Overview

What's New for 2012:

• The Ford Escape is a carryover for 2012, with an all-new model scheduled for the 2013 model year

Exterior Features
The 2012 Ford Escape is a compact crossover, and is offered in five different trim levels. All Escapes are 4-door models with a rear hatchback. Sixteen-inch alloy wheels are standard, with larger wheels available in an optional Sport package.

Interior Features
The 2012 Ford Escape offers seating for up to 5 passengers. Base Escape models feature cloth upholstery, air conditioning, full power accessories, and cruise control. Upgraded trim levels are fitted with automatic headlights, Ford's Sync audio interface, leather upholstery, navigation, and more.

Optional Features
Major options on the 2012 Ford Escape include navigation, premium audio, and automatic parking assist.

Under the Hood
Ford Escapes are fitted with one of three standard engines. Base Escapes feature a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine rated at 171 horsepower. The optional engine is a 3.0-liter V-6 rated at 240 horsepower. The standard transmission is a 5-speed manual and is only offered in the base trim. The other gasoline models are fitted with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Escape Hybrid model features a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine mated to an electric motor for a total system power of 177 horsepower. The Escape Hybrid features a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Ford Escape models are offered with both front- and all-wheel drive powertrains.

Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy figures for the 2012 Ford Escape are:

• Ford Escape with 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder gasoline engine: 21/28 mpg (city/highway)
• Ford Escape with 3.5-liter V-6 engine: 18/23 mpg (city/highway)
• Ford Escape Hybrid with gasoline-electric powerplant: 34/31 mpg (city/highway)

Safety
Standard safety features of note on the 2012 Ford Escape include full-length side curtain air bags and front-seat side air bags. In government crash tests, the 2012 Ford Escape received an overall rating of 3 (out of 5) stars, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Escape received a "Good" rating-the Institute's highest-for frontal-offset and side-impact crash protection. Roof strength results from the Institute were "Marginal."