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Originally Posted by mlmurray13
I am seriously considering getting the Escape Hybrid 4WD and was wondering if anyone had any advice or comments?
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Advice:
1. Seriously consider buying the Ford Escape Hybrid (FEH), it is a great vehicle.
- Escape has been rated excellent by Consumer Reports for the last couple years and the FEH has very favorable reviews with good hybrid system reliability record for a year now.
- FEH currently has negative depreciation, where Kelly Blue Book lists higher price for a used 2005 FEH than original purchase price.
- FEH gets ~150% better fuel economy compared to Escape V6 and you could conserve a significant amount of gas, especially if you utilize hybrid driving techniques listed on this site, but don't expect to get EPA rate unless you have ideal conditions.
- FEH is the cleanest SUV on the market, rated as Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV).
2. Special order from Ford Dealer to get the exact options you want.
- If you buy before Jan 1, 2006, the tax incentive is $2000 deduction that amounts to only ~$500 credit. If you take delivery in 2006, you will get tax credit of $2,600 for 2WD or $1,950 for 4WD.
- The 2006 FEH has more options available than 2005, such as moon roof and matching trim colors. Although there are not that many 2005 FEHs left.
- You may be able to drive a good deal, under MSRP, when you point out the Dealer will not lose money with it sitting on the lot. Also, although the FEH is in high demand and many Dealers have a wait list, there is no wait list for special orders.
Comments:
1. While the FEH has less towing capacity than standard Escape (~3000 lbs), it is rated for ~1000lbs, dependent on gross combined weight rating. This has been sufficient to tow my sailboat trailer and attach hitch mounted bike rack with 4 bikes. Hitches are now available to fit FEH, may buy online for ~$150.
2. If you have pets, it may be good to know the back compartment may be fitted with a divider fence. I have gone on family trips with my two Dalmatians riding back there.
3. After market rack accessories are available, such as Yakima, but cheaper if you don't get through Ford Dealer.
4. Downsides: The available storage compartments could be better; Escape seats could be designed more comfortable (lumbar support); and the optional 110VAC, 150Watt outlet is not worth the price (better off buying inverter with 300Watt+ for less than $100).
Good Hunting!
-Dan