2008 Ford Escape Hybrid

Hoping to maintain its popularity among compact utility buyers, the Ford Escape is redesigned for 2008, and that includes its fuel-saving gasoline-electric hybrid model. But as the most fuel efficient utility available, Ford didn’t want to overdo the hybrid’s tweaks. So while “if it ain’t broke don’t fix it” seems to be their approach, there is more to the latest Escape Hybrid than just being frugal on gas. 

As one of America’s most popular compact crossover utilities – over one-million have been sold – the Escape is among Ford’s most important models. So when the 2008 Escape got a thorough rework, Ford engineers decided that a few upgrades to the Escape Hybrid were also in order.

The Hybrid’s drive train still consists of an Atkins-Cycle version of the Escape’s standard 2.3-liter Duratec 4-cylinder, which makes 133 horsepower and 124 pound-feet of torque. It’s mated to a 70-kilowatt electric motor, which boosts total system output to 155 horsepower.

And while there’s no more power than last year, the application of new software technology from eco-partner Toyota has significantly improved the transition between gas and electric power, making the Escape even more refined.

The Escape is a “full” or “strong” hybrid, meaning that it can run on electric power alone. The gas engine kicks in at about 25 miles-per-hour. That means a light footed driver can easily crawl around parking lots on electric only.

But when you punch it, the Hybrid still pulls like it has the gas-powered Escape’s available 200-horsepower V6. Both watts and ponies are delivered to either front, or all four wheel drives by a slick continuously-variable transmission.

And all this smooth driving is accomplished while delivering even better fuel economy ratings. The front-drive version earns 2008 Government Fuel Economy stats of 34 city/30 highway. The 4-wheel-drive model rates 29 city/27 highway. Our front-drive test vehicle delivered an impressive 33 miles-per-gallon on regular grade gas.

The Escape Hybrid’s Energy Impact Scores are equally impressive, at only 10.7 barrels of oil per year for the front-driver, and 12.2 with 4-wheel-drive.

The Escape Hybrid’s only direct competitor, the Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid, sports a lower 23 city/29 highway mileage ratings due to its less sophisticated “mild” hybrid system. Indeed, Escape Hybrid is the most fuel-efficient sport utility on the planet.

All Ford Escapes now turn with Electric Power Assisted Steering. It’s quick but a bit short on feel. AdvanceTrac electronic stability control is another new standard.

The improved acoustic insulation is impressive. It makes Escape drive as quiet as a luxury car.

Escape’s sibling, the Mercury Mariner Hybrid, gets all these upgrades too, along with the soon to arrive Mazda Tribute Hybrid.

The 2008 Ford Escape’s tough-looking skin is also new. The blunt front-end clearly favors its big brother Expedition. The tall egg-crate grille and higher hood-line are firm step away from cute-UTEs. The higher beltline gives Escape a more broad-shouldered, grounded profile, one that still rides on 16-inch alloy wheels. Gas-powered Escapes are available with 17-inchers for ‘08.

The Escape’s new look outside is complimented by a new look inside. The dash now looks more Super-Duty than compact car and boasts much improved material quality and fit and finish throughout, including upholstery made from 100-percent recycled fibers. Ford claims this will save up to 600,000 gallons of water and 7-million kilowatt hours of electricity each year.

The reshaped center stack now houses a new high mount information display and big user-friendly controls for climate, audio, energy use, and the optional navigation system, while the center console has a handy 110-volt power outlet.  Rear seating is still adequate for three close friends, while cargo space measures 27.8 cubic-feet with the second row up and a tall-and-wide 66 cubic-feet with it down.

As to personal safety, front side impact and side curtain airbags with roll-over sensor are now standard.

Escape Hybrid prices start at $25,740 for the front-wheel-drive model and $27,490 for one with 4-wheel-drive. Subtract government tax credits of $3,000 for 2-wheel-drive and $2,200 for 4-wheel-drive, and the fuel-sipping Escape becomes a serious hybrid bargain.

With its more refined drive train, sharpened styling, and upgraded interior, the 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid is once again the best option for buyers who want both SUV practicality and commuter car economy.