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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  Feeling High End Green - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Andy Rosamilia - June 29 - 7:30 am

  It is everything I wanted and I feel so good about helping the environment. The mileage is still improving at 29.8 MPG. I have 4x4 for winter and offroad driving and the features are top shelf.

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  2008 Hybrid Escape - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Dad Fish - May 23 - 8:13 am

  I love this vehicle (I traded a Chevrolet Suburban), especially the gas mileage. It rides smoothly, has good torque for passing and merging, and is a pleasure to look at in the driveway. I miss the room of my Suburban - but not the terrible gas mileage (14-15 MPG). The one thing that I dont think was engineered well is the rear hatch and glass. It rattles and is not sound proofed well at all. Also, the door windows could have used better guides - they rattle in the door when you close it if they are not rolled all the way up. Other than those two minor gropes, this vehicle is designed well and built with quality workmanship. I would definitely buy it again.

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  Automotive Breakthrough - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Joseph - May 5 - 11:03 pm

  I purchased my 2008 last summer, and have no regrets. Weve had the orange wrench light come on a few times though. Although there were no observable problems, they had to replace cooling fans, motors, etc. I suspect the system detects potential problems quickly. I get around 37MPG in winter, and 33MPG in summer (with AC running most of the time (Tucson, AZ)). Theres a squeak sound coming from a motor somewhere. It sounds like a clutch engaging/disengaging. They repaired it once by replacing the AC motor, but it has returned. Im due for my 20k soon, so Ill have them check it at that time.

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  Love my AWD SUV hybrid - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By alicep - April 23 - 4:03 pm

  I traded in my 4.0 liter 2002 4X4 Ford Ranger for this SUV. I had stopped driving my truck because the gas mileage was 14mpg. I only drove it to the mountains and then three people didnt fit comfortably. I cant wait to take this in the snow. Ive had this vehicle 4 months and love it. Its so smooth and its fun trying to keep it on electric. But I miss peeling out like I did in my truck and no more doughnuts in the snow! The power took a little getting used to. It doesnt throw you back in the seat when you step on it, but it gets up and goes so smoothly you dont even notice the acceleration.

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  Way to Go Ford - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Bud - April 21 - 7:13 am

  About 6000 mi so far. 30.5 mpg on recent drive CT to FL, AC on all the way. Ford needs to build more of these, keep size the same, keep refinning, go plug in to increase mileage. Very quiet interior and roomy. Love it.

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  Mariner Hybrid - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Bob - February 17 - 11:46 pm

  I bought the 4WD Mercury Mariner Hybrid. I find it to be just a little nicer looking than the Escape. It is the same platform and averages 30 MPG. I now have 7K and no problems at all. It fits my family with 2 car seats in the back & still room for shopping or luggage in the back. Also it has front, side & roof air bags. These are great in the snow. As a pick up truck owner all my life I was quickly able to adjust to this little SUV.

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  Im Loving this Hybrid! - 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By lanie - January 26 - 8:06 am

  Ive had my 2010 Escape Hybrid for a month now, and I can not find anything wrong with it. I am getting 29.7 mpg city and hwy, which is wonderful! I bought a loaded truck off the lot, with Sirius, etc. I think it has everything it possibly can have on it. Id researched various other hybrids and SUVs, but decided for the value to go with the Escape.My son has had a regular escape for 5 years w/ no problems, which helped make my decision a lot easier to make. Now were both happy (altho hes been eyeing my hybrid alittle too closely...)

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  Ford Escape Hybrid Engineers made America proud - 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By nemakv - January 9 - 2:53 pm

  Too bad Ford engineers made America proud with the only utility plus fuel economy SUV that Toyota was not able to match by calibrating the hybrid engine to work only on electrical power in certain circumstances, while Ford managers discontinued this unique and most reliable Ford vehicle for 2013 model year. Ask New York police and city taxi, also San Francisco taxi service, which retired Escape hybrid SUV only after 300,000 miles without any major problem. Thats why its very difficult to find used 2009-2012 Escape Hybrid with lower miles for sale, owner keep this Escape model longer vs. unreliable non-hybrid Escape. Now Toyota released 2016 RAV4 hybrid and will be the only one non-luxury winning combination utility and fuel economy vehicle on todays market that the public most prefer, since Ford Escape hybrid is discontinued and its hard to find on used car market.

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  Best decision Ive made to date - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Rich Murphy - January 3 - 8:10 am

  Ive driven my Escape Hybrid for about a month and a half and for about 2000 miles. I love it! The quiet drive during electric only mode is the greatest. I have had my best mpg just this week. To work at 5 am in the morning I achieved 32.1 mpg. Wow! In the heat of the day going home it is still impressive at 28.9. (in traffic and the A/C on). The navigation system is really cool. My bro-in-law and I have named it/her "Jen". The radio and the CD is awesome. The paint job is excellent and the fit and finish is excellent as well. This "truck" rides like a fine car and handles great. I love the gas reminder telling how much the thing will go before empty. Id buy again in a heart beat.