Likes - Great 4WD gas mileage
- SYNC allows iPod voice commands
- MyKey controls teen driving
- Capless fuel system
Dislikes - Heated seats too toasty
- Tailgate needs embedded one-touch closure button
- Parking or backup features not a necessity
Tech Specs - 2.5 liter 4-Cyl. 177 hp
- MPG: 34 city/31 highway
What's New/Changed - Active Park Assist
- Integrated Spotter Mirrors
- Standard MyKey system
- Hands-free SYNC system
- Rear View Camera system
The Vehix View - The 2010 Escape Hybrid paves the way, as it remains one of America’s most environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient SUVs at around 30-mpg.
First Impressions
To protect and serve explains the 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid (view photos).
The very existence of the 2.5-liter Atkinson Cycle engine has single-handedly reduced millions of pounds of carbon emissions. The all-new MyKey system allows parents to lock engine speeds and audio volume when teens take the car. Plus, the Escape received 5-star government ratings for frontal and rear seat collisions.
And as the official vehicle of the Los Angeles County Lifeguard service, Ford estimates the Escape Hybrid assisted in over 9,000 rescues this year, from towing swimmers out of rip currents to providing key rescue gear in shorter notice.
So with just the right amount of steel brawn, technical smarts and an earth-conscious heart (hybrid engine), the Escape Hybrid is something of a hero.
Pricing, Trims and Options
The Ford Escape Hybrid comes in two eco-friendly models: Base ($28,750) and Limited ($32,295), with front-wheel drive (FWD) standard and Ford's Intelligent 4-Wheel Drive (4WD) optional.
My Limited front-wheel test drive came with standard interior highlights such as the new Rear View Camera system and a power moonroof. In terms of equipment add-ons, the Limited has an AdvanceTrac stability control system, which has the power to apply braking for you.
Interior Features
Upon entry, you'll notice the Escape Hybrid's generous-sized moonroof and premium leather-trimmed seats. The 6-way power driver's seat positioning is firm and refined with excellent visibility (one of the benefits of choosing a smaller SUV).
The rear glass on the tailgate lifts separately, which is a nice feature for those times you need to just reach in and grab something. I'd like to see Ford to develop a one-touch closure button embedded in the tailgate rather than relying on the key fob. But that’s a minor thing.
The Escape and its more refined twin, the Mercury Mariner Hybrid, become the first Ford vehicles to feature the voice-recognition software SYNC. This system integrates GPS technology and Bluetooth for hands-free access to personalized traffic reports and turn-by-turn directions. It takes phone calls and talks to your iPod. It's pretty impressive.
The great thing about SYNC is that it is easy to use, but if you don't know how, Ford is launching awareness programs inside certain Best Buy stores to teach consumers how to figure it all out. During one 30-day test program in Dallas, 80 percent of participants stated that understanding how to use the SYNC system improved their overall opinion of Ford – and 70 percent said they'd now consider buying one of the company brands.
Safety, Quality and Reliability
Ford adds five new safety features to the Escape Hybrid. Parents of driving teens are sure to love the standard MyKey system, where the actual vehicle key can be programmed to limit speed and audio volumes.
Another new safety feature is the Integrated Spotter Mirrors. When traffic enters blind spots, a secondary convex mirror located in the top outer corner of the side-view mirrors basically magnifies the image of the car. So the blind spot gains vision.
Ford also offers the following safety highlights on the Escape:
- AdvanceTrac with RSC
- Safety Canopy
- Personal Safety System
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- LATCH, a set of rigid metal anchor bars designed to work with LATCH-compatible child safety seats
All Hybrid-specific components are covered by a warranty of 8 years or 100,000 miles.