28 highway/20 city mpg gives the 2009 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner the top fuel economy spot among all four-cylinder compact SUVs.
The posted mpg figures are for the Escape equipped with the new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission.
The big win and fuel economy gains also come with increased horsepower. The new 2.5-liter produces 171 hp, an 11 percent increase in power output versus the 2.3-liter engine it replaces. The engine uses intake variable cam timing (iVCT) technology to optimize valve timing, creating a broad torque curve that helps deliver the increased power along with the improved efficiency.
Other contributors to the fuel economy gains and improved performance:
The new optional six-speed automatic transmission, paired with the 2.5-liter, is calibrated for fuel efficiency while cruising in sixth gear – without sacrificing launch feel and performance in lower gear. The pairing contributes up to a six percent increase in fuel efficiency.
Aero improvements, including a new front chin spoiler and rear tire spoilers, help reduce wind drag, gaining 0.75 mpg when travelling at 70 mph.
Low-rolling-resistance tires reduce weight and a new tread pattern produces less friction with the road reducing fuel consumption, improving braking and delivering more precise handling.
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