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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  Wife Loves Hybrid Escape - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Jerry - September 8 - 4:26 pm

  Owned new 2006 AWD for 1 month. 32-33 MPG city driving, 28 mpg highway in first 100 miles. 15 Gallon tank means 400+ miles between fills. Mileage is improving and 100% operation on electric motor below 40 MPH is increasing as vehicle is broken in. Wife is a former Passat-325E BMW driver - she loves how the Escape handles. Handles better than expected in high winds.

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  Pleasure - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Tom - July 18 - 12:16 am

  Very satisfactory vehicle. Drove it cross country Baltimore to Steamboat to Park City to Boise and back averaging 70mph and got approximately 27mpg. No problems in the Rockies with always available power to climb and pass going up grades of 7 percent. In the high altitudes with no air resistance I was getting nearly 45mpg with the car fully loaded. Sound system is boomy with the plastic door panel mountings and no input for iPods or XM/Sirius radios. The NAV system is OK but GARMINS are MUCH better and more flexible. I know have 11,000 miles and everything appears to be in good shape.

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  Ford Escape - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Kevin - June 27 - 3:10 am

  Handling, gas mileage is great.

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  Not bad...not bad at all. - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Chris - May 22 - 6:13 pm

  This vehicle is not something you are going to want if you are looking for the drive of your life, but if youre looking to have an economical vehicle that looks pretty good, then this is the one for you. I did have a couple proplems with some of the features when I first got my car, but Ford was more than happy to fix those up for me. All in all this is probably on of the best cars Ive owned. I enjoy the smill I have every time I fill up my gas tank.

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  Who wouldnt buy this - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Mike - March 24 - 9:56 pm

  Getting just under 36 mpg average so far. I cant believe that a car this ample gets better mileage than my Chevy Prism (a.k.a. Toyota Corolla). I actually feel sorry for most car owners when I look around parking lots. One nice trick that I have learned is riding the brakes a little when descending a hill. Keeping the car under 40mph will keep the IC off and youre charging up the battery at the same time. With the federal tax credits and PA state rebate, the car doesnt cost any more than a regular Escape. I was able to get the supplier X discount, which was about invoice for the car. Its better, its cheaper to own and it costs the same as a regular Escape. Who wouldnt buy this?

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  so so savings on fuel - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Louis - March 5 - 6:50 pm

  Not told by salesman that A/C didnt work while car stopped or running on battery, must start engine by switching AC to Max. No fuel savings if engine needs to run so that the AC will work. No cargo net.

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  Chilton - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By chilton - February 26 - 2:26 am

  Drives fine except for accelerating onto highway. I drove Explorers for years, so Im getting used to a lighter-weight vehicle, but love the improved mileage. Still think the higher price in comparison to an Explorer makes the improved gas costs overrated. I have a problem with paying more (we also bought another Explorer) and receiving a lesser quality vehicle. My Hybrid payment is $100.00 more per month than our new Explorer. So its give and take.

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  08 Escape Hybrid - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By John Miraldi - February 24 - 4:56 pm

  I recently purchased this vehicle after reading a number of positive reviews on various internet sites, but quite honestly, this vehicle is very average. Overall build quality is below Honda and Toyota. Performance is very average in terms of acceleration,noise etc. Vehicle feels very loose on the highway. Gas mileage has been good...as advertised. Beware if you drive in a warm weather region because the air conditioning compressor shuts off at stops and when the car is running on the electric motor only. If you are in a traffic jam on a 90 degree day, you are in for a painful ride. Also, beware the the $3,000 tax credit may not apply if you make six figures and utilize the AMT

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  The Quiet SUV - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Bobby J. - January 19 - 11:56 pm

  Traded in my 4WD pick-up that got 15 mpg. Wanted to get this vehicle last winter, but there was no real availability in my area at that time. I have had it for a month and have driven about 2,500 miles and overall I am very pleased. I have averaged 30 mpg for all types of driving. I had to install a back-up alarm because when this vehicle is operating on electric you cant hear anything but the tires moving. I didnt get much for options because I have a Garmin Street Pilot GPS system. I take the vehicle out on backwoods roads to take me to hiking locations and it is a bit weird to roll along with no engine noise. People often stop to inquire about it and Im always glad to inform them.

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  Had to trade it in - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By dina k - January 6 - 11:10 am

  I wanted an Escape Hybrid since they came out and finally got one. I stupidly didnt realize the importance of getting the 4WD version. Its hard tires handle well below average in any kind of slick/snowy conditions. The truck told me the tires were under pressure when it was cold out and that the passenger door was ajar when it reached below freezing temps. Finally had to get rid of it when the dealership told me they couldnt fix the loud squeeking coming from the front drivers side brake.