Editing Ford Escape (section)

== <span class="anchor" id="first"></span><span class="anchor" id="1"></span><span class="anchor" id="2001"></span> First generation (2001) ==
{{See also|Mazda Tribute#EP|label 1=Mazda Tribute (first generation)}}
{{Infobox automobile
| name = First generation
| image = 2001-04 Ford Escape.jpg
| aka = {{Unbulleted list
 | [[Ford Maverick]] (Europe and China, 2001–2008)
 | [[Mazda Tribute]] (2000–2008)
 | Mercury Mariner (2004–2007)
}}
| production = {{Unbulleted list
 | April 2000 – December 2006
 | 2001–2012 (Asia-Pacific)
}}
| model_years = 2001–2007
| assembly = {{Unbulleted list
 | United States: [[Avon Lake, Ohio]] ([[Ohio Assembly|OHAP]]); [[Claycomo, Missouri]] ([[Ford Kansas City Assembly Plant|KCAP]])
 | Japan: [[Hōfu]] (Mazda)
 | Malaysia: [[Shah Alam]] (AMI)<ref name="Ford Escape Malaysia 2001">{{cite web |url=http://autoworld.com.my/news/2001/03/23/Ford-Escape-to-Go-On-Sale-in-August/ |title=Ford Escape to Go on Sale in August |publisher=autoworld.com.my |date=March 23, 2001 |access-date=May 16, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150516154833/http://autoworld.com.my/news/2001/03/23/Ford-Escape-to-Go-On-Sale-in-August/ |archive-date=May 16, 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref>
 | Philippines: [[Santa Rosa, Laguna]] ([[Ford Motor Company Philippines|Ford Philippines]])<ref name="TopGearPh">{{cite web |url=http://www.topgear.com.ph/features/columns/all-will-drive/ford-makes-business-decision-to-stop-manufacturing-cars-in-ph |title=Ford makes 'business decision' to stop manufacturing cars in PH |author=Sarne, Vernon |work=[[Top Gear Philippines]] |date=June 27, 2012 |access-date=June 3, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130510174200/http://www.topgear.com.ph/features/columns/all-will-drive/ford-makes-business-decision-to-stop-manufacturing-cars-in-ph |archive-date=May 10, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
 | Taiwan: [[Zhongli District|Zhongli]] ([[Ford Lio Ho]])
 | Vietnam: [[Hai Duong]] ([[Ford Vietnam]])
}}
| designer = [[Laurens van den Acker]] (1997)<ref>{{cite web|last1=Revill|first1=John|title=Maeda named new Mazda design boss, replacing van den Acker|url=http://autoweek.com/article/car-news/maeda-named-new-mazda-design-boss-replacing-van-den-acker|website=[[Automotive News]]|date=March 31, 2009|access-date=October 17, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thefreelibrary.com/Around-The-World+Engineering-a063565216|title = Around-The-World Engineering. – Free Online Library}}</ref>
| platform = [[Ford CD2 platform]]
| engine = {{Unbulleted list
 | '''[[Petrol engine|Gasoline:]]'''
 | 2.0&nbsp;L ''[[Ford Zeta engine#2.0|Zetec]]'' [[Straight-four engine|I4]]
 | {{nowrap|2.3&nbsp;L ''[[Ford Duratec engine#Duratec 23|Duratec 23]]'' I4}}
 | {{nowrap|3.0&nbsp;L ''[[Ford Duratec engine#Duratec 30|Duratec 30]]'' [[V6 engine|V6]]<ref name="specs1">{{cite web |url=http://www.fordvehicles.com/suvs/escape/features/specs/ |title=Ford Escape: Specifications & Capacities for 2009 Models |publisher=Ford Vehicles |access-date=May 2, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090411170555/http://www.fordvehicles.com/suvs/Escape/features/specs/ |archive-date=April 11, 2009 }}</ref>}}
 | '''[[Hybrid electric vehicle|Gasoline Hybrid]]:'''
 | 2.5 L ''[[Atkinson cycle]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]]
}}
| transmission = {{Unbulleted list
 | 5-speed ''[[Mazda G5M transmission|G5M]]'' [[Manual transmission|manual]]
 | 4-speed ''[[Ford CD4E transmission|CD4E]]'' [[Automatic transmission|automatic]]
 | 4-speed ''[[Mazda G4A-EL transmission|GF4AX-EL]]'' automatic
 | Hybrid: [[planetary gear]]
}}
| wheelbase = {{convert|103.1|in|mm|0|abbr=on}}
| length = {{Unbulleted list
 | 2001–04: {{convert|173.0|in|mm|0|abbr=on}}
 | 2005–07: {{convert|174.9|in|mm|0|abbr=on}}
}}
| width = {{convert|70.1|in|mm|0|abbr=on}}
| height = {{Unbulleted list
 | 2001–04: {{convert|69.1|in|mm|0|abbr=on}}
 | 2005–07: {{convert|69.7|in|mm|0|abbr=on}}
 | Hybrid: {{convert|69.7|in|mm|0|abbr=on}}
}}
| weight = {{Unbulleted list
 | 2WD: {{convert|3247|lb|abbr=on}}
 | 4WD: {{convert|3457|lb|abbr=on}}
}}
| successor = [[Ford Kuga]] (Europe)
}}

