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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  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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  Not great in a cold climate - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By EyeOnAlaska - March 11 - 5:13 pm

  Bought my used 08 FEH awd for my move back to Alaska. Very disappointed with the mileage Im getting in a colder climate-averaging 21mpg all- around. Granted, thats ok for an SUV, but certainly doesnt live up to its billing. It very rarely goes into EV mode, and even when it does, the engine wont stay off sitting at a stoplight. This is in temperatures anytime below 20 F. Below 0 F, mpg drops into the mid teens and it sounds like a coffee grinder on steroids until it finally warms up. Almost a must to keep it in a heated garage. You have to be incredibly careful with the gas pedal to not kick it out of EV mode leaving a stoplight.

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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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  Dont believe the fuel estimate! - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Mark - January 31 - 7:53 pm

  The 2007 Hybrid FWD is rated at 36mpg in the city. Dont believe it! Almost all my driving is in the city. I get only 23-24mpg. Even turning the A/C off adds only 1mpg. The Ford dealer said it needed to be driven for 2,000-3,000 miles to be broken in before the mileage would improve. After 5,000 the mileage is still the same. I know you never get the rated mpg, but 30%+ less is fraud!

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  Florida fun - getting 30+ miles/gallon - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By flawill - January 19 - 3:16 am

  Rented a Prius for a day to "check" out the hybrids - was told that the Ford Escape was similar to the Toyota. Almost bought a Prius - but really wanted an SUV. Searched the internet for local dealer inventory; good experience, good salesman, good finance manager. I think showing up the last day of the month helped - with the Edmunds info in hand. Mileage in city is usually 32. Having trouble getting 30 MPG highway.

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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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  Disappointing, especially in cold weather - 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By akservices - January 2 - 3:24 am

  Ive had the car for almost three years, and am disappointed. The mileage numbers have never come close to the advertised numbers, and when its really cold (i.e., less than 0), the MPG plummets to 14 or 15. This is hardly better than our 1997 Ford Explorer. Friends who own Toyota Priuses have also reported lower MPG in the cold, but theirs go down to 30 MPG, from 40. Even when the temperature is "normal," meaning 60 to 70, and Im doing highway driving the best mileage Ive ever gotten out of the car is 27 MPG. In retrospect, I wish Id bought a non-hybrid and spent a lot less $$.

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  Great - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By rpecoraro - December 29 - 3:46 pm

  I have had this SUV for over a year now. Took it to Las Vegas in May averaged 26 mph going and 27 on the return trip over 4000 miles. Driving to and from work which is a 27 mile round trip I get 34 mpg, well over the 29 mpg on the sticker. On the downside in the winter I was only getting 25 mpg when it was below 30 degrees. I have not had any problems, just take it for oil changes. The book says every 10000 miles but I do it every 5000. Would buy it again.

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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.