How are the Hybrids? - Ford Forums

ekulwyo · 03-16-2008, 21:36

I am seriously considering a 2008 Mercury Mariner hybrid. The obvious question is: are they reliable? Has anyone had major problebms? Thanks!

jhorback · 03-17-2008, 10:42

The 2008's are nearly impossible to find. I am waiting for the 2009's. You can order one as soon as late April and production starts in late June.

The additions to the 2009 are worth the wait. They will have a better engine (almost 20 more hp) and traction control. And if you're into the options, they will also have Microsoft Sync, Sirius Travel link and a few others. A quick google search for 2009 ford escape hybrid or 2009 mercury mariner hybrid will pull up many articles with the full details.

Billyk · 04-28-2008, 18:22

I have a 2005 Escape Hybrid that I am very happy with. There is a rumor that the 2009 Escape Hybrid will have rear drum brakes instead of 4 wheel disc brakes. There was an article in the Chicago Tribune that quoted a Wes Sherwood of Ford "rear drum brakes are required because of the need to get it to work with the electronic stability can roll over control".

It seems odd that "older design" rear drum brakes are needed for modern dynamic electronic stability control.

**360ci** · 05-04-2008, 16:21

Ford's probably switching back to drums because of costs, they just need a viable excuse to give the public to make the change! If Subaru, GM, etc., can make vehicles with rear disc brakes work with their stability control systems, it's cost cutting for sure. I bet they'll save a hundred or so per vehicle, which will add up into tens of thousands of dollars in production costs.

The Hybrids are nice but I can't justify the cost quite yet. Here they're $3-4K more than a comparably equipped V6 version. That'll take 7-8 years of driving before I break even on the hybrid technology investment.

Billyk · 05-10-2008, 20:21

Quote:

Originally Posted by 360ci

If Subaru, GM, etc., can make vehicles with rear disc brakes work with their stability control systems, it's cost cutting for sure. .

Not quite a true statement. The Escape Hybrid has regenerative braking system. Subaru does not have this feature on any vehicle sold in the USA. GM only has this on their new hybrid SUV/Trucks. Toyota/Lexus's AWD hybrid vehicles have a different type of system in which they rely upon a second electric motor to power the rear wheels. Ford splits the torque between the front and rear wheels as needed.