The 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid is advertised as the most frugal sport-utility vehicle in America when it comes to fuel consumption.  This is largely due to a concentrated effort from Ford to save weight and improve the capabilities of the SUV’s outstanding gasoline / electric powertrain, allowing them to claim dominance in an area of the market where few other automakers have tread.

The Escape Hybrid combines two electric motors generating 94 horsepower with a 2.5 liter, 153 horsepower gasoline engine that form a system with a total output of 177 ponies.  Buyers who opt for all-wheel drive (4×4) will see a third electric motor installed in their vehicle which is designed to step in and offer extra grunt for the rear wheels should traction conditions demand their intervention.  A continuously-variable transmission handles the gear shifting duties, and thanks to excellent system management the Escape Hybrid is about as fast as a regular version of the same truck.  The Hybrid’s fuel mileage is rated at 34 miles per gallon in the city and 31 miles per gallon on the highway for front-wheel drive models, with all-wheel drive lopping off 4 miles per gallon from each measure.

The 2010 model has seen a number of upgrades over the previous model, both in terms of cosmetics and features.  Technological options such as a rearview camera and a special system that allows for increased parental control over vehicle speeds will grab the attention of most buyers, but the vehicle’s automatic parallel-parking feature is also impressive in terms of how it handles a task a fair number of drivers find challenging at best.

All versions of the Escape Hybrid come nicely equipped with automatic climate controls, cruise control and power windows, door locks and mirrors.  The Hybrid Limited trim boasts a sunroof, heated leather seats and upgraded interior accents, while navigation is available as an option across the entire line.  The vehicle’s cargo area is barely smaller than the conventionally-powered Escape, with 66 cubic feet of total storage space available once the rear seats are out of the picture.

Was this information helpful? See similar reviews of all 2009 and 2010 hybrid vehicles by ordering the Hybrid Guide.

2010 Ford Escape Hybrid Review:

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