The gasoline-electric Escape receives pretty much all of the 2008 alterations -- most of which focus on styling, inside and out -- as its conventional gas-engine counterparts.
It remains based on the same architecture (now seven-years-old) as the previous model. The new, more rugged-looking exterior is designed to emphasize a family resemblance with other Ford SUVs. Inside, the dcor and furnishings are all new and improved. Six airbags and stability control are now standard.
The Hybrid continues to be a "full" hybrid. Like a Toyota (from which Ford licensed much of the technology), the Escape Hybrid can run near-silently on 100-percent electric power up to about 40 km/h, maximizing in-city fuel economy.
In electric mode, power is delivered by a permanent magnet AC synchronous electric motor, producing 70 kW at 5,000 rpm and 330 maximum volts. When additional power is required, the Escape Hybrid's 2.3-litre DOHC 16-valve Atkinson cycle four-cylinder engine seamlessly engages, contributing 133 hp at 6,000 rpm and 124 lb-ft of torque at 4,250 rpm.
The net result is 155 hp, giving acceleration between those of the 4- and 6-cylinder gas Escapes, with potentially vastly better urban fuel economy.
For 2008, Ford has tuned the system to transition between gasoline and electric operation more seamlessly.
Lots of clean green machine for the money
Powertrain deserves a more modern setting