2007 Ford Escape Hybrid

Ford made no significant mechanical or interior upgrades to the 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid, though it did offer the eco-friendly vehicle in a number of new colors (Vista Blue Metallic, Dune Pearl, and Tungsten Gray), as well as with some new upgrade packages, such as a Silver Appearance Package with silver body accents. As in previous years, the Escape Hybrid was available in both front-wheel and four-wheel-drive versions.

The Escape Hybrid's innovative powerplant consists of a fuel-efficient 2.3-liter four-cylinder Atkinson Cycle engine and a compact electric motor, which powers the vehicle up to 25 miles per hour, conserving fuel.

Other hybrid-related technologies include an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT), which results in seamless acceleration, and regenerative braking, which generates electricity when you apply the brakes to recharge the battery. According to Ford, the hybrid powerplant produces 70 percent better fuel economy in the city than a traditional gas-fueled four-cylinder Escape.

That may be true, but some drivers expressed disappointment at not getting the fuel economy they had hoped for, particularly during city driving. Ford notes that the Escape Hybrid should average about 30 miles per gallon, which is acceptable for an SUV but not impressive for a hybrid, and not a substantial improvement over, say, a standard gas-powered sedan. Others noted that the Escape Hybrid can feel nose-heavy, thanks to its sightly heavier body weight due to the hybrid engine. Some also noted the vehicle is noisier than expected, though interior comfort and handling are said to be good.

Overall, drivers felt that the Escape Hybrid was an acceptable, though pricey, alternative to standard gas-guzzling SUVs, enabling them to make fewer trips to the gas station while still having plenty of room to haul around the family.