2012 FORD ESCAPE HYBRID Review

Overview

Escape Hybrid is widely recognized as America's most fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly SUV based on fuel economy estimates (EPA-estimated 34 city/31 highway mpg). The 2012 Ford Escape Hybrid is available in two environment-friendly models (Base and Limited) and comfortably seats five adults and has a versatile cargo area.

Powertrain And Performance

The Escape Hybrid comprises a 177 horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and two electric motors/generators mated to what Ford calls a continuously variable transmission. On AWD Escape Hybrid models, a third electric motor is available to drive the rear wheels when there is need for extra acceleration or traction. The front-wheel-driven Escape Hybrid delivers an impressive mileage of 34 mpg city/31 mpg highway and 32 mpg combined. The AWD version yields 30/27/29.

Build And Styling

The 2012 Escape Limited Hybrid has been packaged for environmentally conscious customers seeking a full complement of accessories and equipment. Along with its gas counterpart, the Escape Limited Hybrid features 16-inch, six-spoke bright machined aluminum wheels and exterior chrome accents, a standard AM-FM/6-CD changer, chrome and ebony interior touches and a luxury and convenience package that includes ambient lighting, heated front leather seating surfaces, a power moonroof, retractable cargo area cover and standard SecuriCode keyless entry. The options include black roof-rail crossbars, integrated side step bars, Intelligent 4WD System, power moonroof with sunshade and mini-overhead console, voice-activated Navigation System with nearly 10-gigabyte hard drive, single-disc Premium Sound System, Hybrid Energy Flow and Power & Efficiency monitors, and SIRIUS Travel Link services with 6-month subscription.

Safety Features

The 2012 Ford Escape Hybrid comes with a long list of safety features including AdvanceTrac traction control with RSC (Roll Stability Control), Safety Canopy, a side air curtain technology offering protection for the first and second seating rows, Personal Safety System, a suite of seven safety technologies, including dual-stage front air bags for the driver and front-seat passenger, side air bags and a front passenger sensor system, MyKey programmable vehicle key, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tether anchors for CHildren) system on rear seating positions.