The first generation of Ford Escape was released in 2000 for the 2001 model year. It was jointly developed with [[Mazda]],<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2000-may-31-hw-35734-story.html |date=May 31, 2000 |title=Sibling SUVs deliver for Ford and Mazda |author=O'Dell, John |work=Los Angeles Times |access-date=February 10, 2025}}</ref> in which Ford owned a controlling interest, and was released simultaneously with the Mazda Tribute. Although the Escape and Tribute shared the same underpinnings constructed from the [[Ford CD2 platform]] (based on [[Mazda G platform#GF|Mazda GF underpinnings]]), the only panels common to the two vehicles were the roof and floor pressings. Engines and automatic transmissions were supplied by Ford, with Mazda providing the manual gearboxes. At first, the twinned models were assembled by Ford in the US for North American consumption, with Mazda in Japan supplying cars for other markets. This followed a long history of Mazda-derived Fords, starting with the [[Mazda B-Series|Ford Courier]] in the 1970s.

At the time, larger sport-utility vehicles tended to use [[pickup truck]]–based, [[body-on-frame]] designs. Other car makers, [[Jeep]], [[Toyota]] and [[Honda]] had been offering smaller [[unibody]] designs, the [[Jeep Cherokee (XJ)]], [[RAV4]], and [[CR-V]] respectively. [[Beam axle|Solid rear axles]] were commonly used on the full-sized truck-based SUVs and Jeep Cherokee due to their ability to carry heavy loads at the expense of a comfortable ride and good handling. Ford and Mazda decided to offer a car-like, [[unibody]] design with a fully [[independent suspension]] and [[rack and pinion]] steering similar to the RAV4 and CR-V in the Escape.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.edmunds.com/ford/escape/2001/road-test.html |title=2001 Escape First Drive |website=[[Edmunds.com]] |date=January 1, 1999 |access-date=February 19, 2015}}</ref> Although not meant for serious off-roading, a full-time [[all-wheel-drive]] (AWD) system supplied by [[Dana Holding Corporation|Dana]] was optional, which included a [[Locking differential|locking center differential]] activated by a switch on the dashboard.<ref>{{cite journal |title=Dana Gets 4WD Contract for Ford/Mazda SUVs |journal=Autoparts Report |date=April 25, 2000 |url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0UDO/is_22_13/ai_63676658 |access-date=April 15, 2008}}</ref> The AWD system normally sends most of the power from the engine to the front wheels. If slipping is detected at the front, more power will be sent to the rear wheels in a fraction of a second. The four wheel drive system was a newer version of Ford's "Control Trac" 4x4 system, dubbed the Control Trac II 4WD in the Escape. This system allowed the front wheels to receive 100% of the torque until a slip was detected. Using a Rotary Blade Coupling, the rear wheels could be sent up to 100% of the power in fractions of a second. When switching the system from "Auto" to "On," the front and rear axles are locked at a 50/50 split; the reaction time necessary to engage the rear wheels is reduced via an integrated bypass clutch. The Control Trac II system allows for a four-wheel drive vehicle without the use of a center differential. The entire braking system was built by [[Continental AG|Continental Teves]], including the [[Anti-lock braking system|ABS]] and various related suspension components.<ref>{{cite journal |title=Continental Teves Supplies Brake System To Ford Escape/Mazda Tribute |journal=Autoparts Report |date=June 2, 2000 |url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0UDO/is_2000_June_2/ai_63676728 |access-date=April 15, 2008}}</ref>

