Anyone have a Ford Escape Hybrid? (m)

[Debbi801]

Or even a regular Ford Escape?

Do you like it? Anything you don't like about it?

We're contemplating trading in my mini-van for the Escape Hybrid and I'd love to get some real reviews of it from people who have this SUV.

My husband has a Prius and loves it, but it really isn't big enough for me and all the carting around I do with one kid in soft ball, another in lacrosse, one still in a car seat, etc. Plus, the Prius is a little tight in the back seat when all 3 kids are buckled in back there.

Thanks!
:hi:

[XNASA]

1. We own a Mazda Tribute, which is nearly identical to an Escape.

It's Mrs. XNASA's car actually.

We had a front wheel bearing go bad after 24,000 miles which was replaced for free under warrantee, but that's been the only problem.

Ours is front-wheel drive only and since it's a unibody vehicle and has all independent suspension it rides like a tall car or wagon, not like a truck. Very crisp handling but it does tend to wander a bit on the highway because the wheelbase is on the short side. The road noise on the highway is louder than a car too. But it's nice and roomy, especially the backseat. Cargo room is good.

Mrs. XNASA is very happy with it. It's got heated leather and a sunroof. She calls it her "Zoom-Zoom".

Personally, if I were looking for a Cute Ute Hybrid, I'd head for the nearest Toyota dealership.

[mduffy31]

2. I would look at the Highlander Hybrid

I understand it is better. Consumer Reports wasn't that impressed with the Escape Hybrid. They liked the regular Escape, my mom loves hers.

[Debbi801]

4. The highlander is just out of our reach price-wise....

Thanks to the company I work for, I can get the Ford Escape Hybrid for dealer cost. Can't do that with the Highlander. That makes the price difference HUGE.

Otherwise, that is what we'd look at. We have friends with a highlander hybrid and they love it.

[LeftyMom]

3. I think it'd be a bit small for three kids

Especially with one still in a car seat, since it's not very wide. Personally with three kids I'd much rather have a vehicle with a third row of seating, such as the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.

Here's a review from a mother's perspective:

http://www.motherproof.com/review_detail5.asp?ID=115

[Debbi801]

5. Thank you for that review. It was an interesting read. (nt)