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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  My Millennium Falcon - 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By William Blake - August 17 - 12:57 am

  Very reliable and comfortable with traction in deep snow as good or better than my explorer. Around town, less than 40 mph, the electric motors give smooth, quiet, gas free acceleration and all braking refills the battery. Room for the skis, snowboards and boots in the vehicle while seating 4, or on top with room for 5. In 118,000 miles the drivers front wheel bearing has failed twice and the lower ball joints have been replaced once. Other than that the engine/motors and "Continuously Variable Transmission" and body and drive train have been flawless.

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  Todds Hybrid - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Todd Harbron - July 30 - 5:06 am

  I am so happy I spent the extra money on this car. It rides nice, is comfortable, and gets good gas mileage while it helps to save the air quality. The only issue I have it the steering wheel should cascade as for my long legs I have to stretch to reach the steering wheel. This was not a problem in my Sport-Trac or Ranger XLT. I highly recommend it though!

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  Satisfied Customer - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Jill - July 18 - 1:30 am

  Bought only a couple of weeks ago but it has been a dream so far. Smooth, quiet ride but still feels enough like a truck. Good acceleration even when youre already doing 60. Got it fully loaded (premium and safety packages with the moonroof). Good sound system and so much cargo space. Plenty of leg room in the back. Easy to use LATCH system for car seats. Tinted windows make window shades for kids unnecessary. Comfortable seats. I am one very satisfied customer.

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  06 Escape at 7700 miles - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Horatio - June 21 - 2:53 am

  This is the only vehicle I know of that exceeds the EPA window posting. If one modifies driving habits, the 4X4 Escape will return 34 MPG hwy and 31 MPG city. Fit and finish better that my neighbors Honda Accord. Ride unexpectedly good for size of vehicle. Very quiet except when 2.3 is revving, and only then is engine noticeable. Transition from electric to gas is almost seamless. Cruise control on long trips returns better MPG than not using cruise control. Nits are lack of steering wheel adjustments & unlighted cruise controls.

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  Great Vehicle, Stellar MPG - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Mikey533 - June 8 - 10:20 pm

  I have been watching the Escape Hybrid since it came out in 2005. I have read a lot of reviews, and knew to wait until after 1000 miles to check MPG. Also, have read enough to know that cold weather drops MPG, but that is the cost of living someplace cold. I set the cruise on my 35 minute highway drive to work at 70 for the first month and averaged 32.5 MPG. Second month I set the cruise at 65 and it jumped to 34.5. Add in the city driving and I get around 35.5. I had to rush home one day, and it really does move like a V-6 when you stomp on it. I rode in a 2006 a few times before, and again after, buying mine, and the 2008 is quiet. Engine rev noise only when it is working real hard

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  Technology Dream - 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By First Ford - May 31 - 1:56 pm

  My first impression of our new FEH is that the technology surrounding the car is wonderful! The EV drive train, the CVT transmission, SYNC, Blue Tooth, Sirius all work together flawlessly and make the car a lot of fun to drive. It handles pretty well and for an EUV, its even fun on a narrow winding road. Our one complaint is that the new recycled material seats are as hard as cement and will make driving long distances (one of the reasons we went with the FEH) a bit of a challenge.

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  Great vehicle - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Robert Stiskin - May 26 - 5:40 pm

  The only drawback is the slow pick-up on a highway entrance ramp. Other than that the vehicle is great. Might be too small for a family but for a couple or single person its more than enough room. With the cruise control on at highway speeds I get about 35 miles to the gallon. The traffic lights in my hometown are not synchronized so there is a lot of stop and start. And I average 26 mpg around town. Cold weather impacts the mileage too. The Escape Hybrid performs better in the warmer weather. Highly recommended.

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  Happy with my Hybrid - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By tmk - May 6 - 11:10 pm

  A previous owner of a 02 XLT midnight which i loved, it was not hard for me to trade in for a fully loaded hybrid. I love the nav system and computer and the ride is so smooth and quite with the cvt tranny. Just all the improvements over my 02 model and the gas mileage was enough for me. It has plenty of power so the v6 is not missed and it doesnt stand out like the Toyota Prius. Dont expect too much in the gas mileage; that all depends on your driving. Im currently getting 30 with hardly any stop and go traffic in which this vehicles shines. Got a great deal on mine.

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  I Love This Car - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By tnsnick12345 - April 16 - 9:43 am

  It drives great like a car and is practical. It gives me a lot of room to work with while not being a gas hog, like my previous SUVs. It is a pleasant surprise out on the open road and is pretty fun.

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  Doesnt Get Media Attention It Deserves - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By richjoy - April 7 - 5:16 am

  The utility of this crossover is wonderful. It is not as fuel-efficient as the Prius, but is much larger both inside and outside. Guests find the back seat comfortable with good viewing. I like the blue instrument lighting, the center-stack, the lighter interior colors, and tinted windows. It handles extremely well in the city and is large enough on the highway for a sense of safety). The 2.3 engine sometimes seems a bit underpowered and louder than it should be. The workmanship on my vehicle is excellent. I dont regret that I bought a $300 Garmin Nuvi instead of the $2500 built in GPS. In summary: The Escape Hybrid doesnt get the media attention it deserves.