Ford also sold the first generation Escape in Europe and China as the '''Ford Maverick''', replacing the [[Nissan Terrano II|previous Nissan-sourced model]]. Then in 2004, for the 2005 model year, Ford's [[Mercury (automobile)|Mercury]] division released a rebadged version called the Mercury Mariner, sold mainly in North America. The first-generation Escape remains notable as the first SUV to offer a [[hybrid vehicle drivetrain|hybrid drivetrain]] option, released in 2004 for the 2005 model year to North American markets only. [[Complete knock down|CKD]] production began in 2002 at Ford Lio Ho Motor Co. in Taiwan for various Asian markets.<ref>{{cite journal|date=January 11, 2002|title=Dana Corp. To Supply 4wd System 2002 For Ford Escape in Taiwan – Brief Article|url=|journal=Autoparts Report}}<!-- Removed links to HighBeam (old and archive) which did not provide any useful info --></ref> One difference between the Tribute and the Ford Escape is that, in an effort to culture a sporty image, the Tribute's suspension is tuned for a firmer ride than the Escape.

Mainstream production of the first generation Escape/Tribute ended in late 2006. For Asia-Pacific markets, both received respective facelifts in 2006 and had production fully transferred to [[Ford Lio Ho]] in Taiwan. Extended production of the Mazda lasted until 2010, and until 2012 for Ford.

=== Ford Escape ===
[[File:Ford Escape (first generation) (rear), Serdang.jpg|thumb|right|2001–2007 Ford Escape]]

==== 2000–2004 (BA, ZA) ====
In North America, it slotted below the larger, truck-based [[Ford Explorer|Explorer]] in Ford's lineup, but was marginally larger than the small SUV offerings from [[Honda CR-V|Honda]] and [[Toyota RAV4|Toyota]].<ref>{{cite journal |last=Jamieson |first=Scott |title=Escaping debt: a reasonably priced alternative to full-sized pickups and SUVs, the Ford Escape has all the power and comforts required |journal=Canadian Forest Industries |date=August 2001 |url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3764/is_200108/ai_n8957516 |access-date=April 15, 2008}}</ref> Although it is technically a crossover vehicle, it is marketed by Ford as part of its traditional [[SUV]] lineup (Escape, Explorer, Expedition) rather than its separate crossover lineup (Edge, Flex) due to its more conventional SUV styling.

[[File:Ford Escape XLT interior.jpg|thumb|left|Right-hand drive interior]]

From 2001 to 2004, the Ford Escape was sold in Europe under the Maverick name, and replaced a rebadged version of the [[Nissan Mistral|Nissan Mistral/Terrano II]]. Only two versions were made, the 2.0&nbsp;L Zetec [[Straight-four engine|inline-4]] engine with [[manual transmission]] and 3.0&nbsp;L Duratec [[V6]] with [[automatic transmission]], both using gasoline. The absence of a diesel version did not help sales and the vehicle was temporarily discontinued in late 2003. However, the Maverick, in the UK for example, was only available in XLT trim. Plus, the dashboard was not the same as the US Escape; it was instead taken from the Mazda Tribute. The Maverick was reintroduced in 2005 in certain European markets with the Duratec V6 engine. The Maverick was assembled in Russia for the Russian market. As of 2006, the Maverick was no longer sold in Europe, leaving Ford without a compact SUV until the 2008 [[Ford Kuga]] was introduced. The Maverick was primarily designed for on-road use – sold with normal road tires, and to be used with [[front-wheel drive]] most of the time.

In the Philippines, Ford introduced the Escape in 2001. It originally came in two grades; "XLS" and "XLT", but by early 2004, Ford axed the "XLT" (all-wheel drive model) and replaced it with the newly-introduced "V6" trim. The "XLS" is powered by Ford's 2.3L Duratec inline-four engine paired to a 4-speed automatic. It came with keyless entry, fabric upholstery, 4 speakers, and six-CD audio system, among other features.<ref>{{Cite web |date=August 11, 2004 |title=2004 Ford Escape 2.3L XLS review |url=https://www.carguide.ph/2004/08/review-2004-ford-escape-23l.html?m=1 |website=[[carguide.ph]]}}</ref> The "V6" is powered by Ford's 3.0L V6 engine paired to a 4-speed automatic. It featured a power moon roof, leather upholstery, automatic seat adjusters and recliners, keyless entry, and immobilizer.<ref>{{Cite web |date=January 21, 2004 |title=2004 Ford Escape V6 review |url=https://www.carguide.ph/2004/01/review-2004-ford-escape-v6.html?m=1|website=[[carguide.ph]]}}</ref>

