The Ford Escape Hybrid was originally released in 2004, and is a gas-electric hybrid. It has the most advanced hybrid system on the market, which allows it to run on gas, electric, or a combination of both. Its 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine might not seem like enough power, especially since it is a hybrid vehicle, but it has the feel of a regular V6.

New and Improved
The 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid version received an external renovation in order to make it more aesthetically pleasing. Inside, Ford takes “green” a step further as it introduces sustainable seat fabric that looks good and is environment-friendly. If you are concerned about safety, its side and head curtain airbags are now standard. For comfort and fun there is automatic climate control and an MP3 player input jack to plug in your ipod. The optional navigation system runs off a DVD instead of CDs this year and has a larger display with a touchscreen interface.

Standard Features
This hybrid vehicle is perfect for those that want to save money on gas (30 miles-per-gallon), and save the planet, while still having the conveniences of an SUV. The 2008 version of the Ford Escape Hybrid compact SUV is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive (AWD). The AWD system for the hybrid is the same as for the standard gas Escape, so you lose nothing by going “green.”
Its standard features are typical components such as 16-inch alloy wheels, a power driver seat, power accessories and dual-zone automatic climate control.  Also standard is a four-speaker CD stereo with MP3 capabilities.
Optional Features
Optional additions to the 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid include a navigation system that has look high-tech look and feel. For those music lovers, there is a seven-speaker audio system with an in-dash CD changer. If you want to step up to the Premium Package, you will benefit from more creature comforts like leather upholstery, heated front seats, cargo cover, heated outside mirrors, a roof rack and rear parking sensors. If you do not need all those bells-and-whistles you can add options individually.
Why We Like It
The current version of the Escape Hybrid has improved its drivetrain, and the result is more power than the previous incarnations. It has 155 horsepower, and you won’t feel cheated by going with the hybrid version instead of the standard gas Escape SUV.; Although it is a compact SUV, it seats 5 people comfortably and has a surprising level of back-seat room and comfort. With the seats folded down, there is 66 cubic feet of storage.

The rule of thumb says that with a “green” automobile is that you have to give in order to get the environmental benefits. However, with the 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid there is little, if any, you need to sacrifice to receive the environmental advantages.