If you don’t mind a design that’s all yesterday, and if 34 mpg sounds tempting, the 2012 Ford Escape Hybrid is the compact crossover SUV for you.
The Escape Hybrid gives the SUV buyer a good, earth-friendly feeling by reducing fuel emissions and increasing mileage without sacrificing much utility. Powered by the Atkinson-cycle 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which is linked to an electric motor, the Escape Hybrid gives you the sort of acceleration rate you’d expect from a V6.
Making its debut in 2009, the Escape Hybrid is nearly 30% more fuel-efficient than it’s gas-only cousins. The EPA rates the Escape Hybrid at 34/31mpg. The mileage bonus comes from a four-cylinder, 153 pony engine teamed with a set of batteries and motors which add torque when the situation demands. The Escape can run on its batteries alone all the way up to 25 mph and should be able to drive for 40 miles between charges. If you think about it though, 25 mph is the bare minimum you really drive, so this sounds better than it really is.
The Escape Hybrid’s environmental sensitivity doesn’t stop with fuel economy. Not only does the Escape Hybrid sport fabric seat covers made from 100% post-industrial materials, but it even has cushions made from bio-based polyurethane foam which is created using green-friendly substances like soybean and cottonseed oils.
The Escape Hybrid may be green, but it’s not entirely geeky. It looks sharp in a rugged, capable kind of way. It is reliable, safe, easy (if not thrilling) to drive, and has enough cargo room to take kids to and from soccer practice or Little League games.
The Escape Hybrid gets consistently top marks in its class for safety. Equipping the Escape with front airbags, front and rear-side curtain airbags for passengers, and front side airbags, Ford has gone the extra mile to protect you and your family - if only the same could be said for functionality. Both trim packages offer AdvanceTrac stability control, anti-rollover technology, 4-wheel ABS, and even tire pressure monitoring.
The Ford Escape Hybrid comes in two trim packages: Limited and Base. With the Limited style you’ll get 16-inch bright aluminum wheels (not the best for traction control or comfort of ride), chrome exterior accents and ebony and chrome interior accents. A six-speaker audio system comes standard, and upscale options which include heated front leather seating surfaces, ambient lighting, Reverse Sensing System, a power moon roof, rear view camera and universal garage door opener are also available.
Starting at $30,570, the Ford Escape Hybrid is a bargain if you’re looking for fuel economy, decent utility and sub-par functionality.