==== Safety ====
Crash-test results for the Escape have been mixed. In the New Car Assessment Program administered by the US-based [[National Highway Traffic Safety Administration]], the car received five out of five stars for driver protection and four out of five stars for passenger protection in a {{convert|35|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} frontal impact.<ref>{{cite web |title=New Car Assessment Program: 2001 Ford Escape |publisher=National Highway Traffic Safety Administration |year=2001 |url=http://www.safercar.gov/portal/site/safercar/menuitem.db847bd57e3dc1f885dfc38c35a67789/?vgnextoid=c95df2905bf54110VgnVCM1000002fd17898RCRD&model=6698 |access-date=April 16, 2008}}</ref> The SUV received five stars for both driver and rear passenger in the side impact test. In the [[Insurance Institute for Highway Safety]]'s {{convert|40|mph|km/h||abbr=on}} frontal offset test, 2001–2004 Escapes received a score of "Marginal".<ref>{{cite web |title=IIHS-HLDI: Ford Escape |publisher=IIHS-HLDI |year=2001 |url=http://www.iihs.org/ratings/rating.aspx?id=2 |access-date=April 16, 2008 |archive-date=May 14, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160514024857/http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings |url-status=dead }}</ref> In the side impact crash test, vehicles equipped with the optional side air bags received a score of "Good" in the {{convert|31|mph|km/h||abbr=on}}, while those without the optional air bags received a score of "Poor".<ref>{{cite web |title=IIHS-HLDI: Ford Escape |publisher=IIHS-HLDI |year=2003 |url=http://www.iihs.org/ratings/rating.aspx?id=244 |access-date=April 16, 2008 |archive-date=May 14, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160514024857/http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings |url-status=dead }}</ref>

All Escapes are equipped with a passive 'Immobiliser' called SecuriLock. This feature includes an [[Radio-frequency identification|RFID]] chip embedded in the key, which the car reads each time the driver inserts the key. If the key does not provide a valid confirmation signal, the vehicle does not run, even if the key is perfectly cut to match the original. Theft, injury, and collision losses reported to insurance companies for the Escape are among the lowest in its class.<ref>{{cite web |title=Injury, Collision, & Theft Losses 2001–2003 |publisher=HLDI |date=September 2004 |url=http://www.iihs.org/research/hldi/ictl_pdf/ictl_0904.pdf |access-date=April 16, 2008 |archive-date=October 20, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181020184408/https://www.iihs.org/iihs/topics |url-status=dead }}</ref>

==== North America ====
In the United States, all Escapes included standard equipment such as power windows with an automatic driver-door window, power door locks, [[anti-lock braking system]] (ABS), keyless entry, a folding rear-bench seat, 16-inch wheels, and air conditioning. In addition, an Escape buyer could choose from one of several different trim levels that were available, which included:

'''XLS''' (2001–2007): As the most basic trim level of the Escape, the XLS included: the 2.0-liter ''Zetec'' (2001–2004) and the 2.3-liter ''Duratec'' (2005–2007) engines, a five-speed manual transmission, 15-inch steel wheels, an AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD players (later, just a single-CD player in 2005, adding MP3 capability in 2007 along with SIRIUS) and four speakers, high-back front bucket seats, and cloth-and-vinyl seating surfaces. Options included 15- or 16-inch alloy wheels and the 3.0-liter V6 engine (2001–2004) mated to a four-speed automatic transmission (some of which were available as the '''XLS Popular Group'''). Four-wheel drive was not available with the four-cylinder engine for the 2004 model year.

'''XLT''' (2001–2007): As the top-of-the-line trim level of the Escape for 2001, and the most popular trim level of the Escape throughout its entire run (2001–2007), the XLT added the following equipment to the base XLS trim level: 16-inch alloy wheels, security alarm, cloth seating surfaces, and an enhanced interior. Options included an AM/FM stereo with a six-disc, in-dash CD changer (which later became standard equipment on all Escapes), a power sunroof, leather-and-vinyl-trimmed seating surfaces, and the seven-speaker premium audio system with amplifier and rear-mounted subwoofer. All 2002–2007 XLT and higher models came with a four-speed automatic transmission, with such models from 2002 to 2004 also coming standard with the 3.0-liter V6 engine.

'''XLT Sport''' (2002–2007): The XLT Sport was one of the more popular trim levels of the Escape from 2002 to 2007. It included all standard XLT equipment, plus V6 engine, automatic transmission, sport interior trim, and 16-inch machined alloy wheels. Options were the same as the standard XLT trim level, except that a power moonroof was not available until 2005.

