Ford today announced new engines and an improved transmission for the 2009 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner. A new 170 horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides an additional 17 hp over the 2.3-liter model it replaces, while reducing fuel consumption by 1 mpg.
The new engine also is the new basis for Ford ’s hybrid models, but final specifications have not been disclosed. The hybrid models will be lightly more powerful, while delivering the same fuel economy as before.
An optional, 230 horsepower, 3.0-liter V6 engine — a 30 hp increase over last year — also is offered. It, too, will offer an estimated 1 mpg fuel economy improvement and better acceleration. Engine enhancements include new pistons, cylinder heads, and fuel injection system.
Both gasoline models make use of a new six-speed automatic transmission that promises to increase efficiency and performance, not to mention gear change smoothness. The transmission is considerably more advanced than the four-speed automatic previously offered.
Fuel savings also come from additional design and engineering features, including aerodynamic improvements and new 16-inch tires with less rolling resistance.
Escape and Mariner also incorporate new features to improve handling and ride characteristics, including a new 18.5 mm rear stabilizer bar and revised suspension tuning.
A new brake system provides a more seamless transition from regenerative braking to traditional braking. It incorporates a new pedal sensor that gives the driver better feedback and pedal feel similar to that of a traditional vacuum-assisted hydraulic system.
Already standard on the gas models, the Escape Hybrid and Mariner Hybrid now come with AdvanceTrac with RSC, which provides stability and roll control.
