The 2009 Ford Escape, equipped with a new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, delivers best-in-class fuel economy in the small SUV segment with 28 highway/20 city mpg.

The 2009 Escape Hybrid remains the most fuel-efficient SUV, delivering 34 city mpg and an improved highway rating of 31 mpg - a 1 mpg increase versus the 2008 model.

According to Ford, the Escape's new 2.5-liter I-4 engine uses intake variable cam timing (iVCT) technology for increased power and improved efficiency. The powertrain also incorporates electronic throttle control (ETC), dual-mode crankshaft damping and new intake and exhaust manifolds, which contribute to greater fuel efficiency. And a new optional six-speed automatic transmission contributes up to a 6 percent increase in fuel efficiency.

A new front chin spoiler and rear tire spoilers help reduce wind drag, providing a gain of 0.75 mpg at 70 mph. Escape also features new low-rolling-resistance tires developed in cooperation with Michelin.

Escape Hybrid remains the most fuel-efficient SUV on the planet. For 2009, the Hybrid achieved a 1 mpg improvement on the highway, for 34 city/31 highway mpg. The upgraded Hybrid model will use the new 2.5-liter I-4 designed to run on the Atkinson combustion cycle. A new engine processor enables smoother transitions between gas and electric vehicle mode, and control system enhancements provide more electric mode driving, switching over from gas at 35 mph rather than 25 mph with the previous model.