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Ford Escape Hybrid - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid ranks 7 out of 21 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 21 published reviews and test drives of the Ford Escape Hybrid, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Along with its Mercury Mariner Hybrid platform-mate, the 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid is the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market. Most people expect that hybrid fuel economy comes at the expense of an enjoyable driving experience, but the Escape Hybrid's driving dynamics are just as good as a gasoline-only vehicle's -- and that's in addition to its maximum 32 mpg combined fuel economy. In fact, most reviewers agree that the Escape Hybrid's only major flaw is its steep sticker price.

Named most environmentally friendly Truck of the Year at the inaugural 2009 Earth, Wind & Power Awards, the Escape Hybrid is ideal for families who want to minimize their carbon footprint. But being environmentally conscious comes at a higher price.

At nearly $30,000, the base Escape Hybrid commands a $9,000 premium over its gasoline-powered Escape counterpart. This makes it one of the most expensive compact SUVs, although its price is a bit cheaper than many hybrids, including the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. Regardless, it will probably take families many years to make up that $9,000 in gas savings, so if being environmentally friendly isn't a top priority, you might want to look elsewhere. "All said, we think the 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid works pretty well for what it's supposed to be -- a small crossover SUV that delivers high fuel economy and available all-wheel drive," says Edmunds, adding, "But we definitely encourage potential buyers to check out alternatives and thoroughly crunch the numbers before making a decision."

New features for 2010 set the Escape (reviewed separately) and Escape Hybrid apart from competitors. These include MyKey, a system that allows owners to limit a vehicle's top speed and audio volume -- a big plus for parents. In addition, the Escape gets a rearview camera system and optional Active Park Assist to aid in parallel parking. Perhaps the most appreciated change is an electric air conditioning unit, which means drivers can now use the A/C without having to turn on the gasoline engine.

The Escape Hybrid is available in two trims -- the base and top-of-the-line Limited. Be sure to check for current Ford Deals that may be available on a new Escape Hybrid.

• "The Escape Hybrid delivers a unique combination of hybrid fuel efficiency, SUV utility and a sort of rugged and refined style that's appropriate for both downtowns and campgrounds." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "The Escape Hybrid is also a very functional mini-SUV that's enjoyable to drive and quite dependable." -- CNN Money
• "Bottom Line: Go forth and buy a Ford Escape Hybrid, but make double sure (triple sure?) that you're getting the 2010 model with the electric AC." -- Green Car Reports
• "Faithful drivers of the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V may not be deterred by the Escape's latest enhancements. However, Ford's latest tweaks make the 2010 Escape a very attractive option for new drivers." -- Automobile Magazine
• "The Escape is a hybrid SUV with solid moves at an affordable price for which no excuses need be made." -- Car and Driver

Escape-Hybrid Performance - 7.7 (Good)

The 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid receives praise for its performance, which feels very much like a non-hybrid SUV -- a plus, since many hybrids of the past have come with sub-par performance. Its major selling point is fuel economy, which bests that of any SUV on the market -- even in real-world driving. "The Escape Hybrid never feels more environmentally friendly than when it's gliding quietly through a parking lot -- or during short bouts of stop-and-go traffic -- on electricity alone," writes Kelley Blue Book. "Fortunately, when the novelty of all-electric operation wears off, Escape Hybrid owners are left with a perfectly pleasant daily driver." However, a drawback is the hybrid's long braking distances. Read More

Escape-Hybrid Exterior - NA

Not much has changed since the Escape Hybrid's exterior underwent a redesign in 2008 -- and reviewers don't have many opinions on the subject. "After its styling changes for 2008, the Escape Hybrid looks more like a Ford Explorer," says Cars.com. "It has a plunging chrome grille that would be equally at home on a Volkswagen Jetta or Passat." Exterior modifications, including a front bumper spoiler and rear tire spoilers, have increased the SUV's fuel economy by about one mile per gallon.  Read More

Escape-Hybrid Interior - 7.6 (Good)

In 2008, the Escape Hybrid made significant improvements in its interior comfort and quality. "The 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid provides occupants with a simple and uncluttered cabin with soft-touch materials for an upscale feel," says Edmunds. The Escape offers several innovative interior features not found inside competitors' cabins. These include the optional SYNC multimedia system, nifty ice-blue illumination at night and MyKey, which allows parents to limit the vehicle's top speed and audio volume.  Read More

Escape-Hybrid Safety - 9.9 (Excellent)

The 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid earns excellent crash test ratings from the federal government. The Escape Hybrid comes with plenty of air bags, a stability control system and even innovative safety options.  Read More

Escape-Hybrid Reliability - 7.0 (Good)

The 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid comes with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty.  Read More