2008 Ford Escape Hybrid Review
The Escape is a crossover utility vehicle that debuted for the 2001 model year. It received a refresh for 2005, with a new base engine, new safety systems, an intelligent all-wheel drive system, and the removal of the reclining rear seat due to safety concerns. The hybrid was also introduced that year. In 2007, the exterior was remodeled, the column shifter was replaced with a floor shifter, and the engine was made more fuel efficient. The Escape is brand new for 2008.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Ford Escape Hybrid is an excellent version of the already good Escape. In addition to its interior comforts and excellent safety features, it offers an unprecedented level of fuel economy for its class. All around, the Escape Hybrid is a winner.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
The Escape is too new for long-term reliability data to be available. J.D. Power does not yet have initial reliability information. The previous Escape earned an overall green rating from Automotive Information Systems, but notes moderate engine problems between 2001 and 2002. The last Escape had problematic door handles, heater cores, shifting, and steering. It was recalled ten times, eight of those being related to the 2001 model. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Escape earned perfect 5-star government crash test ratings, except for the frontal driver side, which earned three stars. IIHS data is not yet available. The Escape comes with full side airbags, anti-lock brakes, a rollover sensor, tire pressure monitoring, and traction and stability control.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Fully loaded safety features
+ Comfortable interior
+ Good looking exterior
Cons
– Unknown reliability
– Few mechanical changes from last generation
– Weak engine
Head-To-Head Competition:
There are many similarly priced SUVs that offer more features, but none can compete on gas mileage. The Honda CR-V EX-L comes with standard AWD, leather seats, a sunroof, CD changer, and 30 more horsepower, but the Escape costs $900 less and gets up to 14 more miles to the gallon. The Subaru Outback L.L. Bean Edition, at $1,200 more, comes with AWD, navigation, a CD changer, and 40 more horsepower. But it also gets up to 14 miles less to the gallon than the Escape. The (Toyota Highlander ), for $600 more, has third-row seating and a bit more horsepower, but it also gets worse gas mileage.
What Others Are Saying:
“The Escape is a pleasant mix of lean and boxy, which gives it a rugged look without all the fat that weighs down larger SUVs.” – U.S. News & World Report
“Although it stumbled out of the blocks and didn’t impress us with long-term reliability, the Escape has somehow, well, escaped what could have been a disastrous introduction for an all-new vehicle. In the end, the Escape proves that sometimes the package is as important as the product.” – Automobile Magazine
“Two days in prototype Escapes on freeways, back roads and barely roads around here suggest Escape will be a vigorous competitor, perhaps the best of the lot.” – USA Today
Read more about the 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid at the Ford manufacturer web site.
