Escape gets tweak or two

News that gasoline prices have begun edging back up after weeks of unprecedented declines doesn’t necessarily mean that we’ll see $4 a gallon or even $3 anytime soon.

But we all know that the break we’ve had recently, with prices down around $1.50, won’t last long, and that we still need to consider buying vehicles with good fuel economy as a hedge against the inevitable.

Among the choices of fuel-efficient models are the growing numbers of gasoline-electric hybrids, and for those who need an SUV for everyday driving, the compact Ford Escape and its clone, the Mercury Mariner, are good choices.

These aren’t new hybrids; they’ve been around since 2006. But for 2009, Ford has updated the entire Escape/Mariner line, including the hybrid models.

Fuel economy of the hybrids has increased slightly for ‘09, with EPA estimates now 34 miles per gallon city/31 highway for the front-wheel-drive versions, up from 34/30 for 2008.

All-wheel-drive models now are rated at 29 city/27 highway, up from 28/27 for the previous version.

Even the gasoline-only Escape and Mariner models for 2009 have better fuel economy, thanks to new engine and transmission combinations that also boosted their power.

The gas models rank among the best for fuel economy in the compact SUV segment, with EPA ratings of 20 mpg city/28 highway with the base four-cylinder engine, six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive.

Ford said the highway fuel economy was increased by 2 mpg by replacing last year’s four-speed automatic with the new six-speed. It saves gasoline by providing two overdrive gears.

Other fuel-efficiency measures are used on the ‘09 models —- hybrids and gasoline-only models —- including refined aerodynamics and new low-rolling-resistance tires, Ford said.

For instance, the new 16-inch Michelin Latitude Tour tires have “a unique mold design, reduced weight and a new-generation tread pattern optimized for reduced fuel consumption,” the automaker said.

The actual amount of fuel savings provided by these tires was not given, but many automakers are adding lower-resistance tires to their lineups as part of their overall efforts to boost fuel economy.

Less rolling resistance means the engine doesn’t have to work as hard to move the car, which results in less fuel being burned.

Aerodynamic refinements to the new Escape and Mariner include a redesigned front bumper spoiler and new rear tire spoilers, Ford said.

The rear spoilers are being used for the first time on a Ford SUV, the automaker said.

The base engine for the 2009 gasoline-only models is a new 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder with variable cam timing, another technology designed to increase fuel economy. This feature also enhances performance at the same time.

It replaced last year’s 2.3-liter four-cylinder, raising horsepower to 171 from 153.

The torque rating is identical to the horsepower.

Ford says the new four-cylinder has drive-by-wire electronic throttle control, which replaces the manual connection between the accelerator pedal and engine.

The system uses a “control unit that calculates the optimal throttle position from a number of sensors,” Ford said.

The result is yet another small increase in fuel efficiency, the company said.

Optional for 2009 is a revised 3.0-liter V-6 engine that boosts horsepower by 20 percent, to 240, and highway fuel economy by 2 mpg, Ford says.

EPA ratings for two-wheel drive V-6 models are 18 city/26 highway.

A five-speed manual gearbox remains standard and will continue to offer the best fuel economy. But the ratings for 2009 remained the same as last year’s, even with the boost in power.

The EPA estimates are 22 city/28 highway.

The hybrids come with a continuously variable automatic transmission; no manual is offered nor is the six-speed automatic. That’s because the CVT is necessary to integrate the hybrid’s electric power into the mix with the special 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson cycle engine used only on the hybrid.

A plus is that the power of the hybrid models, with their four-cylinder engine and electric-motor combo, is about equal to that of the V-6 gasoline-only model. There is plenty of zip for freeway merges and passing, even with the vehicle loaded with kids and stuff.

Also new for 2009: The hybrids are able to run up to 35 mph on their electric motors; the 2008 models were designed to switch to their gasoline engines at 25 mph.

The ‘09 Escape and Mariner also get Ford’s new capless refueling system, which eliminates the traditional screw-on fuel-tank cap.

In its place is a spring-loaded built-in flap that pushes out of the way when the pump nozzle is inserted. This is designed to help reduce vapor loss at the pump, which both saves gasoline and reduces vapor emissions into the atmosphere, at least in theory.

There is seating for up to five in the Escape and Mariner; no third row is offered.

Even adults can sit comfortably in the back seat, although as with most vehicles, it’s more comfortable for two than three.

Standard on all models are anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control.

Electric power steering is standard on all models.

Chassis upgrades have been made to improve steering response and ride comfort, Ford said.

Our tester was the new Escape Hybrid Limited model, which was added to the lineup for 2009 ($31,635 plus $725 freight for front drive and $33,385 for all-wheel drive).

It comes with 16-inch, six-spoke bright aluminum wheels; exterior chrome accents; an audio system with six-disc CD changer; chrome and ebony interior touches; and a luxury package that brings ambient lighting, heated front leather bucket seats, a power sunroof and retractable cargo cover.

Base prices for the Escape Hybrid are $29,305 (plus freight) for front drive and $31,055 for all-wheel drive.

FORD ESCAPE

The 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid package:

Compact, five-passenger, four-door, four-cylinder gasoline/electric powered, front- or all-wheel-drive, hybrid sport utility vehicle.

Highlights: Redesigned last year and updated again this year, the Escape and its Mercury clone, the Mariner, give Ford Motor Co. two practical hybrid SUVs.

This is a roomy and comfortable small-family sport utility with excellent fuel economy afforded by the gasoline-electric hybrid power system.

Negatives: Can get pricey with the new Limited trim and options.

Engine: 2.5-liter Atkinson cycle inline four-cylinder gasoline engine and separate electric motor.

Transmission: Continuously variable automatic.

Power: 153 HP (gasoline engine); 58 HP (electric motor).

Length: 174.7 inches.

Curb weight: 3,669 pounds (2WD), 3,829 pounds (AWD).

Cargo volume: 29.2 cubic feet (behind rear seat); 66.3 (rear seat folded).

Towing capacity: 1,000 pounds.

Electronic stability control: Standard.

Side air bags: Standard front seat-mounted and side-curtain for both rows.

Fuel capacity/type: 15.1 gallons/unleaded regular.

EPA fuel economy: 34 city/31 highway (2WD); 29/27 (AWD).

Base prices: $29,305-$33,385 plus $725 freight.

Price as tested: $36,505 (AWD, including freight and options).