Drivers Log.(News)(Product/Service Evaluation)

2005 Ford Escape Hybrid

Date in fleet: Aug. 19-26 As-tested price: $30,250 Powertrain: 2.3-liter I4/permanent magnet electric traction motor; fwd, CVT Output: 133 hp @ 6000 rpm (I4)/94 hp @ 3000-5000 rpm (electric motor), 129 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm Curb weight: 3620 pounds MPG (EPA combined/AW observed): 33.6/27.7

GRITZINGER: This may have been the ultimate Woodward Dream Cruiser. Before you start holding your belly and rolling on the floor laughing, consider this: Most of the time I spent stuck in the world's most glorious traffic jam, the gasoline engine was never running. Over the course of two visits to the cruise, the gas gauge never appeared to move. Try that with whatever heap of polished '60s scrap iron you want.

Yeah, yeah, I know, that's not the point of the cruise, but it is the point of the Escape Hybrid, which provides ample performance and decent economy in what used to pass for a reasonably sized SUV. The paint job is beautiful, the interior pleasant and functional for all occupants, the ride not too choppy and the handling downright sprightly-for a battery-laden tall ute, that is.

The best part: Aside from the badging and the battery vent built in the rear-quarter window, nobody would even notice this is a hybrid vehicle. For most people, including that buddy or relative whom you loan it to, the Escape Hybrid starts, drives and functions just like its gasoline-powered siblings.