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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  Crazy if you dont buy one - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By 928s4t - December 17 - 4:46 am

  I am getting 35 miles a gallon, yet I am driving a SUV that is comfortable and looks good. It does not get better than that. I am looking to buy a second (used) Escape. No serious complaints, however, it would be nice if you could add the MP3 option to the factory Navigation/radio setup. The 2008 might be quieter, but I like the looks for the 2007 better.

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  Love this car - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By JeffInSd - November 28 - 6:23 pm

  Got rid of my tank (Chevy Avalanche) and purchased the Escape with 0% financing by Ford Motor Credit in CA ... what a deal! Finished off the first tank of gas at 32.4 mpg and Im sure it will only get better since I know how to drive it now to get the best mileage. I recommend putting a little distance between you and the car in front of you so you can coast start the car at lights. This will allow you to take advantage of the electric power for a greater amount of time.

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  Great little car - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By T.W. Seybold - November 12 - 12:36 pm

  Fun to drive, Plenty of power in the mountains. Comfortable seats especially in the rear with good vision out. Plenty of storage space and good mileage.

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  Love this car! - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By MT - October 23 - 6:53 pm

  We ordered our Escape and had to wait 1 week for delivery, loaded has everything possible. Sleek Black w/Chrome trim. Love the drive, roomy inside, and good gas mpg. Traded in Ford Eddie B. Escape and transition to Escape is seemless, only difference is Escape is much easier to drive, easy to steer and manuever, and park. Best decision I made in a long time.

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  Think Green! - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By laura_booth_us - October 13 - 10:26 pm

  I bought my Escape Hybrid because I commute 70 miles each way to work over mountains so I needed good MPG and reliability in bad weather conditions. Ive put about 8300 miles on it in a little over 2 months. MPG is good, but it is so much better in the city. Im getting about 28 avg on interstate with mountains, which is still awesome for a FWD. Also, I am making an attempt to save the environment! Thats really the best part. I love the interior and exterior is fresh and bold from the old style. I need the electrical outlet to use my laptop while I am working so I have gotten a lot of use from that. I like it more and more!

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  Ford Has A Big Hit With This One - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By parched - September 29 - 11:03 pm

  What I like best about this car is the feeling of total satisfaction I get. I never write reviews but this car has made me want to brag about it. Nothing but tens in all categories for it. Great handling and steering, fantastic sound system, quick response, great braking, great viewability and the backup warning system has proved to be a valuable asset. While the car was a little more expensive than a regular Escape, Im satisfied that the fuel savings will make up for it in less than 2 years. Oh wait! There is that nice little tax *credit* too! That chops payback to about 14 months. Topping it off, my 12 year old thinks Im kewl for going green. What is that worth?

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  Good Hybrid, but Room for Improvement - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Vince Fredrick - September 25 - 9:26 pm

  I traded in my 2001 Prius for a bit more room and to get "up" above the traffic a bit. Found the Escape to be a pretty good replacement (though about 15 mpg lower than the Prius). The Escape performs beautifully and rides well. I do feel a bit let down by the interior though. I got the Premium Package (recommended) to at least get some comfort items, but it is a far cry from the interior on my Eddie Bauer Expedition as far as useful design and layout. Doesnt have adequate storage for misc items in the driver area -- just the arm console.

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  It is easy being green! - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Mark - September 17 - 3:56 am

  This is a great little SUV! The hybrid system is awesome - having fun trying to see how many MPGs I can acheive!

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  Wife Loves Hybrid Escape - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Jerry - September 8 - 4:26 pm

  Owned new 2006 AWD for 1 month. 32-33 MPG city driving, 28 mpg highway in first 100 miles. 15 Gallon tank means 400+ miles between fills. Mileage is improving and 100% operation on electric motor below 40 MPH is increasing as vehicle is broken in. Wife is a former Passat-325E BMW driver - she loves how the Escape handles. Handles better than expected in high winds.

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  Loving my "Great Escape" - 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By TybeeNorthBeachGal - August 19 - 8:33 pm

  Im a brand new (proud) owner and so far am wowed by the car. I love driving and being up where I can see everything around me. I am thrilled with all the great toys from the sound system to Sync with hands free navigation and phone. I thought I would be overwhelmed by the technology but everything is easy to operate and intuitive. I am especially pleased with the gas mileage after "swapping" my inefficient German all-wheel drive for an American hybrid. The car is everything I hoped for and more.