I have the, mazda 2.3 litre engine in escape.
Getting respectable fuel economy.
But then, it relates to my driving style.
The tires are balanced and wheel aligned.
It is kept serviced regularly.
Currently using "Iridium" plugs. Not sure, if the plugs make a difference.
I coast gently to a stop.
My acceleration is steady.
In country ranges, the best economy is achieved at 100Kmh.
This is on the highways.
Everyone has a different driving style.
You mentioned 09 Ford Escape.
Maybe because the car is new.
My escape is an 06 , with mazda 2.3 litre engine.
When it was new, my economy was less.
I noticed the benefits, while running motor in.
Now that my engine is older, the fuel economy has improved significantly.
Could it be my engine, is an odd one out of the batch?.
Have asked the service tech about that.
The mechanic commented it is possible.
He explained that engines, will not be exactly the same.
It can happen that a motor, will have something unique to it.
There can be variations in power, also including economy.
I have owned ford sedans previously.
This is my first experience, with "MAZDA" technology.
I am impressed with ,mazdas four cylinder expertise.