Escape was the first domestic SUV or crossover nameplate to offer a hybrid model. And this is a “full” hybrid; it can run solely on electric power (if you’re gentle on the throttle and don’t exceed 48 km/h).
The gas engine is a 2.5-litre I4 litre unit running on the Atkinson cycle. The electric motor adds the equivalent of about 94 horses, to give this vehicle the motivational feel of about 177 available horses. The transmission is a CVT.
For 2010, the hybrid benefits from the development work done on the Fusion/Milan hybrids, specifically a more powerful metal hydride battery, and new programming on the CVT.
Also new for 2010 is the addition of a Limited range. So the new model hierarchy shakes out like this: Base FWD ($34,899), Base 4WD ($37,299), Limited FWD ($39,899), and Limited 4WD ($42,299).
Obviously this is a premium over regular Escape models, which can be had for little as $24,499. But you get increased fuel economy. FWD models are rated at 5.8L/100 km city/6.5 L/100 km highway, and 4WD models are rated at 6.6 city/7.3 highway. Unlike the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, which uses electric motors at each rear wheel, the Escape’s 4WD system is essentially the same one found on “regular” Escapes (but it is also a reactive type, which only sends power to the rear wheels when slippage is detected).
All Escapes received a mid-cycle refresh in 2009 (new fascia and fenders, and interior).
New features for 2010 include Integrated Blind Spot Monitor, MyKey programmable key, rear-view camera, Active Park Assist, and SYNC with traffic, directions and information.
photo:Ford
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The gas engine is a 2.5-litre I4 litre unit running on the Atkinson cycle. The electric motor adds the equivalent of about 94 horses, to give this vehicle the motivational feel of about 177 available horses. The transmission is a CVT.
For 2010, the hybrid benefits from the development work done on the Fusion/Milan hybrids, specifically a more powerful metal hydride battery, and new programming on the CVT.
Also new for 2010 is the addition of a Limited range. So the new model hierarchy shakes out like this: Base FWD ($34,899), Base 4WD ($37,299), Limited FWD ($39,899), and Limited 4WD ($42,299).
Obviously this is a premium over regular Escape models, which can be had for little as $24,499. But you get increased fuel economy. FWD models are rated at 5.8L/100 km city/6.5 L/100 km highway, and 4WD models are rated at 6.6 city/7.3 highway. Unlike the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, which uses electric motors at each rear wheel, the Escape’s 4WD system is essentially the same one found on “regular” Escapes (but it is also a reactive type, which only sends power to the rear wheels when slippage is detected).
All Escapes received a mid-cycle refresh in 2009 (new fascia and fenders, and interior).
New features for 2010 include Integrated Blind Spot Monitor, MyKey programmable key, rear-view camera, Active Park Assist, and SYNC with traffic, directions and information.
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photo:Ford
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