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:

• 

  Ford Escape Hybrid Evaluation - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By john - March 13 - 10:00 am

  The car is great. It is responsive and roomy, having all the attributes of my former Jeep without the ugly gas mileage and size. I especially love the display on the dash that tells me what the powertrain is doing at any time. I believe that this hybrid car has made me a much better driver, more conscious of mileage and more conscious of the virtues of driving smoothly and efficiently. But that doesnt mean that it does not have the pep and performance of an all gas powered vehicle. It has plenty. Over all, it is a joy to drive.

• 

  Hybrid Issues to Consider - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By K. Smith - February 25 - 11:46 am

  As a just past owner of a 06 Ford Escape hybrid, I would ask anyone looking into the hybrid models 06 & 07 to have your eyes open and understand the issues I found on my hybrid. Air Conditioning: You loose your A/C when you are traveling under 25 MPH, unless you go to Max Air, This makes the gas motor run all the time and why did you buy a hybrid ? Per factory this is how it was designed and live with it or find somthing else. I did I moved to a new Edge. I never did get the suggested mileage, I average around 31 MPG on freeway, trade in value wasnt as good as my Ford sales person suggested (My fault to listen to sales person) No sour grapes, just beware !

• 

  Love my hybrid - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By green in NewEngland - February 24 - 1:10 am

  We were lucky enough to get this hybrid off the truck as there were none left in New England. I have not had trouble with my car at all. I do take it to required check-ups and oil changes. It gets out of alignment about once a year but Im sure my new drivers are responsible for that. They love to take the hybrid because their sporty cars are gas hogs. At first the mileage was just average but as it ages it gets better and better. The interior is driver friendly, its good in snow and warms up super fast on icy days. After three years and 72,000 miles, I love it and will replace it with the same thing when it gets too old to go.

• 

  Nice - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Dave - February 1 - 4:20 am

  I have driven the Escape in downtown Chicago and on the wide open interstate. 30mpg in Chicago and 29.5 at highway+ speeds. Runs very smooth with the CVT transmission. Nice to know I can fill it full of gear and get that good of mileage.

• 

  Happy Hybrid - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By gpcpilot - January 16 - 5:06 am

  Love my new 07 Escape Hybrid. The "Refire" metallica paint virtually glows, catches admiring looks from folks and doesnt show dirt too readily. I do quite a bit of highway and mixed driving. Im currently getting about 31.8 mpg, which Im ecstatic about. Thats twice the mileage I got from my 2001 V6 Ranger, the Escape replaced. The trucklette is roomy, pretty comfortable and fairly peppy. I see a long relationship with this little SUV.

• 

  Great Decision! - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By gman - January 14 - 11:03 pm

  I really enjoy the decision to buy a Hybrid Ford Escape. The overall quality is excellent. The piece of mind knowing that I can have great gas mileage, protecting the environment and also not send money over to the Middle East is worth every penny. I also enjoy the same benefits of a regular SUV concerning cargo space and overall flexibility. The only downside is the interior design, very simple (I cant believe there is not a holder for a cell phone!) Overall, very happy with the purchase.

• 

  Hybrid - 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By David - January 13 - 3:03 am

  Great power from a 2.5L engine, but when I saw rear drum brakes in a 2009 I thought I was seeing things. I wasnt. This car is under-braked. It is hard to stop in hard braking. It is also a little squirrely in handling turns, the Escape tends to wallow in mountain turns at freeway speeds. Overall a peppy car to drive around town but I find it difficult to get the electric motor to turn on at low speeds, even using a very light touch.

• 

  I love my Escape Hybrid! - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Becky - January 9 - 3:10 pm

  I am so happy I bought this car! I traded in my BMW X5 and year later I know I made the right decision. I am getting about 35mpg vs the 10mpg in the X5. I highly reccomend this car. I also got a $4000 tax credit from the IRS for purchasing a hybrid vehicle. The dealership doesnt want you to know that because they are trying to sell the non-hybrid versions. If you have to have an SUV this is a great truck!

• 

  Coolest vehicle Ive ever owned! - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Mooline - November 26 - 9:13 pm

  The Escape Hybrid has surpassed my 71 Firebird as the coolest car Ive ever owned. Its great to have the load capacity of an SUV on the same gas mileage as the Camry Hybrid. Driving this vehicle is a fun challenge - to see how efficient you can be! Technique definitely matters - no jackrabbit starts, coast as much as possible, avoid excessive speed and youll see 32-33 mpg without a problem. I live in South FL and so far, no problems with the a/c on economy mode; car stays cool with the fan & recirc. air. I did a lot of research before buying. Settled on this vs. Camry Hybrid (equivalent in style & fuel economy) due to max. tax credit, lower price, better load capacity.

• 

  Great mileage from an SUV - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By BikerDan - November 9 - 8:13 pm

  Bought this to replace a 95 Grand Cherokee and an 04 Grand Prix. Mileage has varied from 26mpg freeway to 33mpg city. Power from a stop is a little weak. Passing power is very capable. Ride is a little bouncy. Handling is a little unstable above 70mph. Below that, its acceptable for an SUV. Cabin is a little noisy, but no worse than the Grand Prix. Headroom/legroom in both front and back are good. Im 62" and even with the moonroof I still have headroom. 4 wheel disc brakes are very good, but have an odd, nonlinear feel to them. Any doubts about it? Ask for a 24- hour test drive. One day of commuting with it sold me on the Ford Escape Hybrid!