'''Limited''' (2003–2007): As the top-of-the-line trim level of the Escape from 2003 to 2007, the Limited trim level added the following equipment to the XLT Sport trim level: an AM/FM stereo with six-disc in-dash CD/MP3 changer, the seven-speaker premium audio system with amplifier and rear-mounted subwoofer, low-back front bucket seats, leather-trimmed seating surfaces, dual power heated front bucket seats, a security system, color-keyed exterior trim, luxury interior trim, and a unique front grille. Options were limited, but included a power moonroof.

'''Hybrid''' (2005–2007): Based on the mid-range XLT trim level, the Hybrid included: the 2.3-liter ''Duratec'' inline-four engine with a [[continuously variable transmission]] and electric motor, power front bucket seats, low-back front bucket seats, enhanced cloth seating surfaces, unique 16-inch alloy wheels, and four-wheel disc brakes (front vented, rear solid). Options included a power moonroof, a unique integrated GPS navigational system with hybrid information system, [[Sirius Satellite Radio]], the seven-speaker premium audio system with amplifier and rear-mounted subwoofer, leather-trimmed seating surfaces, and a "two-tone" exterior paint scheme, with silver-painted lower exterior trim and front and rear bumpers.

==== 2004–2006 (ZB) ====
[[File:2005-'07 Ford Escape.JPG|thumb|right|2004–2006 Ford Escape (ZB)]]

The Escape and Tribute were updated in February 2004 for the 2005 model year with a new base engine (the 2.3&nbsp;L {{nowrap|[2261 cc, 140 cu in]}} [[Ford Duratec engine#Duratec 23|Duratec 23]]), which replaced the Zetec 2.0&nbsp;L {{nowrap|(1983 cc, 121 cu in)}} {{convert|127|hp|abbr=on}} four-cylinder. The most powerful engine remained the {{convert|200|hp|abbr=on}} Duratec 3.0 L {{nowrap|(2976 cc, 181 cu in)}} V6, with new engine mounts. Ford also added advanced airbag and seatbelt safety systems, an intelligent AWD system, and exterior minor changes, which included a redesigned front bumper. The 2005 model year was the first with an automatic transmission available on the base four-cylinder models. Models equipped with the V6 engine and four-wheel drive now featured four-wheel disc brakes (front vented, rear solid). The automatic shifter was moved from the column to the console on all models equipped with automatic transmissions. Ford also deleted the rear-seat recline feature to improve the safety of rear-seat occupants in the event of a rear crash.

==== {{anchor|ZC}}2006–2008 (ZC; Asia-Pacific) ====
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Previewed by the Ford Equator Concept in 2005, a revamped ZC Escape designed in Taiwan by [[Ford Lio Ho]] went on sale in the second half of 2006 for the Asian and Pacific markets (except South Korea, where the North American-market Escape is sold).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://autoincar.blogspot.com/2007/09/ford-thailand-has-launched-revised.html |title=Ford Thailand has launched a revised Escape suv |work=AUTO in CAR |publisher=Autoincar.blogspot.com |date=September 27, 2007 |access-date=May 2, 2009}} {{dead link|date=June 2012}}</ref> Major external changes included a redesigned front bumper, grille, headlights and hood, and rear bumper, as well as [[LED]] taillights.

On the inside, changes included a floor-mounted automatic-transmission shifter, in place of the column shifter, as well as a redesigned center stack containing audio and climate controls. Climate control is automatic on all models except the XLS. The Limited model also featured full color-coded bumpers, wheel arches and side moldings, as well as side mirrors with integrated LED indicators. Rear drum brakes have been replaced by disc brakes all round.

The 3.0&nbsp;L V6 has been modified to reduce fuel consumption by over 10%,{{citation needed|date=June 2012}} while the 2.3&nbsp;L 4-cylinder has improved midrange torque and an electronic throttle, as well as a slight increase in power to {{convert|109|kW|abbr=on}}. Both engines had been certified to meet [[Euro III]] emission regulations. A four-speed automatic carried over and was the sole transmission choice. Two different four-speed automatic transmissions were used, [[Ford CD4E transmission|CD4E]] for 3.0&nbsp;L V6 and [[Mazda G4A-EL transmission|GF4AX-EL]] for 2.3&nbsp;L 4-cylinder.

