Ford Escape Hybrid

stevedebi

"Additionally it is my firm belief that FWD and front torque biased AWD vehicles are patently UNSAFE for driving in wintertime roadbed conditions."

In my opinion, the only vehicles UNSAFE for driving in wintertime roadbed conditions are those vehicles where the owner thinks that his/her vehicle will enable the driver to escape from "stupid winter driving tricks". A careful and prepared driver can negotiate just about any plowed road, with experience and caution. And having a vehicle that makes one more cautious can be a good thing.

And no, it can't be converted to RWD. The differential is intended for short time use, and would overheat under the proposed circumstances.

wwest

"And having a vehicle that makes one more cautious can be a good thing...."

Only if the driver is AWARE of the need to be more cautious.

IMMHO most buyers with FWD or front biased AWD haven't a CLUE.

Otherwise there would be no market for such a patently unsafe product as a FWD or front biased AWD, most especially an SUV.

wwest

First of all, with no drive to the front wheels and therefore no potential for driveline "windup" or tire scrubbing, why would the "diff'l" overheat?

Additionally is it really a center differential? Or like the AWD Chrysler T&C minivan just a "solid" ring and pinion coupling with an electromagnetic clutch to connect the rear driveline?

The literature certainly implies that the torque apportioning to the rear can be, is, reduced while turning and that indicates some method of modulating the coupling coefficient to the rear driveline.

stevedebi

"IMMHO most buyers with FWD or front biased AWD haven't a CLUE. "

Well, count me in there, I drove FWD in the snow for several years. Without problems.

wwest

"Snow" comes in many varieties.

Freshly fallen "DRY" (COLD!) snow is a lot like a sandy beach insofar as traction is concerned, NO problem.

Pack it down or warm it up slightly so it will pack down and now you will have a challenging surface.

stevedebi

"Pack it down or warm it up slightly so it will pack down and now you will have a challenging surface."

Yup, been there, driven that with FWD. Safely.

jdw334

I have been reading quite a bit about the Lexus 400h on here. I noticed in the Lexus there is a way to disable the A/C coming on with the defrost. I am just wondering if anyone knows if you can do that in the FEH. I would love to disable that feature so in the winter I can still defrost but that it will go to electric only.

syuteur

I tried to make a special order on 2007 FEH awd yesterday here in Canada and they said that Ford is suspending the production to retool for a new design ?! Is that correct ? anyone has updates on that subject ? They said that Ford is about to make a special annonce on that ...

thanks

gagrice

Welcome to the Forum,
I think they have too many in inventory. They may not want to take special orders. I did a quick check at the dealer closest to me. Drew Ford has 24 Escape Hybrids in stock. All 2007 models. Is it easy to buy in the states and take back to Canada? There is a $1000 rebate right now on the hybrids stateside. You could take a vacation to San Diego and pick up the one of your choice and have a nice time. It is going to be 80 degrees today. Clear and warm.

mecheng1

The 2008 model will have a "refreshed" design. It has been reported that the 08 models are expected in showrooms in March of '07. That means that the KC plant is probably shutting down soon to re-tool and that Ford would be cutting off any custom orders. If true, this is Ford's originally planned sequence of events (not be the result of an over-inventory condition) and would not need a special announcement. It might mean there will be good deals on the '07s as March approaches.

celtviper

We have an 06 Escape Hybrid 4WD and just had our first oil change. At about the same time the weather here turned to Winter and the temps dropped. Also about the same time we lost about 1-2 MPG. I'm wondering if the decrease is due to the colder temps or did something happen with the 10,000 mile oil and filter change. Our driving habits have not changed. Anyone with a similar change in MPG or any ideas why this happened?

Thanks.

