Overview & Reviews

The Escape Hybrid was not only the first mainstream hybrid SUV to be produced but also the first to come from a domestic automaker. Visually identical to its non-hybrid counterpart, the Escape Hybrid offered acceleration approaching that of the V6 model but with the fuel economy of the four-cylinder Escape.

There were two generations of the Ford Escape Hybrid, with the latter benefitting from a more modern design, easier-to-use controls and the ability to operate its air-conditioner whether the gas engine was running or not, unlike earlier versions. When the Escape was completely redesigned for 2013, a hybrid was not included in the lineup. Those looking for a used compact crossover with a small fuel appetite, however, would be well served by the Ford Escape Hybrid.

Most Recent Ford Escape Hybrid
The second-generation Escape Hybrid was produced from 2008 through 2012. The body adopted Ford's newer styling themes seen in the Edge and Expedition, while the cabin was updated and featured more ergonomic and attractive controls.

Ford's optional Sync voice-controlled interface debuted for 2009, along with standard stability control and a slightly larger (2.5 liter versus 2.3) gasoline engine that boosted combined output to 177 horsepower (up from 155 hp). For 2010 Ford introduced an automated parallel-parking system. That year also saw a new electric compressor for the air-conditioning that allowed A/C use at any time. Previously, the A/C would annoyingly shut off whenever the Escape's gas engine was off (such as when the SUV was stopped at a light or moving at low speeds on just electric power.)

The powertrain consisted of a four-cylinder gasoline engine, a pair of electric motors and an electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Under full acceleration, both power sources work together and make the Escape Hybrid quicker than the regular four-cylinder Escape. But under lighter load conditions, such as during stop-and-go traffic, the Escape Hybrid switched between the two, oftentimes running purely on battery power alone.

Fuel efficiency is impressive for a hybrid SUV of this time period, as a front-wheel-drive Escape Hybrid typically delivers close to 30 mpg in real-world driving. All-wheel-drive models were also offered.

There were two trim levels for the Escape Hybrid: base and Limited. The base version came with 16-inch alloy wheels, full power accessories, a power driver seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, the Sync system, stability control, antilock brakes, front seat side airbags and side curtain airbags. Upgrading to the Limited added a sunroof, rear parking assist, leather upholstery and heated front seats and mirrors. A touchscreen navigation system was optional and came with a premium audio system. The Limited could also be equipped with an automatic parallel-parking system.

The main difference between driving an Escape Hybrid and driving a regular Escape comes down to handling. The Hybrid feels top-heavy around turns due to its extra 300 pounds of curb weight. And like the gasoline-only Escape (and most other compact crossovers, for that matter), this hybrid ute is geared more toward providing sure-footed foul-weather driving than it is to tackling seriously rugged terrain.

Past Ford Escape Hybrid Models
The first-generation Ford Escape Hybrid debuted for 2005 and ran through 2007. The regular Escape dawned four years earlier. The original powertrain featured a 2.3-liter gasoline engine that, together with its electric motor, produced a total of 155 hp.

Although this original iteration is similar in terms of size and driving dynamics to the generation that followed, it had a substandard interior filled with cheap, hard plastic surfaces and outdated controls. Additionally, the Premium package's navigation system was rather primitive and should be avoided. Apart from the availability of a moonroof for 2006, the next couple of years saw no changes.

User Reviews:

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  I bought the other lemon - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Sarahfromsc - April 11 - 12:43 am

  I traded in a Lincoln Continental over Labor Day weekend and have had it in the shop twice already. While on a trip I had the electrical hazard warning light come on, and thus far, Ford has flown up engineers to look at the vehicle to no avail. It makes an ungodly whiny/grindy noise when moving forward. I cant fill the gas tank up completely, and the RPMs went crazy while on my trip. The transition between gas and electric is not seamless, and sometimes the electric motor does NOT kick in when going under 25 mph or at stop lights, etc. I believe in the Hybrid, wanted it, gave up lots that I had with the Lincoln but I do believe I got a lemon. I just want one that works!

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  Hybrid Issues to Consider - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By K. Smith - February 25 - 11:46 am

  As a just past owner of a 06 Ford Escape hybrid, I would ask anyone looking into the hybrid models 06 & 07 to have your eyes open and understand the issues I found on my hybrid. Air Conditioning: You loose your A/C when you are traveling under 25 MPH, unless you go to Max Air, This makes the gas motor run all the time and why did you buy a hybrid ? Per factory this is how it was designed and live with it or find somthing else. I did I moved to a new Edge. I never did get the suggested mileage, I average around 31 MPG on freeway, trade in value wasnt as good as my Ford sales person suggested (My fault to listen to sales person) No sour grapes, just beware !

