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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  Fun To Drive - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By bjronca - March 16 - 7:10 am

  Best car I ever owned. You must buy the navigation system option. We got the Premium Package. Im glad we did. It came with all leather interior and heated seats which are great. Ill never buy another vehicle without heated seats and navigation system. The ride and handling is better than I expected.

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  Best car Ive ever owned - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Linda - March 2 - 9:53 pm

  I absolutely love this vehicle. It gets great gas mileage for an SUV (about the same as my 06 Hyundai Accent, which is a really small car). Its fun to see how much gas you can save. I love the sun roof and how much it brightens up the cabin. I only wish it had the navigation. The exterior is stylish and its a small SUV with a big look. Best car Ive ever purchased. Ill probably get another when this one dies. I hated Ford vehicles before this, now I think Ford is great!

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  Real owner comments - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By peaceman57 - March 2 - 8:53 pm

  Bought this feh from auction. Mine has 180k Miles on it now, and Ive seen some on auction with 220k miles. These auction are government Auctions where they drive highway miles and do the regular maintenance. I would say the vehicle is well designed. Though this vehicle has been quite reliable, I would recommend to buy a non hybrid Vehicle. If there is a need for a major repair, expect to pay more if you need to bring it to the Dealer.

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  Escape to hybrid SUVing! - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By rgg - February 23 - 4:30 am

  I had a 2001 Escape V6 AWD. Great car, but gas mileage was not very good. The Escape AWD gets a consistent 28mpg on the highway (thats at 60-80 mph with the a/c on), and about 24 mpg in town, with a full load. (No hybrid ever gets the advertised EPA mileage in town). Performance? Only imperceptibly less than the V6 gave me. Punching the gas and bringing in an extra 40hp from the electric motor lets me pass anyone on the highway. Some people tell me, "sure, you get great mileage, but is it worth the difference in price?" Yes. The difference is tax-deductible, and with gas costing $2.50/gallon, Ill be ahead soon. Also, Im reducing our nations reliance on questionable oil suppliers.

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  My "Green" Escape - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By T - January 26 - 3:40 pm

  I have been wanting a hybrid vehicle for years, but they have always been too small for my needs. The Ford Escape Hybrid is perfect for my life! Its very comfortable, everything is within reach, and its easy to get in and out. Im below average height, so this is frequently an issue. Theres enough room for everyone and the easy fold flat back seats are great for hauling our rather large dog. I do a lot of driving, so the gas savings is phenomenal, and I found that it performed like a "champ" in snowy weather last winter. As an added bonus, this has turned out to be more fun to drive than any vehicle Ive ever owned!

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  Synergy Drive Replaced at 15,000 miles! - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By aportele - January 21 - 10:56 pm

  Well, its in the shop already. Only 15,000 miles. The synergy drive failed and left me on the side of the road. Who knows how long it will take to fix. Stuck with a Focus for part of this New England winter. Guess what? When the synergy drive dies, you cant even push the thing to the side of the road. It took six mechanics to move it 5 feet from the flatbed to the lift!

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  An awesome car overall - love it! - 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By csports786 - January 18 - 11:50 pm

  I got this car about a month ago and have been thoroughly impressed so far! I went with the limited edition one and Im very happy I did--the navigation is one of the best in the industry, not to mention to helpful fuel economy screen and Sirius information. I believe Im on my 4th tank of gas, and my last one got 31.5 MPG overall. You can cruise to 40 MPH on electric if you dont accelerate too hard, and the Econ AC is a huge plus. One problem is the interior design--the doors are made of cheap looking plastic material that gets scuffed easily. But dont let this fool you, the car is amazing, and if you hurry you can still get a pretty nice tax credit that helps offset the hybrid premium.

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  Ford beats Toyota on this one! - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By rwolf01 - January 13 - 11:50 pm

  Ive owned Toyotas for 20 years and love my Prius, but Toyota blew it with the Highlander Hybrid. Its too big and the mileage just isnt good enough. In college I swore Id never own another American car, but the Escape Hybrid turned me around. Its brilliant. With the 4WD it goes anywhere I want including rough dirt roads and deep snow.... and it gets 50% better mileage than my old 4- runner. Ive tried to break it. I took it fast and fully loaded up a steep mountain highway to see if I could run the battery down.... no way. It just works. I get an honest 28-30 MPG average with the 4WD. Avoid the factory Nav system. Buy a Garmin instead.

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  2009 Ford Escape Hybrid Limited - 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By marksp - January 8 - 7:33 am

  Best compliment of fuel efficiency, utility and lowered environmental impact of any vehicle made in the USA. Proud to drive; happy to own! Feels well made and the "Limited" is well equipped. Great design!

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  Would recommend to anyone - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Catrina - January 5 - 11:00 am

  I really enjoy owning this vehicle. It has great acceleration when needed and a very smooth ride. The interior has clean lines and is very comfortable. The gauges are easy to read. The gasoline savings in downtown traffic are great.