CHICAGO --- The 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid and Mercury Mariner Hybrid were named Best Crossover/SUV Value Under $28,000 at the Chicago Auto Show by IntelliChoice.com, a leading source for automotive ownership cost and value analysis.

The Best Overall Value of the Year (BOVY) Awards recognize vehicles whose cost of ownership is significantly lower than expected compared to competitive models in the same class. According to James Bell, editor of IntelliChoice.com, the awards provide consumers with a quick reference to finding vehicles that promise the best return on investment.

"The BOVY Awards are an essential guide at a time when most consumers are carefully watching their wallets," said Bell. "A vehicle's cost of ownership has gone from 'nice to know' to 'need to know' when comparing possible purchases. The BOVY's guide buyers on which car, truck or Crossover/SUV will deliver the most value for their money, especially when that vehicle ages and starts to lose that seductive new car smell."

IntelliChoice.com selects BOVY winners based on the most important factors that determine the long-term costs of a vehicle, said Bell. They include depreciation/retained value, maintenance and repair costs, fuel costs, insurance and state fees.