{{Clear}}

==== {{anchor|ZD}}2008–2009 (ZD; Asia-Pacific) ====
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Previewed by the Ford Escape Adventure Concept, the ZD Escape designed in Taiwan by Ford Lio Ho for Asia-Pacific markets went on sale in mid-2008, bringing numerous changes. In Australia, the V6 engine was dropped, leaving only the 2.3-liter four-cylinder.<ref>{{cite web |last=Brogan |first=Matt |date=August 25, 2008 |url=http://www.caradvice.com.au/15622/2008-ford-escape-xlt-review/ |title=2008 Ford Escape XLT Review |publisher=CarAdvice |access-date=May 13, 2016}}</ref>

The model range was also simplified, with only a single specification available. Changes to the body included an all-new front bumper, grille, headlights and bonnet, featuring an enlarged Ford emblem set upon a three-bar chrome grille. At the rear, new, slimmer tail lights were featured, which were arranged horizontally, rather than vertically. In addition, the B-pillar was now painted black, rather than body-colour. Compared with the previous model, all external bumpers, mirrors, and cladding were painted the same colour as the body (previously, this was only available on the upscale Limited model). Equipment levels have also improved. Compared to the base model ZC Escape, the ZD included standard side airbags, automatic climate control, 16" alloy wheels, and mirrors with integrated indicators. Unlike most other competitors in its class, curtain airbags and electronic stability control were not available.

==== 2009–2012 (ZD; Asia-Pacific) ====
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In 2009, a facelift of the ZD Escape developed by Ford Lio Ho brought about a new grille and front bumper. Chrome trim was completely removed from the grille, replaced with a smaller, black honeycomb grille as the last Ford Escape. In its final years, it was sold alongside its successor, [[Ford Kuga]] until the Kuga replaced it in 2013.

{{Clear}}

=== Mercury Mariner ===
[[File:2005-07 Mercury Mariner.jpg|thumb|Mercury Mariner]]
Introduced in 2004 for the 2005-model-year refresh of the Ford Escape in the US, Ford's [[Mercury (automobile)|Mercury]] division released a version called the Mercury Mariner. The Mariner is Mercury's first car-based SUV, and was slotted below the [[Mercury Mountaineer]] in its lineup. The Mariner was officially offered in the US, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and the UAE. The Mariner includes stylistic differences, such as a two-tone interior, turn signal repeaters borrowed from the European-market Ford Maverick (the Escape's name in Europe), monotone cladding, and the [[Mercury (automobile)|Mercury]] "waterfall" front grille. Unlike its counterparts, Mercury did not offer a manual transmission as part of the powertrain lineup. The Mariner was the first Mercury with a [[Straight-4|four-cylinder]] since the [[Mercury Cougar#Seventh generation (1989–1997)|Mercury Cougar]] was dropped in 2002. For 2006, the lineup was expanded with the introduction of the Mariner Hybrid. Sales ended after the 2007 model year, replaced by a second generation, again a rebadged Ford Escape.

On September 7, 2006, Ford delivered a special "Presidential Edition" Mercury Mariner Hybrid to former President [[Bill Clinton]]. Its custom features include: LED lighting, 120{{nbsp}}V outlet, rear bucket seats, center console & rear seat fold-out writing desks, personal DVD players for each seat, refrigerator, increased rear seat legroom. There have also been several undisclosed security modifications made to the vehicle.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.cnn.com/2006/AUTOS/09/07/clinton_hybrid/index.html |publisher=CNN |title=Clinton to get custom hybrid SUV |date=September 7, 2006 |access-date=November 9, 2009}}</ref>

The Mariner Hybrid [[powertrain]] was identical to its sibling, the Ford Escape Hybrid. It was launched to the U.S. market in 2006 and was discontinued in 2010 (in the second generation) when the Mercury car division itself was discontinued by Ford. The Mariner hybrid sold a total of 12,300 units.<ref name="Discontinued">{{cite web |url=http://www.greencarreports.com/news/1076382_green-car-death-list-2012-models-to-which-we-bid-adieu |title=Green-Car Death List: 2012 Models To Which We Bid Adieu |author=John Voelcker |publisher=Green Car Reports |date=May 22, 2012 |access-date=May 23, 2012}}</ref>

