2011 Escape Hybrid

Ford Escape Hybrid

The Ford Escape Hybrid was introduced for the 2009 model year. Like the gas-powered Escape, the Hybrid's more sport-Ute in styling themes than other crossovers. For an in-depth look at this hybrid SUV, read our most recent full review of the Escape Hybrid.

The "Ford Escape Hybrid" is one of a few Ford vehicles to offer the option of a self-parking system. Competitors include the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.

The Escape Hybrid incorporates Roll Stability Control. Standard side-impact airbags for the front seats. Changes to the 2011 Escape Hybrid are relatively minor. Ford's My Key system is now standard on all models.

The Ford Escape Hybrid has been around for five years now. The Escape is well equipped with some cool technological features, including Ford's Sync voice-activated multimedia system and an automated parallel-parking feature.

The Escape Hybrid is not without its faults, however. The 2011 Ford Escape Hybrid is available in two trim levels: base and limited. Upgrading to the Escape Hybrid Limited adds chrome exterior accents, a sunroof, rear parking assist, a rearview camera with a display located in the rearview mirror, piano-black interior treatments, leather upholstery, heated front seats and mirrors and multicolor ambient lighting.

Options include the sunroof (base model only) and a voice-operated navigation system that includes a hybrid energy flow/fuel-consumption display and a premium seven-speaker audio system that includes digital music storage, Sirius Travel Link and new HD radio capability. The 2011 Escape Hybrid is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine as well as a battery-powered electric motor; combined they produce 177 horsepower. EPA estimates for fuel economy put the front-wheel-drive Escape Hybrid at the top of the "hybrid SUV" category with 34 mpg city/31 mpg highway and 32 mpg in combined driving.

The "2011 Ford Escape Hybrid" comes standard with antilock brakes (front disc, rear drum), stability control, front-seat side airbags and full-length head curtain airbags with rollover sensors. Ford's programmable My Key system allows parents to specify maximum speed limits and stereo volumes for their teenage drivers.

The 2011 Ford Escape Hybrid features an attractive interior dressed up with soft-touch materials. While some hybrid models have developed a reputation for sluggish performance, the 2011 Escape Hybrid actually doesn't feel that different from its V6-powered cousins.