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Old 04-10-2010, 09:17 AM   #17 (permalink)
jkp1187
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Quote:
Originally Posted by KITT222 View Post
Meet at the crossroads: the CUV, the SUV body on a car frame. Bit better MPG, larger vehicle, yet low-ish COG, so less likely for rollover. If they can, try to get a newer CUV, or brand-new Equinox, with 32 MPG HWY. Maybe try to convince them to get a large car, like something similar to a Ford Freestyle, or Ford Five-Hundred. Not horrid fuel economy, but better than SUV fuel economy. Or if they're bent on getting that SUV, convince them to get her an Escape hyrbid.
I think the fuel economy from an Escape Hybrid is great, but most of the reviews I've read always indicate that it still has the handling disadvantages of a usual SUV: poor braking performance and handing -- exacerbated by the extra weight of the batteries. (I suspect handling/braking will be worse in the hybrid than the regular internal combustion engine Escape because of that extra weight, so if safety is the ultimate goal, might as well just forego the hybrid.)

I kind of think the Escape Hybrid is for people who think SUVs are generally good personal vehicles, or who actually need a large vehicle to haul things/people, but hate the horrible fuel economy.

(DISCLAIMER: I have not personally driven a Ford Escape Hybrid yet; I have driven a regular Escape, though, and wasn't too impressed with its handling characteristics.)

Agree that a true car-style crossover like the Nissan Rogue would be better all around. Car-like handling and even car-like fuel economy (24 MPG combined.)
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