> 2012 Escape Features: performance

The Escape Hybrid delivers lively acceleration with low environmental impact and excellent fuel economy. This is the result of pairing an electric motor and gasoline engine. The electric motor can propel the vehicle up to 44 mph on its own under light acceleration. When extra power is needed, the 2.5L Atkinson-cycle I-4 gas engine joins in to deliver brisk acceleration. This engine features late intake valve closing (LIVC) as well as advancements in processor technology for a smooth transition from electric to gas mode.

The Escape features a 2.5L Duratec® I-4 engine that delivers an EPA-estimated 28 hwy mpg.* It can produce 171 horsepower and 171 lb.-ft. of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard and a six-speed automatic transmission is available.

*EPA-estimated 23 city/28 hwy/25 combined mpg with I-4 manual, FWD. EPA-estimated 21 city/28 hwy/23 combined with I-4 automatic, FWD.

The available 3.0L Duratec® V6 engine produces 240 horsepower and 223 lb.-ft. of torque, perfect for towing loads up to 3,500 lbs. when properly equipped. Mated to a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission, this engine delivers an EPA-estimated 25 hwy mpg* and can operate on standard unleaded gasoline or E85 alternative fuel.

*EPA-estimated 19 city/25 hwy/21 combined mpg, FWD.

The smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission is available with the standard 2.5L Duratec® I-4 engine and standard with the available 3.0L Duratec® V6. With its wide span of gear ratios across the six speeds, this transmission provides responsive acceleration at the low end and excellent highway fuel economy* in the overdrive sixth gear.

*EPA-estimated 21 city/28 hwy/23 combined mpg, I-4 automatic, FWD; 19 city/25 hwy/21 combined mpg, V6 automatic, FWD.

Whether traveling on- or off-road, the available Intelligent 4WD System in the Escape is always on, working to help provide maximum traction. What’s so smart about the system is its ability to sense traction input 200 times per second and automatically adjust torque distribution as needed. Such adjustments work to help ensure maximum grip where the rubber meets the road.

All the Escape models come equipped with standard AdvanceTrac® with RSC®. This stability control system features gyroscopic sensors that measure both vehicle yaw and roll motion. If you corner too quickly or swerve to avoid an object, RSC® automatically applies brake pressure and adjusts engine power to help you keep your vehicle under control.*

*Remember that even advanced technology cannot overcome the laws of physics. It's always possible to lose control of a vehicle due to inappropriate driver input for the conditions.

The excellent handling characteristics of the Escape can be attributed, in part, to the independent double-lateral and semi-trailing arm design of the vehicle’s rear suspension system. This design allows each rear wheel to operate independently and negotiate road conditions individually. An 18.5mm rear stabilizer bar and precise suspension tuning also contribute to the controlled, responsive ride.

If you’re towing a boat or camper, the available 240-horsepower 3.0L Duratec® V6 engine provides the power you need. This muscular engine gives the Escape excellent towing capacity – up to 3,500 lbs. when equipped with the available Class II Trailer Tow Package. In addition, there’s trailer sway control that automatically determines from the yaw motion of the vehicle if the trailer is swaying and takes measures – such as applying precise braking or reducing engine torque – to help bring both the vehicle and the trailer under control.