Listen carefully to what Ford says about performance, and you will quickly hear the whine of a smaller engine: The powertrain provides 0-60 acceleration performance comparable to the 200-horsepower V6 engine in the conventional Escape.

Ah. Yes.
The acceleration is, indeed, remarkable for a hybrid - and an SUV at that. Step on the gas when the light turns green and you barely notice the smooth hybrid-combustion exchange. But comparable is a big word - and it covers a lot of ground. Consider that the Escape Hybrid has combined power ratings of 155 horsepower and 124 lb. ft. of torque. Together with the electric-assist steering and the CVT, you get a creamy cakewalk of a ride.

That's nice, seeing as just about everybody likes cake. Most people also like it when they can get from one place to another in comfort, and at the least possible cost per trip. In that way, the 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid delivers. When it comes to stop-and-go traffic, errand driving and suburb commuting, the Escape Hybrid saves money and serves as a capable and comfortable valet. But before you buy into the idea that the 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid is as good a performer as a regular-strength and comparably-priced Escape with a V6 engine, consider the weight variance - over 300 lbs. - and combine it with a horsepower disadvantage of 45 and a towing inequity of around 2,500 lbs. The difference is noticeable when you travel up steep hills or need power under load. The vehicle pulls through just fine, but you can hear that little four-beater start to complain, even though the powertrain utilizes the electric motor to help with acceleration under load. The optional 4WD system is able to get you down a rutted dirt path, and maybe a bit more - but should not be confused as a full range 4WD system.

Altogether, the Ford Escape Hybrid is like a fat boy riding a pony. Probably should think twice about galloping up that hill, but a perfectly wonderful experience for around-the-town prancing.