Dan

mecheng1

1 - 2 mpg is typical and probably good compared to reports of 4 - 5 mpg drops from folks in significantly cold climates (CO, BC, etc.). The ICE runs a lot more to:
-charge the HVBattery because regen braking is limited as the temps fall below 32F
-keep the two O2 sensors at a minimum temperature
-warm the car, or when the selector is on defrost

celtviper

Thank you very much for the info and the quick reply. I feel better knowing that I was on the right track and it's not a problem with the vehicle. We'll just have to wait for Spring and Summer.

Thanks again.

Dan

djbescape

Since I purchased my preowned 2006 4wd hybrid escape, the leftmost instrument that shows whether the battery pack is "assisting" or "charging" has never moved. My dealership says that nothing is wrong and it's supposed to stay in the middle/level. I would like to hear if other owners' gauges move from top to bottom when the battery is assisting and charging. thanks.

jdw334

When you push on the brake the gauge should move into the charge area, and if you are in electric only mode it should move into the assist area. Also if you push on the gas pedal hard (ie like passing someone on the highway) it should move up into assist. My gauge on my 2006 only stays in the middle when I am on the highway. I would make sure your dealership is hybrid certified.

3screwsloose

The needle on our '06 Mariner Hybrid rarely moves. We have better luck when viewing the screen on the NAVI system which indicate the status of the electric/batt/engine utilization.

jdw334

Really? My needle is moving all the time I am driving except on the highway where it stays in the middle

djbescape

thanks everyone!

stevedebi

From the LA Times:

"The redesigned 2008 Ford Escape now arriving in showrooms is not all it could have been. In the fastest-growing, most competitive segment in the market — that is, small SUVs/crossovers, including this-minute designs like the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-7, Hyundai Santa Fe, Honda CR-V and the coming-soon Saturn Vue — the Escape gets by with an exterior and interior remodeling, a fluffing of the equipment list, a slightly lower base price and bigger wheels. The powertrains and chassis bits remain fundamentally the same as when the Escape debuted six years ago. "

Read the article (free registration may be required)

mikeharper

A while ago there was some hoopla about a E-85 ford escape hybrid. anyone hear of anything recently?

lv031170

I test drove all of the competitors listed in the review and found that none of them matched the new Escape in interior space and comfort. I found the CR-V, in particular, very cramped and confined.
Besides, the RAV-4 and CR-V come close to the Hybrid's gas mileage but they are not quite there.
I understand the need/want to change to the new the power train but this would not effect the Hybrid anyway. The gasoline version will get Ford's new 3.5L V-6 and 6-Speed tranny for 2009 but I'm pretty sure the Atkinson I-4 and electric motor are jot going to be monkeyed with too much for the Hybrid. So, I wonder how any of this applies to Hybrids?

Karen_S

A reporter for a weekend news program is looking to interview consumers in the Los Angeles area who are interested in purchasing a hybrid. Please reply to ctalati@edmunds.com no later than Thursday, March 22, 2007 with your daytime contact info.

yelorose

I'm thinking of buying a 2008 FEH or MMH. I need a tow hitch in order to install a scooter lift for my mom. Is there any good info out there on that?

Thanks!

celtviper

Check with your Ford dealer. Ford makes a receiver hitch especially for the Escape Hybrid. You have to make a cut in the rear facia and there's supposed to be no drilling or welding required.

explorerx4

try 'etrailer.com'. they have multiple brands to choose from. installation instructions are available too.

yelorose

Really? Ford doesn't offer a towing package on the 08 FEH.

mecheng1

No, the motors and the eCVT are warranteed for 8yr/100k and they were never designed to handle the standard 3500lb towing load. I believe it is rated at 1000lb (it will do more but the components are not sized for that type of effort - on a regular basis) Towing is best left to the non-hybrid Escapes. There are several aftermarket hitches (Class III) that fit well (below the rear facia) and have special accommodation for the refrigerant lines that pass to the rear to cool the HVBattery.

