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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  Thank you, Ford - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By 3rd Escape;1st hybri - February 10 - 5:50 am

  This is our third Escape, but first Hybrid. We love it. The quietness, non-pollution in Houston traffic, and electronic read-out system are great! It is a shock to people in parking lots to have a vehicle move without engine noise when in the electric function. I am proud not to be adding to the polluted air in Houston. It does fine on the interstate, also. The gasoline mileage improved after the first month, as we were told it would. The green color is pretty; my favorite Escape color was yellow. With oil uncertainty, I have done my part. It is important to me that we can still carry more cargo than if it were a smaller hybrid. We need that flexibility. No lifestyle change.

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  Impressed with our new hybrid - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By zeeman84 - February 6 - 12:10 pm

  So far the experience has been positive. Traded a 2005 Escape which had served us very well. Average MPG with about 50% highway and 50% city driving has been 31mpg. Very quite, handles well, interior layout is great. Very happy with this purchase.

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  Good Decision - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Rick - January 29 - 8:43 pm

  We were able to purchase one of the first 2008 Escape Hybrids out for 2008 and have found if a great vehicle for us. We are averaging about 26.7 miles per gallon that includes both highway and in town driving every day. The satellite and GPS system are worth the extra money and make driving that much more enjoyable.

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  Better than I expected! - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Roy - January 12 - 2:50 pm

  Once I started driving my Escape I realized how easily it really handles. It can turn on a dime and it steers very easily. The navigation system is superb! The ride is comfortable and the gas mileage improves as you put on more miles. I have obtained an "In Town" mileage of 34 mpg. On long trips I average close to 32 mpg.

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  How to increase mileage? - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Jean - December 31 - 1:13 pm

  I am very pleased with the 2006 Ford Escape hybrid, which I have owned for 1 week. I miss a few features I had on my Saab 9-3 (radio controls on steering wheel, day lights and ignition on console) but otherwise am quite pleased. It is peppy and fun to drive. I have not however achieved great mileage - in fact, I would appreciate any tips. I got 27 on the highway and even less in the city, which is opposite of what I expected. I admit to having a little bit of a heavy foot, so I have tried to ease up on the peddle. Do others find that the gas engine kicks in very quickly. I certainly dont drive at 25 mph on the electric engine.

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  Traded Hummer H2 SUT and Very Happy! - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Craig Y in Dallas - November 10 - 2:13 pm

  When I bought my FEH in May 2007, I was looking for a more economical replacement for my Hummer H2 that I absolutely loved, that is until I had to feed it! I was spending $600 - $900 per month on fuel and could no longer justify that expense. I did not want to buy the 4WD FEH initially until I could determine whether I could be happy in the pint sized replacement. I purchased the 2008 FEH FWD and to my absolute amazement, it surpassed my expectations in every way! It not only delivers 2.5 to 3 times the gas milease I was getting in my H2 but it had more cargo space and great acceleration. From my home in Dallas, I regularly get 32 - 37 MPG driving to and from Austin.

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  Pleased overall - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By shane - November 6 - 12:00 pm

  This vehicle has cut my weekly fuel cost from $80 to $35. That’s a $2600 yearly savings and I did not have to do anything other than change vehicles. The vehicle is comfy with plenty of amenities. My family is very pleased so far. I do not mind that these vehicles are not perfect and I am grateful that manufacturers are finally making a product that uses less fuel, cannot wait for improved models in the future.

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  I Love My Escape Hybrid - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Sklmarm - October 27 - 9:33 am

  I love my new Escape Hybrid. The last time I had so much fun driving a vehicle was as a college senior when I got my first new car. (I have a college senior and junior of my own now). The car drives and rides beautifully and I feel that I am doing my part to help our environment. I am an SUV kinda gal so am thrilled that Ford came out with one that has decent gas mileage. I am averaging 32 mpg which is a lot better than my Explorer was getting. I do get a kick out of the "stealth mode". OK, I taught kindergarten for years so I still have a lot of the kid in me. I think it is pretty cool that my little SUV can sneak up on folks who are walking down the middle isle of a parking lot.

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  Fantastic, luxurious, fun to drive - 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By SMB - October 16 - 7:10 pm

  I couldnt be happier with my new Escape Hybrid. Even during the break-in period, during which MPG is slightly less, the efficiency is stunning. As a city driver, getting 34 mpg in the city in a beautiful, luxurious, peppy SUV is a dream come true. The pick up makes it feel more like a V6 than a 4-cylinder. The interior of the Limited edition is second-to-none, and the Sync feature is incredibly convenient. The car handles wonderfully, the steering and braking are responsive (which is an improvement from 2008, where braking was somewhat problematic, I understand). Could not be happier.

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  Great little hybrid - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By suegross - September 26 - 1:00 pm

  $3.00 gas got my attention and had me to look at hybrids. Am not a tree hugger-retired & trying to save some green! I drove many hybrid vehicles and all were impressive. The Escape looked and felt more like a typical car. Replaced 2002 Explorer V8 (15/19 MPG). Escape is averaging between 39 and 42 city & 33 miles highway driving from Destin to Cincinnati at 70+ mph. Ride is very comfortable and sufficient head room (62"). Acceleration is more than adequate. AC works very well in the normal mode. When waiting at a long light, the ac does not stay cold. Navigation system works well and is not distracting like the Prius. Sound system very good. Great visibility and easy to get in/out.