2012 Ford Escape Hybrid

2012 Ford Escape is a compact crossover SUV 5-passenger. With high tech features and automatic parking function, but has no overall improvement and function compared with competitors. 2012 Ford Escape will close by challenging competitors like the Honda CR-V, Kia Sportage, Subaru Forester and 2011. 2012 Ford Escape is expected to be less expensive than its competitors. The new Escape is expected to be offered at an affordable price.

Engine, drive train and Suspension Specifications

All three versions come with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 171 standard horsepower and the use of a choice of five speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox; this can be upgraded to 240-hp 3.0-liter V6 and six-speed automatic on all but the XLS model basis. Both the front and all-wheel drive is available. Fuel economy ranges from 18 mpg city/23 highway to 21/28 depending on the combination of the size of the engine and drive train selected.

The exterior features

Base XLS model comes standard with a glass flip-up liftgate and an optional roof rack and latitude. XLT is getting an upgrade to a standard automatic headlamps, fog lamps, privacy glass, roof rack and side rails. Options include a roof rack cross bar integrated side steps, power moonroof, and heated side mirrors. Limited edition includes high-end features previously standard and make the heated side mirrors and roof rack cross is also standard. Options consist of rearview camera, Active Park Assist, a reverse sensing system, an integrated side step bars, and power moonroof.

Interior Features

The XLS comes with a message center, mounted coat hook, battery saver, and split folding rear bench seat. Auto-dimming rearview mirror, retractable cargo cover, and the remote starter is optional. XLT adds standard leather-wrapped steering wheel, compass, outside temperature display, air console with storage bin, illuminated vanity mirrors, power driver's seat, and eco-friendly seat. Optional features include ambient lighting, retractable cargo cover, remote starter, heated front seats, and premium leather seats. Top-of-the-line Limited gains standard ambient lighting, retractable cargo cover and leather seats. Options consist of dual-zone automatic climate control, universal garage door opener and remote starter.

Entertainment System

All three versions come with a standard CD system, four speakers, and audio input jack. XLT adds SiriusXM Satellite Radio standard and optional premium sound system upgrade with SYNC voice-activated, while the Limited adds SiriusXM and SYNC standard and optional premium sound system upgrade and voice-activated navigation system.

Safety

Standard safety devices on all three models include Personal Safety System, traction control, stability control, ABS, front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, side curtain airbags, LATCH system, and tire-pressure monitoring system. In the NHTSA crash tests, Escape won the overall value of only three stars out of five. In the IIHS testing, it was rated "good" for frontal-offset and side impact tests, whereas roof strength test results are "marginal."

In short, Ford's Sync system connects to the smartphone and MP3 player, allowing you to issue voice commands to control your entertainment features. Interior looks interesting but does not have the comfort and space. Reviewers noted that the Escape is fun to drive but left behind competitors when it comes to sophistication and ride quality; Escape feels like a truck.