Wait for the Fusion Hybrid, which should be in dealers very soon. Many improvements over the Escape, including electric A/C (not available on the Escape).
I don't believe that the Fusion Hybrid will have AWD option.
Many studies have shown that if you drive less than 15-20,000 mile per year, you will not recover the additional costs of a hybrid (unless we go back to +$4/gallon gasoline).
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Peace, it's our only chance
1998 E150 Club Wagon, 4.6L Modular, E4OD
2007 Milan. 3.0L Duratec, Aisin 6 speed AW-F21
others I look out for
2007 Escape 2wd (the mini Pumpkin), 3.0L Duratec, CD4E
2008 Mazda3 5 door, 2.3L, 5 speed manual
My advice is worth every cent you pay for it ! | 
