Summary:
Voted #3 by consumers as the best value, hybrid SUV, Ford was the first to the table with a hybrid SUV. The Ford Escape Hybrid was such a success that the similar Mercury Mariner was introduced a year early. This highly-praised Escape Hybrid compact SUV is a “full” hybrid, meaning it can run on its electric motor only below 25 mph, its gasoline engine only at higher speeds, or the most efficient combination of both, as determined by its sophisticated hybrid system controller. Launched two years ago, the Escape Hybrid, also the first full hybrid offering four-wheel drive, was named North American Truck of the year by an impartial jury of journalists at Detroit’s 2005 North American International Auto Show. Impressive!
Engine:
Touted as an efficient 133-hp 2.3-liter Atkinson cycle I-4 engine, with a 70-kilowatt electric motor, the Ford Escape has an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission that receives power from the engine and electric motor and routes it to the drive wheels; a second motor/generator for starting the engine, recharging the batteries and helping to seamlessly blend the two power sources; a 330-volt nickel-metal-hydride) battery pack, and an electronic vehicle controller that monitors system inputs, conditions and demands and manages all vehicle drive, engine starting and battery charging functions. The 2.3-liter I4 provides a total peak output of 155 hp and 0-60 mph acceleration equivalent to that of the 200-hp Escape V-6, mostly because the electric motor supplements the gas engine with an instantaneous torque boost at low rpm.
MGP:
Because it is most efficient at low speeds and in stop-and-go driving, the standard FWD Hybrid rates an impressive 36 EPA city mpg.
Interior:
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.
Exterior:
The Escape Hybrid looks like the gas-powered models…a good thing, since Escape is America’s best-selling compact SUV. Sharp eyes will notice its (Ford environmental) road and leaf badges and a discreet battery-cooling vent in the driver’s-side rear quarter window.
Safety:
Safety features include: anti lock brakes, depowered airbag, optional head airbag, four wheel antilock brakes, passenger airbag and optional side airbag. The Ford Escape Hybrid is noted for maneuverability, cargo room and visibility. It has plenty of conveniences, including available AWD, anti-lock brakes and a 110-volt outlet on the control panel.
Warranty:
8 year, 100,000 miles; roadside: 5 year, 60,000 miles; rust: 5 year, unlimited mileage.
