While this gas/electric SUV can't out-economize some gasoline-only cars, it still does a good deal better than Ford's original Escape equipped with a conventional combustion engine. The difference is most evident when comparing the Escape models equipped with four-wheel drive. The 4WD Escape Hybrid's 31.07 mpg rating is 31 percent better than the 23.64 rating of the conventionally powered 4WD version.
Since its introduction, the Ford Escape has been one of America's best-selling small SUVs. Considering how many other vehicles are available in this segment (many of them well established before the Escape's debut), this may come as a bit of a surprise. But Ford has a keen knack for designing SUVs that appeal to a wide range of buyers.
With the Escape, Ford successfully combined the styling and four-wheel-drive capability of a traditional SUV with the size, practicality and driving characteristics of a midsize car. For the urban dweller in need of something comfortable, versatile, fun to drive and capable of doing some light-duty off-roading or towing, it fit the bill perfectly. Of course, the Escape's low price certainly boosted its appeal as well.
Though these attributes still hold true today, there's no denying that the Ford Escape's basic design is getting a bit old, even with a significant freshening for 2008. The interior in particular has received significant improvements, with much better materials and a more attractive design. Regardless, the Escape is at a disadvantage against newer compact sport-utilities, which are more refined and offer more rewarding driving experiences.
Current Ford Escape