Karen_S

A reporter from a large local newspaper is looking to speak to owners of the 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid. Please provide your daytime contact info to ctalati@edmunds.com no later than Monday, May 14, 2007.

tinycadon

Does the new 08 Escape allow you to use the recirculation button on the heat now? In the past you could only use it for the A/C.

dean58

It certainly appears that you can use it with heat in my '08 Hybrid. I pushed the recirculate button when the heat was on and the light lit up so I assume it works that way. I didn't look in the manual.

carysbluesky

I have an 06; get 31 MPH, no more, no less. On the open road you're better off with a small 6 vs. 4 (lower RPM better top-end mileage. Remember, the advantage to a hybrid is in stop and go traffic wherein the engine shuts down when slowing below 25 mph; not good in hot summer wx wherein you need the engine to run the A/C.
PS Tax break is only for a NEWLY bought hybrid.

carysbluesky

for the 06 Ford Escape Hybrid. Info needed regarding the replacement of bulb and lense. :confuse:

carysbluesky

It moves in both directions when the battery assists or the battery is being charged! I've learned to take what I'm told at the dealer with a grain of salt. Their knowledge and training is less than stellar. I asked when the hybrid is due for its first oil change. I was told: 3k,6k,9k and 10k. Does the computer agree with any of the above? Yes, 6k because its been programmed for the Escape, not the hybrid, which is 10k

carysbluesky

Ordered a lense on-line for $20, delivery included, for the fog light on the 06 Escape Hybrid, which compares to $90 at the dealer. PS The lense comes with replacement instructions.

dave_f_n

Does anyone have any ideas or suggestions to help solve the high pitched whistle that kicks in around 60 mph at between 1600 and 2000 RPM's on my '08 AWD Escape Hybrid. The noise is most obvious at 1700 RPM on the flat going 65 mph. So far the dealer has replaced bolts and repositioned the front grill, told me it is a normal hybrid noise, sent me out on two different test drives and now wants to test drive another hybrid similar to mine. My ears tell me it isn't a wind noise because I can modulate the sound by playing with the accelerator. Any other owners having the same problem? If anyone knows of a top notch Escape Hybrid mechanic in the Northeast, please send along the information. Other suggestions are also appreciated.

dtippery

Hi Sgt Tip here you didn't say where you got the lense from . :confuse: ">

queenfan

I have an '08 FEH 2WD and it's doing exactly the same thing. My mechanic said it wasn't normal, but he hasn't had a chance to look at it yet. Call Ford to get the best qualified dealer in your area.

dave_f_n

Thanks for the info...my dealer has asked the NE Regional tech person to put Whistler on his list. We haven't reach the point that it is not just a normal hybrid noise. Please post any information as it becomes available. I'll do the same.
Any other '08 Escape Hybrid owners with the same problem? (post 1390)

raptor3

I am new to the forum and looking into purchasing this vehicle. I test drove one and liked it. My question centers around the electric assist going over 40 mph. At highway speeds, does the electric motor kick in when accelerating, or does it only work at low speeds. The dealer indicated it works only up to about 30mph and then does not kick in. The adverts indicate it gives assists at any speed. Who is right. Thanks for the help.

zeeman84

Yes, the electric motor does kick in to assist the gasoline engine at highway speeds.

mecheng1

Those poor salemen at the dealer...they're always the last to know.....

The electric motor(s) can assist at almost all speeds.
The electric motor(s) powers the vehicle entirely by itself any time the vehicle goes in reverse.
The Escape can stay in Electric Vehicle (EV) mode, (gas engine off):
1) up to around 25 mph in "D"
2) up to around 40 mph in "L"

After several months of operation, the driver can become skilled at getting the FEH to the EV mode and having it stay there. A driver that "re-learns" how and when to accelerate and brake can easily get above the EPA mpg estimates on the window sticker.

mschmal

Its not like we ever have any on the lot to play with.

I am at the point where I think Ford should be taking some heat for the low production numbers.