Like the Ford Escape Hybrid, the Mariner Hybrid is a "full" hybrid electric system, meaning the system can switch automatically between pure electric power, pure gasoline engine power, or a combination of both, for maximum performance and efficiency at all speeds and loads. When braking or decelerating, the Mariner's hybrid system uses regenerative braking, where the electric drive motor becomes a generator, converting the vehicle's momentum back to electricity for storage in the batteries. With {{Convert|155|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}}, the Mariner Hybrid has nearly the same acceleration performance as the conventional {{Convert|200|hp|kW|-1|abbr=on}} [[V6]] Mariner. Again, just like the Escape Hybrid, it gets a respectable average of {{convert|34|mpgUS|L/100 km mpgimp}} and is sometimes said to be the most fuel efficient [[sport utility vehicle]] on the road.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.automoblog.net/2008/11/11/2009-mercury-mariner-hybrid-review/ |title=2009 Mercury Mariner Hybrid Review |date=November 11, 2008 |publisher=Automoblog.net |access-date=January 5, 2009}}</ref>

=== Hybrid ===
[[File:05-07 Ford Escape Hybrid .jpg|thumb|2005–2007 Ford Escape Hybrid]]

The Ford Escape Hybrid and Mercury Mariner Hybrid are the [[gas-electric hybrid vehicle|gasoline–electric hybrid]] powered versions that launched in the U.S. in 2004 for the 2005 model year. Assembled in [[Kansas City, Missouri]], it was the first hybrid SUV produced for sale and the first hybrid from an American manufacturer (alongside the [[Chevrolet Silverado#Hybrid|Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra Hybrids]] during the same model year). According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the first-generation Ford Escape Hybrid is 70% more efficient than the regular Escape. While the Mercury Mariner was also offered as a hybrid, the option was not available on the Mazda Tribute.

Escape hybrid versions can be identified by the "Hybrid" badges located on the front doors as well as near the right tailgate. In addition, the driver's side window in the cargo area is smaller to accommodate a ventilation slot for the high-voltage battery. There was also a "Special Appearance Package" available as an option on the 2005–2007 Hybrid models. This package replaced the traditional lower cladding of the Escape with a silver finish. Standard equipment on the Escape Hybrid includes: an eight-way [[power seat|power adjustable driver's seat]], dual-zone automatic [[air conditioning]], [[cruise control]], a six-[[CD player|CD]] stereo, 16-inch [[alloy wheels]], power door locks with remote [[keyless entry]], [[power windows]], four-wheel disc brakes, and electric power steering.

Ford built 17,000 Escape Hybrids in the second half of 2004, four times as many as it had originally planned.<ref>[http://www.electricdrive.org/index.php?tg=articles&topics=7 Hybrid Sales Figures/Tax Credits for Hybrids] Electric Drive Transportation Association. Retrieved August 24, 2007.</ref> Starting in 2005, New York City and other cities in the world began using the Ford Escape Hybrid as [[hybrid taxi|taxicabs]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://media.ford.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=26061 |title=FORD ESCAPE HYBRID TAXIS &#124; Ford Motor Company Newsroom |publisher=Media.ford.com |access-date=June 9, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071208025841/http://media.ford.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=26061 |archive-date=December 8, 2007 }}</ref> The Ford Escape Hybrid won the ''[[North American Car of the Year|North American Truck of the Year]]'' award in 2005.<ref name="NACTOY">{{cite web|url=http://www.northamericancaroftheyear.org/nacoty-past.html |title=NACTOY – Past Finalists & Winners |publisher=The North American Car and Truck of the Year Awards |access-date=July 13, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100605034514/http://www.northamericancaroftheyear.org/nacoty-past.html |archive-date=June 5, 2010 }}</ref>

