Over the past few years, we’ve seen a major trend toward people choosing crossover utility vehicles (CUVs) over larger SUVs. The big motivator here, of course, is buying a more eco-friendly vehicle that will also save you a bundle of money on gas. The 2012 Ford Escape Hybrid takes this trend a step further with its superior fuel economy and reduced emissions.
Key Features
One of the major features that consumers love in the 2012 Ford Escape Hybrid is that it can run on electric power alone. It also comes with a standard stability system to help in rough terrain, and its optional navigation system includes hybrid readouts so you’ll know how far you can go before you fuel up or charge up.
Changes for 2012
Like the other models of the Escape, the 2012 Escape Hybrid didn’t have any major changes in 2012.
What We Like
With 177 horsepower at 6000 RPM and 136 lb-ft of torque at 5500 RPM, the 2012 Ford Escape Hybrid might not be anything to write home about compared with other SUVs, but compare it with both CUVs and hybrids, and you’ll see why we like it so much. We also like that it has a very comfortable ride without losing any of its rugged appeal.
What Concerns Us
If you want to get out into the great outdoors with a lot of heavy camping gear and a full load of people, you might end up taxing the engine and electric motor, but if you stay within the towing and hauling capacity (usually located on a sticker inside the driver-side door) for the Escape Hybrid, you should be fine.
Available Models
The 2012 Ford Escape Hybrid comes in either a front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive model. For more luxury features, you can choose the Limited trim in either of these options. The engine is the same for all options:
- Engine – Gas/electric 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder
- Power – 177 HP at 6000 RPM
- Torque – 136lb-ft at 5500 RPM
- MPG (city/highway) – 34/31
Major Recalls
There have been no major recalls for the 2012 Ford Escape Hybrid.
Common Issues
While the 2011 model of this vehicle had some fuel system issues, these complaints haven’t shown up in the 2012 model at all. The only major issue that you should be concerned with is whether or not you’ll have enough power and torque to tow all that you need to take with you when you head out on your adventures.
