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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  Rented One, Bought One! - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Gina B - September 26 - 2:10 pm

  We rented a 2008 Escape Hybrid 7 weeks ago and put 4000 miles on it. It turned out to be a great little SUV. We averaged about 28.5 miles to the gallon (Mostly mountains and freeway driving). It was comfortable, reliable and fun to drive. We liked it so much, we bought one yesterday! It was a nice surprise, we didnt expect it to be such a nice vehicle.

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  2009 Escape Hybrid 4WD - 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By BrionL - September 16 - 6:13 pm

  1,000 miles and very pleased with the vehicle. Getting an honest 32mpg with mixed hwy/city driving which is great for an AWD vehicle. Excellent regular performance when needed.

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  Great SUV gas mileage! - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Cheryl K - September 11 - 12:40 am

  As an owner of 4 SUVS and ready to get rid of one I decided to look into getting the Escape Hybrid SUV for its gas mileage. I bought the AWD upgraded 2007 gold Escape with grey leather seats (no option in leather color), rear beeping system, moonroof and navigation. The interior is almost as nice as my 2005 Gold Expedition Limited and the ride is smooth and pickup is fine. Its not as roomy as my Expedition but its comfortable. I love the gas mileage and am averaging 30 mpg which is double my Expedition. Its a very quiet running vehicle and sometimes at a stop light its on battery and I dont think its even on but it is when I press the gas! And it also holds my four golden retrievers!

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  A Mean Green Machine - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Dan - August 8 - 2:23 pm

  Plenty of power for on and off freeways plus passing at highway speeds. Power management system is seamless and CVT transmission is so smooth. Comfortable ride and satisfactorily quiet. The current $2600 federal tax credit makes this vehicles total cost to own reasonable. Overall this vehicle is fun to drive, and the best hybrid value in the market.

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  Thrives in Traffic - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By R. Lee - August 7 - 1:10 pm

  The Ford Escape Hybrid thrives best in traffic driving, no matter where it is. Open highway gas mileage a bit lower than expected, yet better than any other comparable SUVs in its class. Want to buy the 2008 because it looks even "beefier" outside. Only complaint: rear trunk carpet does not hold well, slide furniture or a heavy box into the back and the carpet slides with it exposing the 330amp battery.

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  Escape Hybrid - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By David - July 17 - 11:10 am

  The gas mileage of this vehicle is incredible for an SUV. And the heated leather seats feel great on my bum back. The NAV system is incredible. I can say nothing bad about this vehicle. Its perfect!

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  Best Hybrid around for SUV use - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By C.Kreider - July 14 - 6:26 am

  I needed an SUV for hauling and this model is excellent with plenty of storage in the back seat and trunk area. Very peppy on the road and the smooth transition from battery to gas is not felt at all. Very happy owner! I drive lots of freeway traffic and like the way the car handles at all speeds.

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  First Off The Lot - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By michael - June 13 - 7:36 am

  Just bought a 2006 the day after the dealer received it. I was going to buy a 2005, but stumbled across the 2006 on the internet at the last second. It is an amazing vehicle. Early trip computer results are showing 33.5 mpg. Its amazing to drive through the subdivision at 25 mph with the tach pegged at 0, i.e. all electric drive. A money saver not usually noted is that scheduled oil changes are every 10,000 miles. Should pay for those hot summer days in Texas where you need to use max air conditioning and sacrifice a little mileage.

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  Absolutely love it! - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Vince - June 11 - 3:56 am

  Seemed hard to get a Escape Hybrid, but it was well worth the wait after ordering it. Absolutely love driving it and watch the MPG display show 33+ MPG. Love the body style and the interior is very well designed. I couldnt be happier with this purchase.

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  No wonder Ford leads the Big 3 - 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By detroit ex-pat - May 31 - 5:20 am

  I had been looking at the FEH for a while and happened to find the one I wanted a dealer nearby, so I went to check it out. Anyway two hours later I had traded in my 2004 Chevy Malibu Maxx for my new FEH. So far I have put about 8600 miles on it in the 4 months I have had the car and I love driving it. Ive got a 35 mile commute from the north side of Chicago to the western suburbs (a mix of city, freeway and horrendous traffic), and I feel as though the FEH must have been designed to drive my commute. Long haul trips are a breeze as well with the sync system to entertain (or distract) during long hours behind the wheel.