Ford's compact SUV Escape has been a huge success for the automaker. More than 1 million copies have been sold since it was first introduced for the 2001 model year.
Over the past couple of years, the competition in this segment has stiffened. So, it should come as no surprise that Ford has prepared a freshened version Escape for the 2008 model year.
The
2008 Ford Escape is totally new, inside and out. At first glance, I noticed that the Ford Escape looks tougher and more muscular. The once top-heavy look has been replaced with a lower, hunkered-down design.
A bold grille, higher beltline and the removal of body-cladding from the bottom of the doors give the 2008 Ford Escape strong, appealing exterior styling.
Step inside the new Escape and you'll be greeted by an equally pleasing redesigned interior. By the way, the 2008 Escape is believed to be the first U.S. automotive application of 100 percent recycled fabric seating surfaces. This significantly cuts down on landfill and Ford worked closely with the supplier so its customers would still enjoy that new car smell.
In addition to the industry's first recycled seating surfaces, the 2008 Escape features a host of interior innovations that will eventually cascade to other Ford vehicles.
The Escape features Ford's first use of a "top of dash" display positioned at eye level on the dashboard, which shows ambient temperature, radio functions and climate-control readouts. This puts much of the vehicle's information in one place at the top of the dashboard, making it easier to reference when driving.
Escape also features the first use of Ford's new, signature Ice Blue interior lighting. The cool blue lighting replaces the traditional green on the instrument cluster, the center console, the redundant controls on the steering wheel, and the door lock and window switches. Ice Blue presents a cool, crisp, easy-on-the-eyes light for night driving and it enhances the overall feel of the interior.
The cabin is noticeably quieter than the previous generation. There was just enough room for four adults inside my Escape tester.
When it comes to powering the Ford Escape, there are two engine choices: a 2.3-liter 4-cylinder that produces 153 horsepower; or a 3.0-liter V6 that makes 200 horsepower.
Those choosing the fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine can pick either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic. The V6 is only available with the 4-speed automatic transmission.
I am disappointed to see that Ford has chosen to stay with a 4-speed automatic transmission while its competitors in this segment are offering five- or six-speed automatics.
Escape sends its power to either the front, or all four wheels through an intelligent all-wheel-drive system. Every non-hybrid 2008 Escape comes standard with Advance Trac with RSC (Roll Stability Control).
The 2008 Ford Escape is one of the first Ford Motor Company vehicles to use speed-sensitive Electric Power Steering (EPS), a sophisticated system that helps correct for road irregularities and improves overall steering feel.
Conventional power steering systems use an engine-driven hydraulic gear that saps power and efficiency from the engine. The 2008 Escape's new EPS system uses an electric motor rather than the engine's accessory drive. This new system helps improve fuel economy and eliminates the hydraulic noises typical of conventional hydraulic power-assisted steering systems.
While I like the feel of Escape's new power steering system, and the overall pleasing car-like ride, I was taken aback to find that Ford had replaced the rear disc brakes with drum-type brakes.
When properly equipped, the Ford Escape can tow up to 3,500 pounds. The 2008 Ford Escape comes in three trim levels: XLS, XLT and Limited.
The XLS is well-equipped and includes keyless entry, full power accessories, and a CD player with an auxiliary input jack.
The XLT adds 16-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass, automatic headlights, foglamps, a power driver seat, upgraded cloth upholstery and cruise control.
The top-of-the-line Escape Limited includes color-keyed grille and side mirrors, leather seating and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Options include a moonroof, an upgraded 320-watt audio system with a subwoofer and a DVD-based navigation system. For the Limited only, you can get a chrome accent package as well as a luxury package, which includes heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control and rear park assist.
Pricing for the 2008 Ford Escape starts at under $19k, and climbs to over $30k when fully optioned. With the all-new 2008 Ford Escape, Ford has proven it can raise the bar in this segment.
2008 Ford Escape Limited 4WD
Engine 3.0-liter (200 hp) V6
Transmission 4-speed automatic
Drive Type 4WD
Fuel Economy 19 city/23 highway
Base Price $25,330
As Tested $30,910 (including $665 for destination)
Website http://www.ford.com