2007 Ford Escape Hybrid

Inside is a unique gauge package that includes an economy indicator with a "green zone" that shows when the vehicle is operating on battery power. A separate display shows charge level and assist for the battery pack. The optional navigation system brings with it a premium Audiophile stereo, an energy flow diagram that displays hybrid system operation and a fuel economy display of instant and average mpg.


As in all '07 Escapes, there's seating for five with a 60/40 split rear seat and over 62 cu. ft. of cargo capacity with the rear seatbacks folded flat. Because the sizeable battery pack is efficiently packaged as the rear load floor, cargo space behind the rear bench is a respectable 27.6 cu. ft., only 1.7 cu. ft. less than standard Escapes.

Driving Impressions
If you've driven the other Escape, you won't notice much difference during normal driving. You will note that the engine shuts down on deceleration, stays down at rest, then restarts when you lift off the brake, and that the eCVT transmission seeks the engine's most efficient speed, which pushes rpm ahead of vehicle speed during hard acceleration and sometimes uphill. The controller switches the drive motor to generator duty for battery charging during braking ("regenerative" braking), and you won't feel much braking effect from the (shut down) engine while coasting.

Acceleration is about as strong as the V-6, at least to 50 mph or so. The electric power steering provides light effort at parking speeds and crisp feel and response as speeds increase. Handling is agile for a small SUV and little different from non-hybrid Escapes. Braking is normal except for some (hybrid-typical) low-speed non-linearity as regenerative braking phases in and out. The optional "intelligent" 4WD is completely transparent until you need it, if the front wheels lose traction. The capable hybrid will do everything the gas model does apart from match the V6's 3,500-lb. towing capacity.

Features and Options
New paint colors for 2007 are Dune Pearl Clearcoat Metallic, Tungston Grey Clearcoat Metallic and Vista Blue Clearcoat Metallic. Special packages include an Appearance Package featuring silver metallic fascias resulting in a monochromatic look when combined with the Silver Clearcoat Metallic paint. Step up to the Leather Comfort Group for leather-trimmed seating and steering wheel; Premium Package adding heated front seats, heated side view mirrors, Hybrid Energy Audio and Navigation System, an under-the-seat 6-disc CD changer and more. Available in five exterior colors, this package also offers a Reverse Sensing System, a cargo area retractable cover, rear floor mats and a handy 110-volt outlet.