Engine
2.3-liter 4-cyl. and electric motor, combined 155 hp
Transmission
CVT
|
The Ford Escape Hybrid is equipped with a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric traction motor. Together, the hybrid system makes a net 155 horsepower.
Ford says the five-passenger Escape Hybrid, coming out as a 2005 model, gets about 38 mpg — approximately 50 percent better gas mileage than a conventional Escape — and can travel 576 miles on the contents of its 15-gallon gas tank.
Like other hybrids, the Escape features a gasoline engine that automatically shuts off instead of idling inefficiently. The engine is paired with an electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission. The sport utility vehicle can be ordered with an optional automatic four-wheel-drive system, and it can tow up to 1,000 pounds.
At a glance, the Escape Hybrid looks nearly identical to its internal-combustion-powered sibling, with the same 103.1-inch wheelbase. The only visual differences are a rear vent window on the driver’s side of the hybrid version that automatically opens to cool the rear-mounted, 330-volt nickel-metal-hydride battery pack. Also, the vehicle’s nameplate is adorned with a tiny green leaf to reflect its environmentally friendly nature.
In the cabin, the Escape Hybrid’s shift lever has been moved from the steering column to the floor. Company officials say the No. 1 consumer complaint about the best-selling Escape SUV has been the steering-column-mounted gearshift lever. The Escape Hybrid also features new chrome-ringed gauges and better seat fabrics. This model represents the first time that side curtain-type airbags are offered as an option. They’re expected to be priced at around $425.
The four-wheel-drive Escape Hybrid is expected to cost $3,000 more than the gasoline-powered version, which starts at $20,500 for a base model.
J.D. Power and Associates reports that the number of hybrid models is expected to grow from five in 2003 to more than 30 by 2008. Sales of gasoline/electric hybrid vehicles in the United States in 2004 are expected to exceed 100,000 units, up from 47,000 sold in 2003. Hybrid sales are also expected to climb to more than 440,000 units by 2008. |
— Reported by
Anita Lienert, cars.com;
images courtesy of the manufacturer |
