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The Bottom Line:
The 2008 Ford Escape doesn’t accelerate quickly even with the V-6 engine, and handling is more SUV than crossover.
Around The Web
“smooth ride and agile handling make for enjoyable driving”
“Sadly, the ride quality is more trucklike than carlike”
“acceleration and braking do have weaknesses
“At the Test Track, Disappointment and Confusion”
COMFORT AND QUALITY | 8 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
the cabin is very quiet
Canadian Driver
moves in near silence on electric power alone
Cars.com
doesn't match levels of refinement offered by many of its…competitors
Kelley Blue Book
Just Like Grandma's Sofa
Mother Proof
feels like a project...[from] a company desperately trying to save money
New York Times
The 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid is reasonably quiet and comfortable, if not luxurious transportation.
Some reviewers complained about interior materials. Kelley Blue Book says the 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid’s interior "doesn't match levels of refinement offered by many of its…competitors," while the New York Times says the Escape "feels like a project...[from] a company desperately trying to save money."
The recycled materials used to upholster the seat are also source of controversy; some sources praised them, and others, such as Mother Proof, cursed them: "driving it felt like trying to [get] 'Flintstone' Grandma's plastic sofa up to speed on the highway." In contrast, Automotive.com raved that "this is one of Ford's best interiors in years in terms of the look and feel of materials used."
Automotive.com also states that there is plenty of cushion to "prevent numbing and enough support to limit fatigue during longer drives," though larger-bodied people might find them a little tight. In other reviews of the gas-engine 2008 Ford Escape and in the experience of TheCarConnection.com, the Escape’s interior has good room and comfort for four adults, though five are too tight—and there’s no third-row seat option.
In response to many complaints received by the Ford Motor Company regarding noise, more than one source noted by TheCarConnection.com reported substantial improvements in noise levels. Cars.com states that because of interior improvements, "the Escape is 12 percent quieter at 80 mph."
Not all reviews consulted by TheCarConnection.com agreed with this assessment; ConsumerGuide reports an "intrusive roar from the tires and suspension" over rough pavement (probably no more than from any other vehicle, but more noticeable on the Escape Hybrid due to the near-silent operation of the electric motor) and that "wind noise isn't well muffled." Although ride comfort is "reasonably comfortable," this source says that the "unsophisticated suspension...allows big bumps and sharp ridges to register with a jolt."
Conclusion
The 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid’s comfort is good, but the quality of its materials and noise levels are caveats.
