Ford Cuts Prices on 2008 Escape and Escape Hybrid

DEARBORN, Mich. — The Ford Motor Company has announced that its base 2008 Escape XLS will start at $19,245, including a $665 destination charge, which is a $740 reduction over the 2007 Escape. The '08 Escape Hybrid also gets a price cut of $580 versus the '07 model. The vehicles will be in showrooms by March.

The 2008 Escape Hybrid will start at $25,740, including shipping. Ford said its 2008 Escape XLT V6, the model that is expected to account for half of all Escape sales, will start at $22,545.

The '08 Escape gets an exterior and interior restyling, with what Ford describes as a "bold" face, and such new options as a navigation system for gas models.

The base engine is a carryover 2.3-liter inline-4 that makes 153 horsepower and 152 pound-feet of torque. Other engine choices include a 3.0-liter V6 and the inline-4 Atkinson Cycle hybrid engine.

Ford said gas models of the Escape will get standard side curtain airbags and AdvanceTrac with roll stability control. New features include an MP3 audio input jack, 16-inch wheels and second-row 60/40-split fold-flat seats. A new Limited Luxury package bundles dual electric automatic temperature control, driver and front passenger heated seats, heated sideview mirrors, reverse sensing and steering-wheel audio controls.

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