[HybridArchitect]

Autoblog has released a new podcast (#94) which includes a ten-minute discussion of their positive experiences test-driving the new 2009 Escapes (and comparing them to the 2008 model). Download it via iTunes or at:
http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/21/autoblog-podcast-94/

The Escape chat starts just after the 10-minute mark and initially focuses on the Hybrid model, and then moves on to discuss the new transmission and engines in the non-hybrid configuration (and talks about some of the other Ford models that are affected by these new components). The conclusion - they really like the 2009 hybrid and when considering the non-hybrid model, would go for the 2.5L I4 over the new V6.

Definitely worth a listen and a very complimentary chat about Ford's developments (which is quite rare in the Autoblog podcasts).

 

[Dasha]

Thanks, HA!! :beer:

 

[HybridArchitect]

Autoblog's Podcast #96 (from 3rd June) has a discussion of the 2009 Mercury Mariner Hybrid (with a comparison to the Saturn Vue Hybrid):
http://podcasts.autoblog.com/

The discussion starts just after the 13-minute mark and is about 5 minutes in length. Overall, the comments are positive, with the seamless transition from gasoline engine start-stop and higher EV-only speed of 40 MPH the main improvements highlighted over the 2008 Escape/Mariner Hybrids.

:yahoo: