Although the concept is five years old now, and the design far older, the 2011 Ford Escape Hybrid still has a lot to offer. Gas mileage is, of course, where this midsize, five-passenger gas-electric SUV earns (some of) its money. Such competitors as the Chevy Equinox, Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, though perhaps a bit more refined, either have no hybrid trims available or, as is the case with the Equinox, are newcomers to the idea of a midsize hybrid SUV.

In any case, the 2011 Escape Hybrid is delivered in two trims, the Base and Limited, each of which is available in either a front-wheel-drive (FWD) or all-wheel-drive (AWD) configuration. All trims provide 66 cubic feet of cargo space and come well equipped with handy gizmos and gadgets.

At the heart of the 2011 Escape Hybrid is a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine (I4) that pairs up with a 70-kilowatt electric motor for 177 hp and 136 lb-ft of torque. Regenerative braking helps the I4 replenish battery power, while the automatic engine stop/start feature helps ensure 34/31 mpg in FWD versions and 30/27 in AWD trims. Dashing a hope or two may be the fact that towing capacity is limited to a paltry 1,000 pounds, the hefty hybrid system degrades braking and handling a bit and the full-time AWD is great in snow and mud, but not recommended for off-road driving.

The 2011 Escape Hybrid, though stylistically a bit dated, certainly provides plenty of appearance goodies and creature comforts. Standard for the Base are such goodies as 16-inch alloy wheels, roof racks, premium cloth upholstery, power-adjustable driver’s seat, power accessories, including digital keypad power door locks, air conditioning, steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls, power accessories, including digital keypad power locks, leather-wrapped steering wheel, single-CD player with four speakers and Sirius satellite radio. The lineup-topping Hybrid Limited, meantime, adds standard 16-inch polished alloy wheels, leather upholstery, heated mirrors, hard-drive-based navigation, Bluetooth technology and a USB connection.

With the Base Escape Hybrid gaining many of the Limited’s standard features as options, such additional extras as 17-inch chrome-clad wheels, side step bars, SYNC infotainment technology, a power moonroof, dual-zone climate control and heated seats are available for both trims, while Active Parking Assist is optional with the Limited version.

Though the hefty hybrid technology puts a strain on the 2011 Escape Hybrid’s old-fashioned front disc/rear drum ABS technology, standard traction and stability control somewhat mitigate this shortcoming. Additional standard safety features include front side-mounted airbags, front and rear head airbags, front fog/driving lights and a post-collision safety system.

Obviously impressed with the mileage they’re getting with the 2010 Escape Hybrid, owners do, however, complain about its stodgy cabin atmosphere and materials, tepid handling, hefty price and somewhat uncomfortable seats. The lack of a telescoping steering column and a bit of a tight fit for five adults also contribute to some owner dismay. Most is forgiven, though, with owner appreciation of the Escape Hybrid’s no-nonsense looks, plethora of standard features, popular options, decent safety scores and the ever-popular SYNC system.