2008 Ford Escape Hybrid

Chocolate without the calories. Beer without the belly. Given the choice, we'd all like to be able to indulge without consequences. But the reality is that sometimes we have to compromise. In recent years, many drivers have wished they could keep their big SUVs, but their monthly gas bills argued otherwise. So, reluctantly, they moved down in size to economize. These days, technology adds to our options, so the compromising needn't be so demoralizing. Case in point—the Ford Escape Hybrid.

Hybrid Dynamics & Mileage

Ford has recently introduced the 2008 version of its popular compact SUV, and it's available with three powertrains. In addition to a 2.3-liter four-cylinder and 3.0-liter V-6, Ford also offers a hybrid-powered model. This Escape is a full hybrid, meaning it is capable of running completely on electric power up to about 25 mph. As your speed increases, the 70 kw electric motor is joined by a 2.3-liter Atkinson cycle four-cylinder gas engine. The combined 155 horsepower is more than enough to handle daily driving situations—everything from city shuffling to highway cruising. Unlike some hybrids, Escape's power flow is seamless. There's no sudden silence when you stop, no abrupt pickup when the gas motor chimes in. The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) holds up its end of the driveline nicely, getting the power to the pavement efficiently. And efficiency with fuel is key to Escape Hybrid's popularity.


2008 EPA estimates for fuel efficiency are 34 city/30 highway for the front-wheel-drive Escape, making it—along with cousins Mazda Tribute Hybrid 2WD and Mercury Mariner Hybrid FWD—the most fuel-efficient SUV in the country, according to www.fueleconomy.gov. A 4-wheel-drive version is also available, with mileage estimates of 29/27. Our FWD test vehicle netted 30 mpg in mixed, city/highway driving. We know a lot of SUV drivers who would trade their eyeteeth (and their payment books) for a steady diet of 30 mpg.

Features & Space
Escape's available Intelligent 4WD system is geared toward all-weather driving rather than all-terrain travel. It's an on-demand setup, requiring no driver input. The system monitors wheel slip and directs engine torque from front to rear as necessary to maximize traction. The Escape has a firm (but not harsh) ride and a stable feel going down the road. New for 2008 is a speed sensitive, electronic power steering unit that doles out just enough boost to keep steering effort easy, without losing feel. All Escape models benefit from "right-size" dimensions. Former drivers of larger utes will be pleasantly surprised with the ease with which Escape can be threaded through tight quarters. Visibility is generally good in all directions, though drivers must take into account the back seat head restraints when sizing up their rear view.


"Utility" is an SUV's middle name. The squared off shape of the traditional sport-ute form is a people- and cargo-friendly design. Escape fills the bill, on both scores. Swing up the split, lift gate door and you've got a generous, 27.8 cubic feet of cargo capacity, expandable to as much as 66 cubic feet, with both rear seats folded forward. Liftover height in back is low. Rear seat headrests must be popped off before folding. Up front, Escape has enough room to easily seat six footers. With a little legroom compromise between rows, Escape will also fit a couple of six footers in the back row. There's plenty of spots for onboard storage, including molded door pockets, a small glove box, various cubbyholes and an oversized, covered center console big enough to hold a laptop computer. Cloth seating on the Escape Hybrid is also eco-friendly, made from 100% post-industrial material.