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  If a do-over, would not buy - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By 1driver3 - February 4 - 4:07 pm

  My 2006 Ford Hybrid with only 30,543 miles needs major repairs. First it was new tires, replacing those the car came with. So, at 30,000 miles I got 4 new tires. The car now has a bad rear end differential which can not be repaired but must be replaced to the tune of at least $2k, maybe more they say. No warranty, very low miles but 5 years old. I was told by the dealership that Ford and the dealership dont have the same level of customer service/loyalty because of the economy! We have probably purchased our last Fords. I may trade in but definitely not for another Ford!

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  Not As Expected - Not So Hybrid - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By J. Weisner - January 20 - 9:40 am

  I got a pre-owned thinking most problems been solved. There still are, the infamous squeaks at the battery area, loose and squeaky front airbag. Consumption is great below 30mph, not at the hiway. Comfortable ride anyhow. Bad attendance for recalls, not all techs knows about hybrid. Power window switch fails, not just on my Escape but on my Focus as well.

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  Major Repair After 41K - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By matt2007 - November 16 - 9:00 pm

  After 1 year, 9 months (41,200 miles) and two recall notices, my 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid AWD had a transfer case break. The transfer case was back ordered for at least two weeks. In my opinion, a all wheel drive SUV should not have major repairs with just 41,000 miles. This is especially true because Ford has had a reputation of good and sturdy cars. I had been very please with the other 5 Ford Vehicles that I have owned (3 new, 2 used). I encourage anyone to consider very carefully my experience before they purchase a Ford.

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  Mine lost its breaks 4 times - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By IHATEFORD - April 25 - 3:40 pm

  My escape hybrid has had complete break failure 4 time in two years and 3 times in 3 weeks. Ford cant figure out what the problem is. They replaced the master breaking cylinder and while road testing the car, the breaks went out on them. Ford headquarters also takes no responsibility for the breaks and has basically told me I had to deal with the problem. I asked that they put in writing that the car is safe to drive when the repairs are finally done, but they refuse to do that saying it would be fraudulent since Ford doesnt do the repairs, Ford "dealers" do the repairs.

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  Terrible fuel mileage - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By GI JOE - February 18 - 4:03 am

  I average 21 mpg with a best of 24.3. I brought the SUV into Ford and they claim it gets 31.3mpg. I had an independent garage test it and it was 21 mpg. I checked it manually, and the on board PC fuel is on the money, 21 mpg. I have the AWD model and no matter what I do or how much I baby it I cannot get better than 24.3. The engine runs if any accessories are on. The engine also kicks in after 25 mph and right away if any upgrade. Overall I like the Escape hybrid, but I feel cheated after paying an extra $12,000 to be green. Figure 20% less mileage off EPA listing and the nav stinks. Maybe Ford should see what Toyota is offering. I own 2 new Fords but dont think I will again.

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  Escape to a Minnesota Winter - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Minnesota Mark - November 23 - 12:33 am

  I purchased the Escape Hybrid AWD for two reasons - exhaust emissions and fuel economy. I will assume the emissions are meeting my expectations. The fuel economy? Nowhere near the ratings of 33/29 for city/highway. During this mild Minnesota winter I am only getting around 23 mpg. Granted it’s better than the 16 mpg I got in the winter with my 2003 Chevy Trailblazer LTZ, but the Hybrid is much less of a vehicle than the Trailblazer. I will say that the Escape with its front-wheel drive tracks better in snow than the Trailblazer. For my first hybrid vehicle the Escape is adequate.

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  Should have bought the Highlander - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Disappointed - April 4 - 9:33 am

  I read all the reviews, drove most vehicles in this SUV/truck market and bought the escape because of the mileage and tales of better performance. Im not getting it, only 25 mpg. Im here to tell you buy a Toyota Highlander IF: you live out west and travel faster then 60, you want more cargo space and a better interior with more convience or you have anything to tow or haul. The 4 cyl gas engine and weak electric just dont cut it, it has to run at too high RPMs above 60 mph to deliver the mileage; in Montana the limit is 75! Last trip at that speed I got 22 mpg! Very disappointed! Everything else I read about it both good & bad has been listed by others; especially plug it in.

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  why is my gas mileage so poor? - 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By sladams - October 11 - 5:53 pm

  I recently purchased a used 2009 escape hybrid 2wd with 42000 miles on it. I think it was probably a fleet car. Its in good shape but Im only getting 25 miles to the gallon with combined city/hwy driving. And, the gas tank only seems to take 11 gallons when I believe it has a 15 gallon tank. I know its hot and the aircon has to be on but isnt that still pretty low mileage? Kind of wishing I had bought a new non-hybrid for the same money now. Any info/suggestions would be helpful in making me feel like I made a decent purchase. thanks