When Ford unleashed the Escape Hybrid, it instantly became a good choice for consumers looking for a vehicle which is roomy and large but has a good fuel economy.  For the 2009 model year, the Dearborn-based automaker has given the Escape Hybrid and it sister, the Mariner Hybrid more features.

To improve the performance of the hybrid SUVs, here are a couple of changes made to them: 

• Aerodynamic improvements, including a new front fascia chin spoiler and rear tire spoilers also play a role in the fuel economy story.
• A new 16-inch Michelin tire design offers improved rolling resistance that contributes to fuel efficiency, while also bringing improvements in quiet operation, steering and handling, and stopping distance.
  

They have been given the power to get connected with these features:

• SYNC, the award-winning Ford in-car connectivity system developed with Microsoft, will be offered in Escape and Mariner. New for the 2009 model-year, SYNC features “911 Assist” which will help drivers connect with emergency assistance in the event of air bag deployment. Also available for 2009, SYNC will offer Vehicle Health Reports, which are designed to keep owners up to speed with vehicle maintenance needs through the syncmyride.com web site.
• SIRIUS® Travel Link™, which offers real-time traffic, weather, fuel price, sports schedules and movie information when combined with Ford's next-generation navigation system with voice recognition.
  

Sue Cischke, Ford senior vice president, Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering had this to say about the two hybrid SUVs: "More than ever, the Escape Hybrid and Mariner Hybrid are the ultimate vehicles for commuters in the daily battle with urban traffic congestion. For every eight Escape and Mariner vehicles we sell, one of them is a hybrid, and the appeal is growing."