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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  Ford Got This One Right - 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Ed - March 17 - 7:26 pm

  I ordered this vehicle back in June and finally received it January 19, seven months later. It was worth the wait. I have bought many of Ford’s trucks, thunderbirds and other models in the last 30 plus years, but this is the most fun to drive. I have about 4000 miles on this so far and by learning to hyper-mile, I have been able to get up to 35 mpg per tank, driving in the foothills of SC. The technology in this SUV is great.

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  Fine Vehicle Even in Houston - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By CG - February 27 - 6:53 am

  I was nervous about purchasing new automotive technology but I have been completely satisfied by the reliability and performance of the Ford Escape Hybrid. As another reviewer noted, in hot humid climates like Houston where use of MAX AC is mandatory, the gas engine runs, reducing gas mileage. For the other 5 months of fall/winter/spring that we have, the SUV is blast! All year round it performs like a 6 cylinder SUV. The exterior and interior finishes are of good quality.

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  Fun to drive, great mileage! - 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Mari - January 30 - 1:53 am

  I am almost at 5,000 miles with my 10 Escape Hybrid. I love this truck! Im averaging between 31.2 - 31.8 mpg so far. I love the Sirius radio, the back- up camera, the chrome, the comfort, the moonroof, the handling, the get-up and go, the leather, I love it all. I traded in a Tribeca Subaru for this. I wished I had done it sooner, but I saw this truck on the lot and was able to negotiate with the kind folks at the dealership. My son had purchased a regular Escape from them back in 05 and has enjoyed his truck and working with the same nice sales staff. This truck is fun to drive, looks sporty, carries more than you can imagine, and saves me $$$ on gas. Whats NOT to like?

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  Weve parked the other cars - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By RuralParish - January 23 - 7:53 am

  Id driven over a dozen Escapes as rental vehicles while on business travel and never had one that wasnt tight, solid and reliable. Ordered an AWD version after driving a 2wd. We got an outstanding vehicle! We use the Hybrid for almost everything and living 35 miles from the city, weve racked up 10,000 miles in 5 months. The car eats up the awful country roads and is smooth and quiet on the highway.

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  I love my hybrid and heres why - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By spacefan - January 14 - 1:43 am

  First, if you have the fuel/electric usage interface for the navigation system you know what your mileage is and can adjust your driving style. Second, the system provides an average miles per gallon, not the actual miles per gallon. Third, check your tire pressure every two weeks to ensure proper inflation--it is amazing what effect properly inflated tires have on gas mileage. Fourth, with the exception of a recall on the electronics for the big battery (and the need to replace the big battery), this vehicle has been wonderfully reliable even in really cold weather (keep in mind the battery starts the engine). Lastly, during the worst of the gas crisis I was smiling all the way to the bank!

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  a disaster, my last ford - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By jbencheck - January 8 - 2:23 am

  Bought this in Sept 2012 used, private party, 60k miles. Clean carfax, looked immaculate, came back good from the mechanic, and went forward. Summary of repairs then til 7/2014, off the top of my head: Brake issues, bad ring - $400 March 2013 CV joint - $800 May 2013 Hybrid-component water pump/fan - $1600 July 2013 Rear-end rebuild completely - $2000 May 2014 TSB on wiring harness, $240, then brake light still on so ABS module. This is where I walked. They wanted $3400 for the part alone. I traded it in at 86k miles 7/2014. Ridiculous. Hardest part was, yeah, it was a bad car,but Ford, not their corporate, not their dealership, no one would do anything to help whatsoever.

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  Fully loaded hybrid - 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By charv - December 24 - 3:40 am

  My first hybrid coming from a Nissan Titan. Very surprised by the seamless handoffs between Atkinson engine and electric motors surprising power and responsiveness. I was expecting a gutless vehicle you scoot around it but it has exactly enough power for highway, city driving. My loaded Limited has navigation system, auto park assist for parallel parking, remote start were my added features. The leather interior is comfortable and loving the heated seats and how fast the heater warms up. I dont have a problem with the brakes theyre very good for me unlike the 2009 reports. Sync is outstanding bar none under rated how good it is.....way better than my Parrot mki9200 bluetooth.

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  BEST car purchase Ive ever made! - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Selena - November 21 - 5:13 pm

  Traded in our 2002 Escalade for the 2006 Escape; the best decision (car- wise) weve ever made. VERY fun to drive and outstanding gas mileage. We were concerned about cargo space, given the fact that our previous vehicle was so large, but we have had no problems. Cute little SUV--I would recommend it to anyone. The first time we filled up with gas, it cost us $30, and we got more mileage with one tank than we EVER got for our previous car (which held 11 gallons more!). We love the fact that were saving on gas as well as doing our part to live a little greener.

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  First hybrid - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By TeichRA - November 15 - 7:03 pm

  The vehicle works as advertised. I find the mileage is a touch better than shown on the sticker.

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  I feel happy to drive - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By hilary - November 15 - 11:13 am

  I have switched from a Mazda 5 to this car to get a better seating a storage arrangement. I LOVE the fuel efficiency around town and feel great about my choice. Its not as fancy as my moms Prius with all the electronics, but getting 34 miles to 40 miles a gallon schlepping kids in a big car makes me smile every time I turn the key. I am proud to drive this car!