The 2011 Ford Escape Hybrid SUV continues to offer superior fuel economy as its past years’ models. The Ford Escape Hybrid has been available for about five years. The 2011 Escape Hybrid combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and a battery-powered electric motor. An all-wheel drive version is rated at 29 mpg combined.
Ford uses a number of technologies to deliver this fuel economy. Additionally, the Escape uses Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) instead of the more commonly used hydraulic power steering pump. The EPAS system only operates when steering assistance is needed. The technologic wizardry included with the 2011 Ford Escape is impressive
The 2011 Ford Escape Hybrid has the best combined fuel economy rating in its class and a driving experience that’s remarkably similar to conventional SUVs. Overall, car reviewers are impressed with the 2011 Ford Escape Hybrid. As strong as the Escape Hybrid’s case is, its high price tag punches a hole in it. If you’re looking to go green and save gas, but need an SUV, the Ford Escape Hybrid is worth it. Starting at about $5,000 less than the Escape hybrid, the Terrain has a better highway fuel economy rating, though it can’t match the hybrid in the city.
Changes to the 2011 Ford Escape Hybrid are relatively minor. Ford's MyKey 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.
Safety
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 MyKey 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.
Driving Impressions
While some hybrid models have developed a reputation for sluggish performance, the 2011 Ford Escape Hybrid actually doesn't feel that different from its V6-powered cousins.