Ford has reworked its Escape and Mercury Mariner Hybrid SUVs to improve fuel economy by up to 3 miles per gallon. That's no small accomplishment considering the same engine as the previous model, and proves that saving fuel is possible (despite the auto industry's protestations).
The 2008 versions of the vehicles share the same engine and are will be rated at 34 miles per gallon in the city and 30 on the highway using the more conservative 2008 EPA rating system, up from 31/29 for the 2007 models. Ford says the fuel economy gains were possible because of "improved aerodynamics, a new electronic power steering system, and a more efficient hybrid battery temperature management system."
The tax credits for both vehicles will be $3,000, so if consumers bargain they might be able to get the vehicles for not much more than $20,000. Ford may have to start revving up production as these vehicles might become very popular as gas heads north of $3 this summer.
