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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  Hybrid adventure - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Alex - June 16 - 3:53 pm

  Bought my Ford Escape Hybrid in December 2005 - including luxury package (because I wanted the sunroof). Excellent comfort for me (6"5" - 240lb) and fun to drive - I regularly get 33 mpg around town. Less mpg (28 - 29) on highway, especially when pulling my small boat when it can be as low as 24. However, to get good mileage around town you have to drive carefully - no gunning away from lights etc.

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  Save gas, save planet and looking good too - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By 4Mom 2go - May 3 - 11:10 pm

  I traded in my 02 Eddie Bauer Explorer for 07 Escape hybrid. I doubled my mileage. Love the NAV system and real time gas mileage gauge. Keeps me from being a lead foot. Avg 31 mpg in mixed driving. The key is no rabbit starts and using less brake and more coasting to get to a red light I like exterior of 07, but the interior of the 08. Buttons and gauges are placed better in the 08. Also 08 has better nooks for interior storage. Butexterior styling of the 07 is more to my taste. The 08 exterior seems like a throwback to the late 90s Explorers, especially with its grille. Overall very pleased with my purchase, including the mpg and acceleration.

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  Great car! - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By jmd - April 6 - 12:10 am

  Ive only had my 08 Hybrid Escape for 3 weeks but so far it has been great. Im getting better than average mileage and have no complaints. It is fun to drive and easy to manuever in DC traffic. I traded in an 06 Honda Odyssey due to terrible gas mileage. Nothing but positives so far.

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  2nd 2007 Escape Hybrid, going strong - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By draidr1 - March 25 - 7:09 am

  Background: Bought a used 2007 Escape Hybrid at a dealership still under warranty and it was an excellent purchase. Great Gas mileage, excellent handling, roomy, good use of storage. Sadly, it was totaled in wreck caused by driver not paying attention while on a cell phone. I turned around and bought the same model, same year Escape Hybrid because I loved it. Both vehicles have been excellent for me throughout the years and besides the maintenance costs, Ive had minimal costs except for a pricey emissions sensor that went out on me recently. Ive taken care of it and its taken care of me.

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  SUV With Economy Of Sedan - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Mark - March 17 - 3:20 pm

  We wanted a large vehicle for a family of four but also wanted the economy of a small vehicle and the peace of mind of low emissions. The Escape Hybrid meets all of these requirements. With the exception of low quality interior cloth, it is a well sealed, very comfortable roomy ride for my 6 foot 4 inch frame. With the spacious second row seating and huge cargo area we can easily accommodate our family for comfortable road trips. Current average MPG is 29.5, as indicated on the fuel economy/navigation screen. My only concern is all the computer and electric motor technology. Repairs are likely to be expensive if/when needed, but the extended warranty helps with overall piece of mind.

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  Great SUV - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By scott - February 5 - 9:30 pm

  Excellent all around vehicle with great versatility and real world fuel economy. Much better than any other competitor I looked at in terms of a complete package for the price.

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  Good Car - 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By BettyH - January 11 - 3:10 pm

  This car is very nice. I live in the hilly pacific northwest and the AWD is flawless, making the ride fill easy. Exelnt Fuel Economy and the Parrel park assist just add to the list. I have rear ended people 4 cars last year and have yet to do any now with this tool.

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  Love the 2007 Design vs 2008 Design - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By KarlS - December 16 - 5:40 pm

  We looked at the 2008 sneak-peek pics and the LA auto show write-ups & pics, but we decided we liked the 2007 interior/exterior design best because it looks less truck-like than the new designs. My wifes the primary driver, and she loves this vehicle. In the first 500 miles, neither of us have any buyers remorse.

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  2007 Ford Escape Hybrid FWD w/ leather and navigation - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By keremnathan - December 7 - 2:06 am

  We just purchased a new FEH in Houston. We went with the premium package with the silver exterior. Overall, it looks great inside and out. The ride is comfortable, great at handling the uneven and unpredictable city streets. I wouldnt recommend it for off-road use or for towing. We traded in a 2.8L Audi A4 which was a great drivers car, very difficult to accelerate modestly. The FEH actually encourages the driver to accelerate and brake slowly to keep the gas engine off and reduce fuel consumption. Overall, our initial impression has been positive.

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  Bulletproof after 65,000 - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By peter - November 19 - 9:36 am

  Comfortable and quiet, except for the buzzy engine when you accelerate hard. 2 1/2 years old now and flawless. Averaging about 28 overall, about 26 highway and 32 around town. If youre coming from a high-powered vehicle, you may not be happy with the slight lag in acceleration when you need to accelerate hard, but thats the only flaw with the system. I have a light foot; its supposed to learn how you drive, so maybe those with a heavy foot wont have a lag. 100% trouble free, normal maintenance only, which is not expensive. Rides much better with the Goodyear SR-A tires I put on. OE Continentals were hard as a rock. Great snow car. A very satisfied owner. Thanks Ford.