Escape is a very competitive choice in the small SUV segment, and for someone looking to help save the planet while bringing their spouse, 2.5 kids, and associated accoutrement along for the ride, a nice alternative to a MINI Cooper.
There’s a new 2.5 liter, 4-cylinder engine that brings with it a much needed boost in power. While the old Escape Hybrid’s 133 horsepower was barely adequate, the 153 hp in the 2009 model is firmly adequate. It’s also a bit quieter and smoother, but not exactly either.
The added power is appreciated, and the gasoline engine works in better concert with the electric motor and continuously variable transmission to move the Escape Hybrid around with less obvious effort than before. Watching the power flow chart on the multimedia screen, I was surprised at how often the juice is on, even at highway cruising speed, not to mention how easy it is to drive the Escape Hybrid without looking out of the windshield.Around town a judicious right foot can keep the fossil fuel at bay for a couple of miles before running the battery down. I often traveled several city blocks without emitting any CO2 and was once able to get the Escape Hybrid up to 35 mph using only the flow of electrons. Impressive for a vehicle that weighs 700 pounds more than a Toyota Prius, a car in which I have never come close to that speed without combusting something internally.
Base Price: $30,635
As Tested: $33,725
Type: Front-engine, front-wheel drive, 5-door crossover
Engine: 2.5-liter Inline-4 cylinder w/electric assist
Power: 153 horsepower, 136 lb-ft torque
Transmission: Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable
MPG: 34 city/31 highway
What do you think about the Escape Hybrid?
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,486729,00.html
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