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To help encourage safe teen driving, Escape Hybrid also comes standard with the Ford-exclusive MyKey system. Parents simply program the vehicle key through the message center to incorporate features such as:

• Limited top speed of 80 mph
• Traction control system that limits tire spin cannot be deactivated
• Audio system volume limited to 44 percent of maximum volume
• A speed alert chime at 45, 55 or 65 mph

All Escape models come with an Anti-lock Brake System and Ford's exclusive AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control). The only available electronic stability control system with two gyroscopic effect sensors, AdvanceTrac with RSC measures vehicle motion about both the yaw and roll axes.

Technology Improves Confidence while Parking, Driving

The class-exclusive Active Park Assist system uses sensors on the front and rear of the vehicle, working in conjunction with Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS), to guide the vehicle into a parking space. Here's how it works:

• The driver activates the system by pressing an instrument panel button, which activates the ultrasonic sensors to measure and identify a feasible parallel parking space
• The system then prompts the driver to accept the system assistance to park
• The steering system then takes over and steers the vehicle into the parking space hands-free. The driver still shifts the transmission and operates the gas and brake pedals
• A visual and/or audible driver interface advises the driver about the proximity of other vehicles, objects and people and provides instructions
• While the steering is all done automatically, the driver remains responsible for safe parking and can interrupt the system by grasping the steering wheel

EPAS can also control steering characteristics that enhance drive quality. An example found on 2011 Ford Escape Hybrid is Pull-Drift Compensation, a software-based technology designed to help drivers offset vehicle pulling or drifting that can occur in steady crosswinds or on uneven roads.

Using sensors, EPAS constantly measures the steering input applied by the driver to maintain the vehicle's path; it continually resets to adapt to changing road conditions or the vehicle turning a corner. Ford's pull-drift software technology gives the EPAS system the added ability to compensate for slight steering torque changes caused by environmental factors such as road crowning or steady crosswinds.

"If you're on the expressway and the road is crowned to the left or right for better water drainage, for example, you may need to make a slight steering compensation for that crowning," said Brian Kosztowny, Ford Vehicle Dynamics development engineer. "With Pull-Drift Compensation, the EPAS system gradually will dial in steering assist for easier steering in these conditions without the driver feeling it in his or her fingers or needing to make an extra effort. The electric motor does more, so you don't have to."

More Choices for Hybrid Buyers

Escape Hybrid for 2011 expects to continue its claim as America's most fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly SUV, based on 2010 EPA estimates.

Hybrid models use a 2.5-liter I-4 designed to run on the Atkinson combustion cycle. An advanced engine processor enables nearly imperceptible transitions between gas and electric vehicle mode, and hybrid models also feature a powertrain damping system to reduce vibrations and feedback to the driver and other vehicle occupants.

The Escape Hybrid Limited is packaged for environmentally conscious buyers who still want a full complement of accessories and equipment. Along with its gas counterpart, the Escape Hybrid Limited features 16-inch bright machined aluminum wheels and exterior chrome accents, a standard six-speaker audio system, chrome and ebony interior touches and a luxury and convenience package that includes ambient lighting, heated front leather seating surfaces, a power moonroof, reverse sensing system, rearview camera and universal garage door opener.

Escape Hybrid scores in both comfort and sustainability with its eco-friendly seats. The seats include soy-based foam that substitutes for petroleum-based products to conserve limited resources and reduce CO2 emissions. Eco-friendly seat fabrics made from 100 percent postindustrial recycled materials also are offered.

Ford Escape Hybrid: Photo Gallery, Review (1/2) and Specifications