2004 Ford Escape Hybrid review from North America
"The best choice for fuel economy in a long-distance vehicle where 4WD or AWD is required"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Water pump replaced at 100,000 miles, covered by extended warranty.
110V AC inverter produces RF noise at 740 on the AM radio, annoying only if you listen to a somewhat distant station broadcasting at 740. Unfortunately, that's me.
General comments?
Remarkably problem-free and well designed, especially considering that I have one of the first Escape Hybrids ever built.
Factory Continental Eco tires have low rolling resistance to improve mileage and are long lasting, but they are hard and noisy. Replaced with traditional tires for a quieter, more comfortable ride at a loss of a little more than 1 mpg.
Comfortable on long drives, though definitely not as cushy as my former Toyota Highlander. The only thing I would change is to add a cushion on the driver's door arm rest.
Recommended Reviews:
  | Very nice small SUV with some nice special touches |
| 2003 - Escape XLT DURATEC 24 VALVE V6 Well balanced and solid SUV |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model Year | 2005 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | Automatic |
| Performance marks | |
| Reliability marks | |
| Comfort marks | |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | |
| Distance when acquired | 10 miles |
| Most recent distance | 105000 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota Highlander |
| Date of Entry | 20th May, 2008 |