Considering getting an Escape.........

[SD44]

My wife wants an Escape, we'll probably get something used from a 2002-2006 model.

What engines came in them?

[DoctorCAD]

3.0 V6 or 2.3 I4

[SD44]

is the 3.0 the Duratec aluminum engine, or the ole cast iron engine? I'm always leery of aluminum engines.

[deimos]

the 3.0L duratec is a great engine, they are known for being very reliable, just about every engine manufacturer is switching to aluminum blocks.

[GaryG]

Don't forget the 2.3 Atkinson cycle engine in the '05 and newer Escape Hybrid. Just ordered a 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid (FEH), which has an all new 2.5L Atkinson engine. The 2.3L is now discontinued and will be replaced with a higher efficient variable intake valve cam timing engine with 17 more HP. The regular gas version will have a one mpg increase in mileage with an all new 6 speed automatic transaxle. The V6 will have 30 more HP for '09, and can come with the 6 speed auto also.

[neilcrumpton]

GaryG - I'm thinking of getting the 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid - any idea when it will be released? Thanks!

[GaryG]

Originally Posted by neilcrumpton

GaryG - I'm thinking of getting the 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid - any idea when it will be released? Thanks!

That's the big question with all of us buying the '09 Escape Hybrid.

FEH and MMH
2009 Initial Order Acceptance: 04/17/08
2009 Production Scheduling Begins: 05/15/08
2009 Production Start Up: 06/23/08
We've confirmed you can order one since 4/17/08, I ordered mine 4/22/08.

On 5/15/08, Ford is expected to begin scheduling, but we're hearing hybrids are being delayed till October. It's been said that the FEH/MMH will not be on the streets till November. I'm hoping this information is only for fleet sales and retail sales for Hybrids will start after the 6/23/08 production date.

Dealers have been taking orders for the FEH since 4/17/08, but their limited to an allotment of so many units. People have reported buying at the X Plan price with a pin number. Some dealers will not sale their allotted FEH's at X Plan, and are asking up to $5,000 above MSRP. I used a Broker who got me MSRP with no other dealer fees from a large dealer in Miami. My order was a Black FWD FEH Limited with Navigation at a MSRP of $33,725. I'm also hearing most of the FEH's are going to the Green States like California first.

If you wait any longer to order, you may not see a FEH on a lot for sale at anything less than MSRP and over. Finding the color and options you want may be hard also. I ordered mine hoping to get the tax incentive before the tax break ends or is reduced due to the limited sales of the FEH/MMH.

I recently joined the Blue Oval Forum to access a link to the Escape Ordering Guide. Many people at that site are posting their buying experiences at dealerships as well as the price their paying.