The Escape's hybrid technology imparts a few peculiarities, which can take some time to acclimate to. One such characteristic is brake pedal actuation that feels unnecessarily grabby, especially at slow speeds. This is attributable to regenerative braking. Another slight oddity is the electric power steering assist, which I found imparted a "springy" detached feel. Both of these hybrid-unique idiosyncrasies are easily compensated for after a few days in the driver's seat; a seat I found to be supportive and remarkably comfortable.
Hybrid frugality
The price differential between hybrid and non-hybrid vehicles has been steadily diminishing. The 2008 FWD Escape Hybrid starts at $31,499 while a 4WD version launches at $33,899. Both of these vehicles are well furnished, and I'm pleased that Ford has chosen to include seat-mounted side impact airbags and overhead airbags as standard equipment.
With realistic pricing continuing to evolve, hybrid ownership is making more sense everyday. The 4WD Escape Hybrid is rated at 6.8 and 7.3 litres of fuel per 100K of city and highway driving respectively. And yes, you read that correctly. Hybrids tend to be more fuel efficient in stop and go city driving than on the highway. The onboard computer placed my combined city and highway motoring in the 7-8.5L range, which I found to be impressive given the heft of my right foot.
photo:Rob Rothwell
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| The Escape's hybrid technology imparts a few peculiarities, which can take some time to acclimate to. |
Hybrid frugality
The price differential between hybrid and non-hybrid vehicles has been steadily diminishing. The 2008 FWD Escape Hybrid starts at $31,499 while a 4WD version launches at $33,899. Both of these vehicles are well furnished, and I'm pleased that Ford has chosen to include seat-mounted side impact airbags and overhead airbags as standard equipment.
With realistic pricing continuing to evolve, hybrid ownership is making more sense everyday. The 4WD Escape Hybrid is rated at 6.8 and 7.3 litres of fuel per 100K of city and highway driving respectively. And yes, you read that correctly. Hybrids tend to be more fuel efficient in stop and go city driving than on the highway. The onboard computer placed my combined city and highway motoring in the 7-8.5L range, which I found to be impressive given the heft of my right foot.
photo:Rob Rothwell
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