Need a high-end hybrid compact crossover for an eco-friendly and fuel-miserly commute? Check out the 2012 Ford Escape Hybrid Limited. This flagship trim seats 5 passengers amid leather-trimmed upholstery, heated front seats, a 6-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and a tilt-adjustable leather-trimmed steering wheel mounting audio and cruise controls. A standard roof rack, heated power-adjustable mirrors, 16-inch alloy wheels and a power sunroof endow the handsome profile, while dual-zone auto climate control, full power accessories, a universal remote garage door opener, rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera adorn the cabin.
Entertainment, meantime, consists of a single-CD player with 6 speakers, satellite radio, auxiliary iPhone interface and a USB port, all managed by Ford’s touted Sync infotainment system and further complemented by Bluetooth hands-free communications.
Remote engine start remains available to the top-shelf Escape Hybrid Limited, as do hard-drive-based navigation, a premium 7-speaker audio upgrade, rear-seat DVD entertainment and Ford’s well-wrought Active Parking Assist feature that conveniently parallel-parks this compact crossover with the push of a button.
Doing the grunt work aboard Ford’s high-end hybrid mini-ute is a 2.5-liter gas-powered inline 4-cylinder (I4) powerplant that mates with a 70-kilowatt electric motor and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for a total of 177 hp and 136 lb-ft of torque. Regenerative braking mates with the four-banger to keep the nickel-metal hydride battery potent enough to power the Escape Hybrid Limited up to 25 mph for short distances, while mileage in this front-wheel-drive-only (FWD) version is estimated at 34 mpg city/31 highway with auto engine stop/start capability.
Finally, noteworthy standard safety equipment aboard the eco-friendly Escape Hybrid Limited includes 4-wheel antilock brakes (front disc, rear drum), traction and stability control, front and rear head airbags, and front side-mounted airbags. Further standard safety features include front fog/driving lights, dusk-sensing headlights, MyKey programmable speed and audio settings, and a post-collision safety system backed by Sync automated post-crash alerts. Finally, a passive antitheft alarm again contributes its share to owner security.
