On paper, it is the ideal hybrid scenario: use this new kind of powertrain in a gas-guzzling SUV, and bring clear skies and low fuel cost to thousands of families living in suburbia.

If only theory matched reality.
On the road, the 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid delivers 25 miles per gallon, lower than should be expected for a hybrid SUV that will cost people $30,000 to buy. Yes –- it is a great idea, and the future for hybrid technology. Yet there are other, slightly smaller SUVs costing far less that deliver as-good or better fuel economy, and as far as the environment goes, here’s the thing: the farther you can drive on a gallon, the better it is for the trees. The Ford Escape Hybrid is, indeed, a capable driver with enough power. But without the fun-to-drive element of the Accord Hybrid or the higher fuel savings of the Prius, the Ford Escape Hybrid’s powertrain simply doesn’t provide the same kind of value. Powered by a 133-horsepower, 2.3-liter inline four-cylinder engine and a 94-horsepower electric motor, the Ford Escape Hybrid puts a combined 155 horsepower on the road. Get-up-and-go is rated at 129 lb.-ft. of torque. Power is managed by a continuously variable transmission, designed to save more fuel than a traditional five-speed transmission. Ford’s own testing during Ford Five Hundred development showed, however, that a six-speed automatic transmission might offer similar levels of efficiency. Like the Toyota Prius, the Ford Escape Hybrid is a full hybrid and can actually motor to about 15 mph on electric power only –- a great benefit for commuters who must slog through traffic on a daily basis. On the road, all of this equipment comes together and creates a nice freeway cruising experience and more than enough power –- but sloppy handling, plenty of understeer and body roll.

Conclusion
Fun is worth something, it’s true. It's just no longer as valuable as 40-plus miles to the gallon. Blame the government, or the Oil Barons. Sadly for the Ford Escape Hybrid, it doesn't matter for a hybrid that is neither really fun nor really fuel-efficient. It just lands it with a thud down into last place.