While I understand your point (i.e., that there will always be some sort of change, meaning I can forever wait for a vehicle), my post wasn't trying to be facetious.

As I wrote, I was considering an '07 FEH, when I read on this board that the new '08 models were coming out in early '07! And that these models would be much different. Then came the early photos. It became clear from the information available, that the '08 model was a far better match to what I was seeking than the '07 model.

I am happy with what I've seen of the '08 model, but I thought I'd ask here in the event (however unlikely it may be) that there was another big change coming that would either revitalize the inside in terms of creature comforts or in design or in the actual engine.

One poster mentioned a different engine, but as that appears to be a rumor and it appears there will be no major changes to the FEH for a while, I feel far more confident looking at this '08 model for a real purchase.

 

IMHO, the tax credit law will expire before Ford ships enough hybrids to loose the credit by simple sales volume.

You mean the 2009 getting the Sync ? With Sync being a "limited availability" option on Ford's other vehicles, I think Ford would need to clear that up, before even thinking of offering it on even more models. I mean, just think of it, would you select an option that might add another 6 weeks of delay, over the already ridiculous 16 week wait?

 

The rumor has some creditability due to the industry expectation that Ford will be shutting down the old plant that makes the Escape's gas I4 and V6 engines.

Though, on the flip side, the new plant that makes the assumed replacement engines, doesn't have enough extra capacity to take on supporting yet another Ford model series.

IMHO, all this really is based on Ford's sales. If sales continue to drop, Ford will need to save money, and one possibly way, it to shut down that old engine plant. Of course, with Ford's sales dropping, that other newer engine plant will have spare capacity (due to fewer sales of the models it currently supports), and might then be able to take on supporting the Escape too.

 

As of September 30, the cumulative total of qualified Ford hybrid sales was 38,743. At current sales rates they could hit 45,000 by year's end and 60,000 by Q3 2008. If so, the credit will begin phase-out late next year. If battery supply gets better and they roll out the FFH, it will be sooner.

 

Yea, not to mention adding Microsoft software into what appears to be a bug-free vehicle Would have been easier for them to just add an iPod connector to the stereo like the Scions and others have... albeit without the voice control.

 

Very early in 2007, a Ford spokesperson (If I remember correctly it was a women) stated Ford was commited to bringing electronic stability control to the hybrid vehicles in the future. The street rumor placed the 2009 model year as when electronic stability would be a reality on the hybrid vehicles.

We know Toyota and Lexus offers electronic stability. However, keep in mind their 4WD/AWD version is different from Ford in which they rely on a second electric motor to power the rear wheels.

 

Wait until they introduce the '09 to see if there are any changes and then buy the '08 because it will be heavily discounted (maybe given gas prices). However, you won't get the selection you'll get now. You're in such a pickle.

 

The steering wheel audio controls will be out in December production--heard from a reliable insider.

 

****, I could use those on mine. Just don't tell me they will make a grey/black interior too!

Those are the types of improvements I'd expect with the next updates though...