Mark.

raptor3

Thanks for the response. Makes sense but those guys need to do their homework. Based on what a salesman told my wife, we had a disagreement. Typical, "so now you think you are smarter than the salesman!" arguement Oh well, I thought I was right but thats an arguement that is difficult to win. I am still looking and the more I see the more I like. I would be moving from a Santa Fe. I want a hybrid but don't want a small one. This looks to be a good compromise.

ladyblue

Hi All,

A few years ago I downsized from a Dodge Ram to a PT Cruiser, and now I'm looking for 4WD without the huge gas bill. This looks like a good choice.

Tell me true - how does it perform on long highway trips? I frequently drive 220 from our city home to our country home, and I'm in the habit of setting my cruise control at 75 for most of the trip.

How does the Escape accelerate? How does it do with prolonged, sustained speeds? Is it a comfortable ride for 3-4 hour trips?

Thanks!

mecheng1

I have had a 4WD FEH for over a year now. If I get on the hiway and set my cruise at 75...that is the lowest mpg I will ever get in the hybrid....probably around 26 -27 mpg. At hiway speeds, you may notice very little difference from that of a gas-powered Escape. But what kind of mpg would you get in anything else of its size?? (Closest in mpg would be a Subaru? or 4-cyl RAV4?) If responsive power is your first priority...you need to look at a V6.

The electric motors do kick in to help if you "punch-it" to pass at hiway speeds. However, the way it is designed, the FEH will get the best FE driving around town for trips of 5 miles or more.

Just remember, once you are off the hiway, you will be saving lots of fuel and spewing-out less emissions.

As for riding comfort, that is subject to the experience of each individual....test drive any Escape to get a sense of that.

ladyblue

Thanks so much for the info.

Right now I'm probably getting in the mid-20's with my PT Cruiser on the long highway trips.

The problem is I'm spoiled. I drove V8 pickup trucks for years, then switched to a turbo Cruiser, so I'm used to having a lot of power when I hit the gas.

I love the Cruiser but the ground clearance is terrible for some of the roads I drive on at the country place. Oh, and let's not forget the deep, deep snow! I loved my Dodge Ram, but couldn't afford the gas anymore. I need something in between, and the FEH 4WD sound like the way to go.

I'll be test-driving this afternoon. We'll see how it goes.

cmuniz

Try a Subaru Forester XT - it has lots of power, AWD, gets in the mid 20's MPG and has better ground clearance than the PT Cruiser. Sounds like it's exactly what you are looking for.

mecheng1

Yes - I tend to steer folks towards the Forester...when they can't come around to the fact that the FEH is a true compromise between power and efficiency. The ICE on the FEH is even de-tuned (Atkinson cycle) so that there are points on the its power curve that "go flat"....this is where the drive train computer kicks in the electric motor...and you get much more power than a 4-cyl but not quite the same responsiveness as a V-6. When you first drive it - there are points that feel like it is struggling for power...and the ICE is.....but you have to get use to having the electric motor add a litte boost when you ask for it through the gas pedal position.

I have driven a real, locking hub 4x4 for years and I have been pleasantly surprised by the performance of the FEH in snow and loose footing. :shades:

I think some folks miss the overall experience and the 24/7 advantages of the hybrid....when they focus on the one feature that "they must have".

ladyblue

Well, I test drove the FEH, and it was very nice. Not "wow," but nice. Believe it or not, the salesdudes talked me out of it. I just don't do enough stop-n-go driving for it to be worth the added expense of the hybrid.

Thanks for the advice on the Forester. It happens to be on my list, along with the Jeep Patriot.

As a one-time former host of SUV's here at Edmunds, it's nice to see that there are still lots of helpful people on this site.

devomi

For what it is worth...I have a 2007 Escape hybrid FWD-12100 miles-I have had no problems with the snow (Michigan) and am getting low 30's on the highway. Mid-30's in the city. It is less in cold weather--but still much better than the other alternitives you are looking at, plus it is american made.