Funny to see this discussion thread, because two days ago I saw what was apparently a redesigned Ford Escape Hybrid in traffic in Washington, D.C. It was larger and more stylized than the current model; in fact, had I not first spotted the hybrid badge on the right-rear, it wouldn't have occurred to me that it was an Escape. It sat higher up and seemed a bit longer.

 

Actually, I think that this is the first time anyone has been able to confirm that there will actually be a hybrid version still around. IMHO, Ford seems to have lost interest, or shifted its priorities elsewhere.