When they hit the road in 2004, Ford hybrid SUVs were slow-sellers out of the gate. But times have changed, and they're now in high demand. Front-wheel-drive versions get better fuel economy than any other SUV, and a mild redesign for the 2008 model year made them look more up-to-date.
Low monthly sales figures tell the story here. If Ford could make more - the company has blamed tight battery supplies - it would sell more. There just aren't enough Escape Hybrids to meet demand right now.
Posters on Carspace.com and HybridCars.com report waiting lists and premium pricing. Some even report giving up and buying a Prius instead.
Ford says it will be increasing the supply of Ford hybrid vehicles in early 2009 with the introduction of the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan hybrid sedans.
NEXT: Toyota Highlander Hybrid