I had a 2007 Escape hybrid that routonly got 29 mpg for my wife driving to work and back. She totaled that vehicle and we then bought a 2005 Escape hybrid. We have noticed that the 2005 doesn't seem to go into and/or stay in HEV mode as long as the 2007. Due to this her mpg's are around 25.

We drive it the exact same way. Is there a way program it to increase the amount of time that the vehicle is in HEV mode? Did the Escapes change that much from 2005 to 2007? I'm a little disappointed in this, I could have bought a non hybrid (for a lot less money) that gets around 25 mpg.

 

Is the 2005 operating at the same hybrid battery temperature as the 07? Do you have a scanguage II unit to report on some vehicle operating values that might provide insight to your question. There is no fundamental difference between the 05-07 vehicles.

 

How many miles on your '05 (more than 100k)?

 

I do not have a scan gauge.

The 2007 had 108,000 miles on it and the 2005 has 80,000 miles on it.

 

Hard to say without being there. I say give it more time.

My 2005 gets better MPG than most 2007's.

Driver style, tire pressure, season, and where you buy gas has EVERYTHING to do with it.
Model year has very little to do with it.

 

Are they have same tires?

 

I asked about the mileage, thinking you might be due for a new oxygen sensor, which we usually replace around 100k miles and might be indicated because it appears yours is 5 years old. I suspect there are other things that should be replaced after 5 years as well.

Another possibility could be dragging brakes d/t rusty brake components.

Any other problems with the '05 you're not telling us, like the occasional check engine light?

 

No check engine light has ever come on.
I had a CV axle replace the day after I bought it.
New brakes and rotors also, so I would hope there is no drag.
I'm sure the tires are different (from the 2007), but I'll give it some time and see if the mileage gets any better.

 

I assume both vehicles are both 2 WD?

 

Both are AWD (4 WD)