2010 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). It gets Integrated Spotter Mirrors, MyKey and an available Rear View Camera System to an already extensive list of family-friendly safety features for 2010. The 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid is available in two environment-friendly models (Base and Limited) and comfortably seats five adults and has a versatile cargo area.

Power 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 29/27/28.

Body and styling

The 2010 Ford 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 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid comes with a long list of safety features that includes antilock brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags and full-length head curtain airbags with a rollover sensor.