2009 Ford Escape Hybrid

Compact sport-utility vehicle with a green connection

By Nina Russin

2009 Ford Escape Hybrid

Ford broke into the hybrid market with the Escape four years ago. Since then, Ford’s green SUV has undergone numerous technology updates: this year it gets a new inline-four cylinder engine that develops twenty more horsepower and twelve foot-pounds of torque over the unit it replaces. EPA fuel economy is slightly higher than the outgoing model.

The test car is the front-wheel drive model. Buyers can opt for an on-demand four-wheel drive system that has better all-weather performance. The down side is a considerable reduction in gas mileage: about four miles-per-gallon less than the front-wheel drive car.

For the first time, Ford is also offering a premium model.  The Escape Limited Hybrid comes with special wheels and chrome accents on the exterior. Inside, buyers get an upgraded audio package. Ford’s keypad entry system is also standard.

For 2009, all Escape models have Ford’s capless refueling system that automatically seals when the driver removes the filler nozzle. The system reduces evaporative emissions, and eliminates an unnecessary piece of hardware.

Roll stability control is now standard. The system uses gyroscopic sensors to measure both yaw and roll, and takes measures as necessary to reduce the risk of rollovers. Read the rest of this entry »