The lone American ranger in this group is the Ford Escape hybrid, the roughest and tumblin-est vehicle here, if mostly by posture. Refreshed for 2009, the Escape addresses many of the issues that made it an almost unacceptable compromise, including the anemic performance, punishing ride, and poor brake feel. The stronger four-cylinder now boasts 177 horsepower in addition to its hybrid-electric drive, the revised suspension system includes a rear anti-roll bar, and the brakes feel something like normal. The Escape is a hybrid SUV with solid moves at an affordable price tag, for which no excuses need be made. Though an official fuel-economy rating has yet to be obtained for the new model, not much change is expected from 2008.
