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:

• 

  New England Ownership after 1 year, 2 Mo - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By GuzziAlfa - April 30 - 11:56 am

  I will echo much of the positive remarks about this vehicle although the one thing that is inconsistent between reviewers is mileage. In New England the weather is so variable by season that I actually charted my mileage for each fill up. In winter months with heat and electric seat heaters I could get 22 - 24 mpg. In the spring I shot back up to 30 mpg. Max mileage reached was 31.5 and that was only 3 times. The economy mode button helps by cutting out the engine at traffic lights so blowers will still work but not AC or heat. Thats ok for short pauses. The one thing inconsistent is the HEV or hybrid display of mileage - it is always higher than reality by 1.5 - 2.5 miles.

• 

  Best for the money right now - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By woooosh - April 26 - 1:30 pm

  I picked up my 2007 hybrid last week and love it. Its a little more noisy that my Mercedes ML320 was but a lot quieter than our Nissan Xterra. I got $500 off the sticker which is rare given the demand for these. The only thing I dont like is the lack of a satellite radio option on the high-end navigation/radio system. Oh well. I think there will be a lot of other SUV hybrids soon so this car is to hold me a few years until something I like comes out. I wasnt going to shell out $60K for the Lexus hybrid.

• 

  Not for Houston - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By MG - April 5 - 2:20 am

  Car is generally OK. Gas mileage less than advertised -- no surprise -- but far better than my SUV we traded in. Interior has little storage and few amenities. Air conditioning compressor shuts down when the car is powered by the electric motor only, causing extreme discomfort in Houston summer traffic jams and at stop lights. Can get around it by going to Max AC manually, but then youre on the gas engine, considerably reducing gas mileage. This is not a car for hot, humid climates.

• 

  2006 Ford Escape - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Pete Hunt - March 30 - 11:23 pm

  Gas mileage is not as great as expected but my previous Ford was an F-150 (V-8) so it was an improvement in the pockets.

• 

  108K and Still going strong - 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By jas74 - March 29 - 4:15 pm

  I purchased my 2009 escape hybrid from my company fleet department. It was driven by a colleague of mine for 99K. I took it to Ford for the 100k service, all it needed was spark plugs, cabin filters and Oil Change! Are you kidding me? She said the hybrids have less wear and tear than a normal ICE (Internal Combustion Engine). Yeah the handling and performance is not of a BMW X5, but how about that reliability! and 33-35MPG that I get consistently. Oh and the 100k service $400 bucks at the dealer. Not bad

• 

  Great Car.... but - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By phdmam - March 6 - 5:41 am

  I got it new and have been saving money on gas every mile I drive it. I have done my math, and save a gallon for every gallon of gas I use. Cons...-- Tires do not last long, on my 3rd set at 80k. Front end suspension is a problem - just fixed all my tie rods (the were old and torn) (I have had 20 year old Hondas with 175k and never changed a tie rod). Just changed my 2nd tone (ABS sensor) rings because they are exposed to the elements and break from rust. Overall, great car, no expenses to change antifreeze yet, no expenses for transmission fluids (lifetime). My kids are of driving age, and I think I will get another FEH

• 

  Very nice overall - mileage isnt great - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By TJ - February 23 - 6:00 am

  For an AWD vehicle, gas mileage is good. However, it is not going to blow you away, especially when you compare it to hybrid sedans. I am averaging 27- 29.5 mpg mixed city/highway driving after 2 tanks. Going 75 on the hwy = 23mpg. AWD works well. I felt no slippage during the most recent snow. Performance is smooth for an SUV. I cant burn off the line, but it is a hybrid and that is to be expected. Navigation package is great and worth it if you hate getting lost and arguing of directions. Audiophile Sound system is good quality. Standard recycled premium seat fabric is good quality. Dash and doors are plastic, though they do appear to be sturdy and thick.

• 

  2009 The Best Hybrid on Earth. - 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Jim F. - February 22 - 11:23 am

  I drive it like a Mustang. I put 20" chrome wheels on. I drive 60 miles per day, half highway at about 80 mph. City driving is fantastic, electric motor up to 40mph 4 wheeel drive cuts mpg but I average 28 mpg for the 600 miles driven

• 

  Great little hybrid - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Cindy - February 19 - 10:30 pm

  Have only owned this vehicle for 4 months and 4,000 miles, but so far we are very satisfied. After reading a lot recently about inflated MPG ratings, I was a little worried, but so far we are getting 30-31 mpg which is exactly what its supposed to get! We love the way it handles and accelerates and the display almost teaches you how to drive for maximum MPG. The nav system is great and the dogs love the room in back. Weve gone on one road trip and have used the AWD a few times already with great results. Ford really should build more of these vehicles and do a lot better job of advertising, many people dont even know they exist and some still think they have to be plugged in at night!

• 

  First hybrid owner - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By TONY M. - February 16 - 9:03 am

  It was the price that got us in the door. Then it was the vehicle, and good salesmanship that kept us there. We drove our Escape Hybrid from Spearfish to Rapid City, and we knew that we had made the right decision. My wife says "It is quiet & relaxing like Grandmoms Studebaker".