I was getting 33-34 MPG right out of the box during my first few miles, and before I found sites like this and others that helped me do better. I also constantly think about how the FEH is operating, and what I can do to optimize operating conditions. My father borrowed my FEH for a week when I had a broken arm and couldn't drive, and he "just drove it" and got 36-37 MPG in mild, September weather conditions.

Out of ALL hybrids on the market, the Ford Escape Hybrid is the 2nd best Hybrid on the market as far as delivering what is promised, delivering 95% of EPA results for most drivers. ( but drivers who choose to report, of course )

The Honda Insight is the only hybrid that regularly meets or beats EPA fuel economy... and I think it is only the manual transmission one.

I'm still getting 33 MPG, even during the worst blizzard conditions in the Denver area in 90 years. ( 2nd worst December in history ) Just got 5" more snow at my house today... current outside temp. is +2'F. Takes a bit more gas to "warm up" now, but then still gets 29-30 MPG when warmed up.

-John