I think the biggest flaw of the Escape/Mariner Hybrids has got to be the fact that the ICE must start and run EVERY time you turn on the vehicles. I simply don't understand the purpose of this "feature". I understand the intent behind it....bringing the catalytic converter up to temp in order to reduce emissions, but to me it seems like this is counterproductive for many drivers. For me, most of my trips are very short stop and go runs....often with several stops. Since most of my driving is in EV mode, I am burning fuel to warm up a CAT which I am barely going to use, and on top of that, since the CAT is cold anyway, I am also poluting more! Then, even though the CAT is probably still up to temp after I run into the dry cleaners....the ICE still has to start up and waste fuel and polute. I don't get it. Why not only warm up the CAT when you need it? What about an electric heater coil of some kind to pre-heat the CAT?

I assume the mystical "EV only mode" of the foreign Prius allows those drivers to avoid this weakness in essence. I just wish we would have that option here where it makes sense. While we are at it, why not let us plug in our hybrids? I'm not talking about an extended battery kit that costs $8k....just let me plug in my hybrid when I get home so that when I pull out the next morning I have a full charge? I mean, I know I'm not the only one who pulls into their garage with only a sliver of green left on their battery display....

-Tim

2006 Mercury Mariner Hybrid AWD
Black with Pebble interior
Premium Package with Nav & Moonroof



Current ODO: 26,152
Typical Drive: 20 min crosstown in heavy traffic (3.5mi there and back twice a day)


532 Gallons of gas saved
That's 10,642 lbs less CO2 emitted