A Guilt-Free SUV
There is consensus among the world's leading scientists that greenhouse gases produced by fossil fuel-reliant societies are
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| Ford's concept in building the Escape Hybrid was to create a "green" SUV, without sacrificing the traditional SUV functionality. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
depleting the ozone layer and contributing to a global warming trend that could hold devastating results for us all. That stark reality is often on my mind as I road test gas-guzzling SUVs and the like. This week however, that suppressed sense of guilt was banished from my emotional landscape like liquor at an AA meeting, thanks to the
Ford Escape Hybrid.
In terms of versatility, safety and cargo-hauling ability, the SUV is hard to beat. Unfortunately, the flipped coin reveals
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| The Escape Hybrid is not only the world's cleanest, most fuel efficient SUV, but it can still tow a load. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
excessive
fuel consumption and choking emissions - until now that is. Ford's concept in building the Escape Hybrid was to create a "green" SUV, without compromising the vehicle's cargo capacity, on-road performance, towing ability and four-wheel-drive ruggedness. According to Ford, the Escape Hybrid is not only the world's cleanest, most fuel efficient SUV (Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle rating), but despite its hybrid status it can still tow a 454 kilo (1,000 lb) load. OK, that's not a ton of stuff, only half that, but it's a better tow rating than a front-drive
Honda Civic Hybrid or Toyota Prius.
