2006 Ford Escape Hybrid 4WD

Standard equipment includes 16-inch aluminum wheels, 4-wheel ABS, air conditioning, power windows and locks, 6-way power driver's seat, steering wheel mounted speed control, front fog lamps, AM/FM/6-Disc in-dash CD player, center console with two cup holders and storage bin, dual vanity mirrors, cargo floor hooks and passive anti-theft system. Options, in addition to 4WD and the new Premium Package, significant options include a highly recommended Safety Package (Ford's patented Safety Canopy system with side air curtains and a rollover sensor and front side air bags), a moonroof and a retractable cargo cover.


At about $29,000, Ford's 4WD Escape Hybrid is roughly $3,300 more expensive than a V-6 4WD Escape XLT Sport, based on Kelley Blue Book New Car Blue Book Price, but nearly $6,000 less than Toyota's Highlander Hybrid SUV. This sophisticated hardware and technology remains expensive, for both the automaker and the buyer, and the price difference will take many years, even at current high gas prices, to recover in fuel cost savings alone. But it will do everything the gas-powered model will do about as well—except match the V-6's available 3,500-lb. towing capacity. And it will make you feel good about your small, personal contribution to environmental responsibility, and especially good each time you pass a gas pump. (www.fordvehicles.com)