the Toyota Prius Prime ($28,705) and Kia Niro Plug-In ($29,545) will be far more affordable. Interestingly, the cheapest Escape Plug-In will be just $160 more than the now-discontinued Chevrolet Volt, although prices at the top of the range will exceed $40,000.

With the exception of the 53-mile Volt, the Escape's estimated "30+" miles of range will surpass each of those vehicles. While Toyota plans to introduce a new model called the RAV4 Prime by next summer, Ford is poised to beat it to the punch with a release date slated for the spring of 2020.

Will the Escape PHEV be a good value? That depends.

The RAV4 Prime promises to be the most powerful RAV4 ever with up to 302 hp plus a range of up to 39 miles. As a result, it could be a compelling choice for those willing to wait. Both models are expected to qualify for a federal tax credit, although the amounts are not yet posted on the IRS website.

For reference, the Ford C-Max Energi was eligible for a credit of up to $4,007 while the Fusion Energi qualifies for $4,609. Even with a $4,000 credit and a $1,000 state rebate in places like California, the effective cost of an Escape Plug-In could fall below the $30,000 mark once it goes on sale.

One of the main differences between the RAV4 Prime and Escape PHEV will be that the former will only be offered with all-wheel-drive while the latter will only be sold in a front-wheel-drive setup. Depending on your priorities, this could be either a deal-breaker or a mild inconvenience.

Like the standard 2020 Escape, the Plug-In will come with advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot warning, and automatic high beams. Additions for the Plug-In include a post-collision braking system and "pedestrian alert sounder".

The SE features 18-inch aluminum wheels, a heated 10-way power driver's seat, and upscale touches like LED signature headlights and taillamps, privacy glass, and a 6-inch touchscreen with SYNC 3. The most notable option is adaptive cruise control paired with voice-activated navigation for $695.

The SEL starts at $36,815 and adds features like a hands-free power liftgate, fog lights, and roof rails. Drivers also get a remote start system and a reverse sensing system, as well as sportier seats. A panoramic roof can be added as an option for an additional $1,495.

The Titanium trim sits at the top of the range and starts at $40,030, adding premium features like a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, wireless charging, and acoustic glass. It also boasts a 12.3-inch touchscreen, leather-trimmed seats, and the full range of driver assistance features plus park assist.

It appears clear that shoppers in 2020 will have some solid options as far as plug-in SUVs. A Ford spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment.

View This Month's Top Plug-In Deals »