Since its 2005-model-year debut, the Ford Escape Hybrid compact crossover has drawn nothing but praise from both the media and the public alike for its class-leading fuel economy. Continuing the tradition, the 2012 Escape Hybrid trims look to be just as efficient, just as green and just as popular as their predecessors. Available in two trims, the base Hybrid and the loaded-up Limited, this mini-ute can tote up to 66 cubic feet of cargo with the rear seats folded, while its unibody construction gives it an edge in ride and handling capabilities. Alas, the Hybrid’s extra weight makes it just a bit more unwieldy than its non-hybrid siblings, and its unibody frame is not compatible with off-road adventures. Of course, full-time all-wheel drive (AWD) will be available for both 2012 Escape Hybrid trims, but again, a word of caution: Unlike on-demand four-wheel drive (4WD), the AWD configuration, though fine for slippery roadways, is not designed for off-road use. One final drawback is the Escape Hybrid’s base MSRP of over $30,500 -- big money for a small ute.

Nonetheless, coming closest to the 2012 Escape Hybrid’s pure fuel efficiency is Volkswagen’s Jetta TDI diesel, which has nearly identical mileage numbers backed by a solid performance record, but is far from eco-friendly. Other compact crossovers that may rate a look are the Chevrolet Equinox, the Honda CR-V and Toyota’s RAV4. The latter three are considered superior in price and performance to Ford’s entry, but none are quite so fuel miserly.

As of now, the 2012 Escape Hybrid is expected to remain essentially unchanged from 2011. Rumors are flying, however, of a major redesign that would give Ford’s popular but aging small crossover design a longer, sleeker profile, a more fuel-efficient gas engine and a more powerful, longer-lasting hybrid/electric battery. Word is that both the Escape Hybrid and its gasoline-only Escape siblings will be based on the current European Kuga trims, with a possible name change to boot.

Be that as it may, a best guess is that the 2012 Escape Hybrid trims will, once again, offer a standard 2.5-liter Atkinson hybrid inline 4-cylinder (I4) engine as their major powerplant. The gas-burning I4 is expected to be backed up by a pair of electric motors, one dedicated to accessories and the other combining with the I4 for 177 hp and 136 lb-ft of torque. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is once more expected to manage this output, and the traditional nickel-metal hydride battery should remain rechargeable by both the I4 and through regenerative braking, where braking energy is transformed from heat to storable electricity. Ford claims that the Escape Hybrid can accelerate up to 44 mph on electric power alone for short distances, but expect it to tow only about 1,000 pounds. In any case, look forward to around 34 mpg city/31 highway in FWD trims and 30/27 in AWD-equipped versions, with those figures considered the best in the business. Finally, those Escape Hybrid trims sporting available AWD should again depend on a mechanical, limited-slip center differential for added traction.

Traditionally known for state-of-the-art techno-features, Ford will doubtless continue to load the 2012 Escape Hybrid trims with a veritable cornucopia of exterior and cabin goodies. Expect the base Hybrid to mount standard 16-inch alloy wheels and a roof rack outside, while premium cloth upholstery and a power-adjustable driver’s seat will pamper owners on the inside. Further standard comfort and convenience amenities should include digital keypad power door locks, power windows and mirrors, cruise control, a tilting, leather-wrapped steering wheel with mounted cruise and audio controls, front and rear floormats, and dual-zone climate control. Once again, a single-CD player with four speakers, Sirius satellite radio and a USB connection are expected to provide entertainment, with Ford’s popular Sync hands-free audio and communication interface (via Bluetooth) making things easier. Options for the base Hybrid will likely remain rear-seat DVD entertainment, voice-activated navigation and seven-speaker premium sound system combo, a power moonroof, remote engine start, integrated side-steps and roof-rack cross rails.

The Escape Hybrid Limited, meanwhile, is expected to add standard leather-trimmed upholstery, heated outside mirrors, a universal remote garage-door opener, rear-view camera and a power glass sunroof to the mix. Additionally, a couple of extra speakers, for a total of six, should also remain standard in the Hybrid Limited. As the singular additional option over its more plebian stablemate, the Escape Hybrid Limited will again offer Ford’s superbly wrought Auto Park system to help relieve the stress of parallel parking.

Safety-wise, the 2012 Escape Hybrid lineup should once again maintain its five-star rating. Four-wheel antilock brakes (front disc/rear drum), as well as traction and stability control are expected to return, as will front side-mounted airbags and front and rear head airbags. Further standard safety equipment should include front fog/driving lights, Ford’s popular MyKey programmable speed- and audio-limiting technology, and post-collision safety systems. A Vehicle Security System with remote antitheft alarm is again expected to be optional with either Hybrid trim.

The hefty pricetag, as well as a surprisingly raspy engine and a lack of high-end interior finish materials, are among the glitches that owners find in 2011 Escape Hybrid trims. Jaw-dropping gas mileage, however, along with available AWD and plenty of high-tech toys continue to draw high praise for and satisfied owners of this green-leaning crossover.