2007 Ford Escape Hybrid FWD

Pros

The Performance/Nav option makes you aware of how your driving affects economy

Cons

Not enough front stowage places, but I have the extra power outlets at the base of the dash

I enjoy driving it and have put 27,000 miles on it in 1 year and 9 months.

1) Great Gas mileage. Don't judge the car by the initial gas mileage that you might receive, but wait until after the engine is fully broken in. I received significant mileage increases at 3,000 miles and at 21,000 miles. Mileage jumped remarkably and I calculate my gas mileage at EVERY fill up (yes, I'm compulsive). I love my Atkinson engine.

2) Sparse on personal stowage space. Don't buy the optional power outlets located where the base of the dash meets the front of the center console. This is valuable real estate and you'll be losing the only small stowage area that the car has.

3) Great User Info system. The Navigation system and mileage performance option is fantastic and makes you aware of the single biggest factor to increasing mileage, the knowedge that how you drive affects your mileage economy. This device displays it to you in real time. While I thought this feature would be "fluff", I was completely wrong and didn't think that I'd enjoy this feature as much as I really do. Kudos Ford

4) Good maintainability, but pricey. Easy to change oil, but the oil filters are a catridge type that cost $13 each. Why couldn't they use standard spin off filters?

5) Another item to maintain. The special Hybrid battery air filter costs $40, but I removed and cleaned mine rather than replaced it. Note: This is not the engine air filter, but the filter in the left rear battery vent "snorkel"

6) Learn the tricks to better mileage.
Avoid jackrabbit starts and drive on the batteries as much as possible.
Reduce gas engine use - The software program can save gasoline energy while driving by shutting the engine off during certain circumstances and you must learn these to optimize efficiency. When the speed is below 40 miles per hour and no load (i.e. not accelerating), lightly tap the brake once and you'll notice the engine will turn off. I've gotten great mileage by doing this, nearly 39mpg

7) I love the engine with its high compression ratio, I can still feed it regular gas and get the same performance. Shizzle!

8) A bundle of Technology - ECVT transmission; no gears, no clutches, no problems!

Ford has showcased their high technology successfully!
As a prior 15 year Toyota owner, I'm now glad that their dealership shafted me with a $600 "tune up" that I verbally declined yet they performed and charged me for. I'll never go back to Toyota again, because I have found a replacement.