I'm told this is 'the most fuel efficient SUV'. The 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid is definitely a competent vehicle, though its green technology only shines under certain driving conditions.
My all-wheel-drive Escape Hybrid test vehicle trekked well on the West Coast through abnormal dumps of snow and sheets of ice, despite being fitted with just all-season tires (which, for 2009, have less rolling resistance). Frigid temperatures are generally not ideal for efficient driving for many reasons, including it taking longer for the engine to reach optimal operating temperature.
There is no engine temperature gauge in the Escape Hybrid, but there is a sub-zero 'EV' spot on the tachometer that the needle eagerly swings to. This indicates that the vehicle is operating solely on electric power. After cold morning starts, the vehicle is able to turn to full electric power in just a few minutes while still delivering heat into the cabin. Conversely, on warmer days the 2009 the Escape Hybrid is now able to run solely on electric power when the air conditioning switch is on; however, the engine-run air compressor pauses until the gasoline motor starts.
Also new for 2009
There have been a few other changes to the Escape Hybrid for 2009. Spoilers on the front chin and ahead of the rear tires have been modified for improved aerodynamics, though the Escape is still blunt when trying to slice through air at speed. For more controlled handling there is now a thicker 18.5 mm rear stabilizer bar alongside revised suspension settings.
The 2009 Escape Hybrid's braking system has also been reworked; Ford used a new pedal sensor to provide a more traditional pedal feel. When the brake pedal is touched, kinetic energy is routed back to the batteries in the form of electricity. Meanwhile, a small charge/assist gauge helps communicate energy flow to the driver. The vehicle also seamlessly applies conventional brakes when needed; however, the 2008 Hybrid's rear disc brakes have been replaced by drums, which are generally less substantial. Some publications have reported that emergency stopping distances for the Hybrid are relatively lengthy.
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| The Escape Hybrid was a capable and comfortable means to relish a winter vacation in. |
My all-wheel-drive Escape Hybrid test vehicle trekked well on the West Coast through abnormal dumps of snow and sheets of ice, despite being fitted with just all-season tires (which, for 2009, have less rolling resistance). Frigid temperatures are generally not ideal for efficient driving for many reasons, including it taking longer for the engine to reach optimal operating temperature.
There is no engine temperature gauge in the Escape Hybrid, but there is a sub-zero 'EV' spot on the tachometer that the needle eagerly swings to. This indicates that the vehicle is operating solely on electric power. After cold morning starts, the vehicle is able to turn to full electric power in just a few minutes while still delivering heat into the cabin. Conversely, on warmer days the 2009 the Escape Hybrid is now able to run solely on electric power when the air conditioning switch is on; however, the engine-run air compressor pauses until the gasoline motor starts.
Also new for 2009
There have been a few other changes to the Escape Hybrid for 2009. Spoilers on the front chin and ahead of the rear tires have been modified for improved aerodynamics, though the Escape is still blunt when trying to slice through air at speed. For more controlled handling there is now a thicker 18.5 mm rear stabilizer bar alongside revised suspension settings.
The 2009 Escape Hybrid's braking system has also been reworked; Ford used a new pedal sensor to provide a more traditional pedal feel. When the brake pedal is touched, kinetic energy is routed back to the batteries in the form of electricity. Meanwhile, a small charge/assist gauge helps communicate energy flow to the driver. The vehicle also seamlessly applies conventional brakes when needed; however, the 2008 Hybrid's rear disc brakes have been replaced by drums, which are generally less substantial. Some publications have reported that emergency stopping distances for the Hybrid are relatively lengthy.
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| The 2008 Escape Hybrid's 2.3-litre four cylinder motor has been upgraded to 2.5 litres for 2009. |