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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  Escape Hybrid hits the mark - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Kpick - June 17 - 9:43 am

  I picked up my 2008 Escape Hybrid one week ago. First impressions are excellent. Gas mileage is 36 mpg in mostly city driving. The leather interior is well done. The build quality is flawless. I traded a 2005 Honda Accord because I needed more interior room and better gas mileage. The Escape gave me both. Time will tell if the reliability will match Honda.

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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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  2008 Escape Hybrid Impression - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Terry - May 25 - 9:33 am

  I took another look at the Escape Hybrid because it is supposed to be improved in many ways, ride/handling in particular. Those factors, and the relatively cheap feel of the interior for the price, is why I didnt get one before. My impressions after a couple of weeks with my new 2008 are positive. Its much quieter. The handling, while still somewhat truck-like, is better sorted than the prior model. Its reasonably roomy and practical and gets great mileage. I was skeptical at first, but it really is a Have Your Cake and Eat It Too sort of vehicle.

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  Why did they scew up th enterior - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Seadog9 - May 15 - 2:50 am

  I replaced my 3 year old Escape with the 08 Hybrid. I immediately was disappointed with the interior changes. The heated seat button is on the side of the seat where you cant see it. You have to feel for it. The took out many of the little storage places and the center console/arm rest is hard to open when driving. The gas mileage is good, not great but good and it is a little quieter inside on the highway than my old one. I am very disappointed over all.

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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 Technology...horrible marketing. - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By geeemman - April 18 - 10:30 pm

  I looked at every Hybrid SUV and was convinced that the Ford Escape had the best technology for me. I wanted a Hybrid that the gasoline engine would turn off and it would run off batteries when possible. The Ford Escape was the ONLY SUV that would. I was surprised. What I hated was dealing with Ford! They make you take this very expensive and cheesy interior option package if you want an extra airbag. I think the option package added on an extra $3000! I was robbed ... especially when I found out that they downgraded the CD player from a 6 CD changer standard, to a single CD. Of course Id already paid before Id noticed. What a rip off!

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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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  1st American Car in 25 years and Im Happy - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By GuitarGuy - March 29 - 12:26 pm

  Ive had the Escape for 2 weeks and its performing as advertised. I got over 30mpg on the first tank of gas, and that will improve. The 15 minute MPG gauge has shown as high as 37mpg. If I were to complain about performance it would be the body roll when cornering, but this is a SUV with a high center of gravity and a little body roll is to be expected. The GPS/radio is disappointing. Small screen, and the CD changer is under the seat. Sound quality is average, and no iPod connection. It does otherwise work properly. If GPS/radio is important to you, might wait to see the 2008 upgrade. It wasnt a deal-breaker for me, but Ford could do better. Improve this and its a 10.

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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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  I got the lemon - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By tkr2good - March 25 - 3:00 am

  I bought the car 8/31. The ABS brakes went out on 9/3. Dealer had car till 9/7. I drove it one more day and now 9/9, its back at the dealership for same problem. The 3 days I drove it was very nice. My challenge was running entirely on the electric motor. I bought the cheapest model and got it for $1000 under MSRP. "Never pay sticker or mark up!"