==== Drivetrain technology ====
The Escape Hybrid uses hybrid technology similar to that used in the [[Toyota Prius]]. Ford engineers realized their technology may conflict with patents held by Toyota, which led to a 2004 patent-sharing accord between the companies, licensing Ford's use of some of Toyota's hybrid technology<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB107880303676250060 |title=Wall Street Journal Online – ''Toyota to License Hybrid Patents For Use by Ford'' – MARCH 9, 2004 |work=The Wall Street Journal |date=March 9, 2004 |access-date=August 4, 2011}}</ref> in exchange for Toyota's use of some of Ford's diesel and direct-injection engine technology.<ref name="Detroit News - Aug 8, 2005">[http://www.cars.com/go/news/Story.jsp?section=news&subject=recent&story=080805storyaDN&referer= Cars.com – ''Ford Slams Toyota on Hybrids''] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120308210807/http://www.cars.com/go/news/Story.jsp?section=news&subject=recent&story=080805storyaDN&referer= |date=March 8, 2012 }} – Reported by Christine Tierney, Detroit News, August 8, 2005</ref> Ford maintains that Ford received no technical assistance from Toyota in developing the hybrid powertrain, but that some hybrid engine technologies developed by Ford independently were found to be similar to technologies previously patented by Toyota, so licenses were obtained.<ref name="Detroit News - Aug 8, 2005" /> [[Aisin Seiki Co.|Aisin Seiki Co. Ltd.]], a Japanese automotive components supplier belonging to the [[Toyota Group]], supplies the HD-10 hybrid [[continuously variable transmission]] for the Escape Hybrid. While Toyota produces its third-generation Prius transmission in-house, Aisin is the only supplier of hybrid transmissions to other manufacturers. Friction has arisen concerning Aisin's allocation of limited production capacity and engineering resources to Ford.<ref name="Detroit News - Aug 8, 2005" /> [[Sanyo]] Electric Co. built the {{convert|50|kg|lb|0|abbr=on}}, 330 volt<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.fordvehicles.com/suvs/escapehybrid/features/specs/ |title=Escape specs |publisher=Ford |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080628010034/http://www.fordvehicles.com/suvs/escapehybrid/features/specs/ |archive-date=June 28, 2008 }}</ref> 5.5 Ah (would make it 1.8kWh storage), 250-cell [[Nickel metal hydride battery|nickel metal hydride]] (NiMH) battery pack for the 2005 Escape Hybrid.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://avt.inl.gov/pdf/hev/escape2005hevamerica.pdf |title=2005 Ford Escape Hybrid Electric Vehicle |publisher=HEV America, U.S. Department of Energy Advanced Vehicle Testing Activity |year=2005 |access-date=August 7, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070925221359/http://avt.inl.gov/pdf/hev/escape2005hevamerica.pdf |archive-date=September 25, 2007 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

[[File:2006 Mercury Mariner Hybrid engine.jpg|thumb|Engine compartment]]

The Escape Hybrid is a [[full hybrid]], meaning the system can switch automatically between pure electric power, pure gasoline engine power, or a combination of electric battery and gasoline engine operating together, for maximum performance and efficiency at all speeds and loads. When braking or decelerating, the Escape's hybrid system uses [[regenerative braking]], where the electric drive motor becomes a generator, converting the vehicle's momentum back to electricity for storage in the batteries. The Escape Hybrid's 133 [[horsepower]] (99&nbsp;kW) Atkinson cycle gasoline [[Straight-4|I4]] engine and electric motor combine to give {{Convert|155|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}}, which gives the Hybrid Escape nearly the same acceleration performance as the conventional {{Convert|200|hp|kW|-1|abbr=on}} [[V6]] Escape due to the electric motor's torque being available from zero rpm.

The hybrid is said to give approximately 75% greater efficiency, the FWD version has EPA ratings of 30 mpg and 28 highway, with combined 29 mpg. The AWD version EPA ratings 28 city and 26 highway, combined 27 mpg <sub>-U.S.</sub> in city traffic, and has demonstrated it can travel 400–500 miles (644–805&nbsp;km) on a single {{convert|15.0|U.S.gal|L impgal|adj=on}} mpg<sub>-U.S.</sub> (7.6L-8.1 L/100&nbsp;km; 35–37&nbsp;mpg<sub>-imp</sub>) on the highway. To obtain these mileage figures, the owners manual states that pure gasoline, not ethanol blends, must be used. In 2006, Ford showed an Escape that could run on E85 fuel.

Unlike conventional vehicles, hybrids often achieve better figures in the city because they do not waste power idling and can recover some power when stopping (by using [[regenerative braking]]) that would be wasted in a conventional vehicle.

=== Recalls ===

==== Subframe failure ====
In April 2014, Ford issued a recall on 386,000 Ford Escapes and Mazda Tributes for model years 2001–2004 for Escapes manufactured October 22, 1999, through January 23, 2004, for Canada and the northern "[[Salt Belt|salt belt]]" states in the US. Subframe rust can result in the lower control arm mount breaking or detaching from the subframe, resulting in a loss of steering control and the risk of crash. Dealers have installed a crossbrace reinforcement to any vehicle affected by the recall. Model years 2005–2007 were not affected.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/cars/2014/04/07/ford-recall-fusion-escape/7427299/|title=Ford recalls another 386K for chassis corrosion|website=[[USA Today]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://jalopnik.com/almost-400-000-old-ford-escape-suvs-recalled-1560352974|title = Almost 400,000 Ford Escape SUVs Recalled over Rust| date=April 7, 2014 }}</ref>