Overview & Reviews

A slightly larger, more powerful engine, the addition of stability control and the debut of Ford's Sync system (which allows voice commands to a cell phone, audio system and navigation system) highlight the tweaks made to the Ford Escape Hybrid for 2009. Other changes include the addition of a Limited trim level, the adoption of a capless fuel-filler system and ambient cabin lighting.

• Surprisingly powerful hybrid drivetrain, gets 30 mpg in the real world, comfortable and roomy interior.

• Pricey for its size, noisy under hard acceleration, fussy rear-seat-folding process, handling not as sporty as some rivals, disappointing braking performance.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 36.00

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  09 escape hybrid--what an improvement - 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By jrs3 - June 7 - 9:46 pm

  I just traded in a 4WD 07 escape hybrid for a 4WD 09 hybrid--what a huge difference--the driving experience, quality and comfort much improved. The vehicle has become a class act rather than a noisy bare bones 4X4. Other improvements include a much better tuned switch from gas to electric and the mileage is better (31 average in mixed driving and it is not yet broken in).

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  An awesome car overall - love it! - 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By csports786 - January 18 - 11:50 pm

  I got this car about a month ago and have been thoroughly impressed so far! I went with the limited edition one and Im very happy I did--the navigation is one of the best in the industry, not to mention to helpful fuel economy screen and Sirius information. I believe Im on my 4th tank of gas, and my last one got 31.5 MPG overall. You can cruise to 40 MPH on electric if you dont accelerate too hard, and the Econ AC is a huge plus. One problem is the interior design--the doors are made of cheap looking plastic material that gets scuffed easily. But dont let this fool you, the car is amazing, and if you hurry you can still get a pretty nice tax credit that helps offset the hybrid premium.

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  2009 Ford Escape Hybrid Limited - 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By marksp - January 8 - 7:33 am

  Best compliment of fuel efficiency, utility and lowered environmental impact of any vehicle made in the USA. Proud to drive; happy to own! Feels well made and the "Limited" is well equipped. Great design!

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  Love it! (even after 2 warranty repairs) - 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Kyle - December 21 - 4:13 am

  Ive had my FEH for 4 months now. I love it, it makes my daily commutes in traffic so much better. The sync system is awesome, same with the hands-free phoning, and the satellite radio. Ive been getting about 36 mpg - plus its kinda fun try to keep the tach in the green (battery mode) while driving, it takes a little practice to get good at it - sometimes I even find myself hoping traffic will slow down so I can recharge! On the downside, I have had to take it back to the dealership for two different repairs, will go into more detail below. Overall I am extremely happy with the purchase and would recommend the FEH to anyone (as long as its still under warranty). Its a great vehicle!

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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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  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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  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.

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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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  37 MPG! & Great for Tall Drivers - 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By phatcat73 - September 5 - 2:38 am

  I purchase mine used in Nov 2010 and it had 32k miles on it. It was a fleet vehicle which probably means car rental which concerned me a bit, however aside from buying new, used versions are difficult to find. Im 66"and few cars/trucks fit me. For being a compact SUV, this one is just right! At temperatures above 50 deg, Im averaging around 37mpg in mixed driving. To get to the level I learned to maximize the battery when driving under 40mph as the engine can shutoff and drive under all electric power for a short time. You really have to learn the thresholds as to when the engine will kick in driving under 40 then try to maximize the battery. This will yield higher MPGs.

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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.