2009 Ford Escape: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2009 Ford Escape is a broad powertrain upgrade: a new 2.5-liter four-cylinder replaces the 2.3-liter engine, and the V6 rises to 240 hp. Gas models also gain a six-speed automatic, while the Hybrid receives updated hardware and smoother operation.
About the 2009 Ford Escape
2nd generation (2008-2012), second model year after the 2008 redesign.
Ford positions the 2009 Escape as a right-size small SUV for people who want easy daily driving, flexible cargo space, and available 4WD without moving up to a larger truck-based SUV. The brochure leans hard on smart packaging, standard safety tech, and better fuel economy, while the Hybrid broadens the model’s appeal for buyers who want SUV usefulness with much stronger city mileage. In plain terms, this is a practical five-seat family runabout with an upright driving position and a simple, useful cabin.
The 2009 Escape lineup ranges from the straightforward XLS to the comfort-focused Limited, with the XLT serving as the well-rounded middle trim. Hybrid models pair a 2.5-liter gas engine with electric drive, while the Limited Hybrid adds heated leather seats, a moonroof, and rear parking sensors. Ford Sync is a notable phone and media feature on Hybrid and Limited models.
What changed, by category
2009 Ford Escape specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / V6, 3.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 2.5 Liter | V6, 3.0 Liter / 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 2.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, CVT | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, CVT |
| Drivetrain | 2WD | 2WD | 2WD | 4WD / 2WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Hybrid | Gas / Hybrid |
| MPG City | 22 mpg | 18–20 mpg | 34 mpg | 17–34 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 28 mpg | 26–28 mpg | 31 mpg | 24–31 mpg |
| Horsepower | 171 hp | 171–240 hp | 171–240 hp | |
| Torque | 171 lb-ft | 171–233 lb-ft | 136 lb-ft | 136–233 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1500 lb | 1500 lb | 3500 lb | |
| Trunk/Cargo | 66.3 cu-ft | 66.3 cu-ft | 66 cu-ft | 66–66.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.6 in | 35.6 in | 35.6 in | 35.6 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| 4-Wheel Disc Brakes | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Headlights | ||||
| Rear Parking Sensors | ||||
| Stability Control | ||||
| Traction Control | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Privacy Glass | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | ||||
| Built-In Hard Drive | ||||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2009 Ford Escape a full redesign?
No. The 2009 Escape is the second model year of the generation introduced for 2008, but it receives substantial engine, transmission, suspension, and hybrid-system updates.
What engine changed in the 2009 Ford Escape?
The main engine change is a new 2.5-liter four-cylinder replacing the previous 2.3-liter engine in both gas and hybrid models. The V6 is also upgraded to 240 hp.
Does the 2009 Ford Escape have a six-speed automatic?
Yes. Gas-powered 2009 Escape models use a six-speed automatic instead of the previous four-speed automatic, although the XLS keeps a five-speed manual as its base setup. Hybrid models use an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission.
What changed on the 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid?
The 2009 Escape Hybrid gets a new 2.5-liter gas engine, smoother transitions between gas and electric power, and revised regenerative-braking feel. A new Limited Hybrid trim adds heated leather seats, a moonroof, and rear parking sensors.
Is the 2009 Ford Escape meaningfully different from the 2008 model?
Yes. Although the body design largely carries over, the 2009 model has stronger engines, a six-speed automatic on gas models, revised ride tuning, capless refueling, and updates to the hybrid system.