

A deeperįront spoiler and small spoilers in front of the rear wheels improve Changes for 2009 are aerodynamic, for increased fuel efficiency.Įvery fraction of a mile per gallon is important in the CAFE game. Is very much the small sibling to the Explorer and Expedition, with noĪpologies. With more angular styling and a bold chrome grille, demonstrates this. Look, Ford has embraced that heritage in the Escape. Add the recent drivetrain, suspension, and safety upgrades,Īnd an improved interior, and it has stayed competitive in a toughĪPPEARANCE: As crossovers in general have abandoned the truck-like Improvement over the 18 to 20 of earlier V6 Escapes I've tested, and theĮffect of the extra 40 horsepower was welcome in freeway passing andĪs ever, the Escape strikes a good balance between a smallĮxterior size, easily manageable in parking lots and narrow streets, and The 21.5 mpg overall I got, with better possible (see below), was an The six-speed transmission and more powerfulĮngine worked together for quick acceleration and reasonable fuel economy. I've just finished a week with a 4WD V6 Escape XLT, and if theĮxterior aero changes were subtle, the functional changes were readilyĪpparent and appreciated.

For the first time, the Hybrid is offered in two levels, standardĪnd Limited, which is equipped similarly to the gasoline Limited. Regular trim levels are XLS, XLT and Limited, with standardĮquipment levels varying from comfortably middle class to near-luxury, andĮnough options available to tailor an Escape to nearly every need orĭesire. Easy Fuel(tm) capless refueling means no more lost gas caps. Seat fabrics made from recycled materials are joined by soy-based foam Anti-lock brakes and theĪdvanceTrac¨ with RSC¨ (Roll Stability Control) stability control systemĪre standard equipment in all models. Small aerodynamic modifications also contribute to fuelĮfficiency and reduce interior noise levels. The Escape Hybrid - and enhancements to the 3.0-liter V6 for more power Of useful interior space with a small footprint and reasonable fuelĮconomy, and to encourage that Ford has further developed the Escape forĢ009 with a new four-cylinder engine - also now used, in modified form, in There are newer nameplates from the Blue Oval to steal the limelight,Īnd business in general has been interesting, and not in the best ofīut there is still a demand for a vehicle that combines plenty Last year, Ford could be forgiven for doing little or nothing to it forĢ009. SEE ALSO: Compare 2009 Ford Escape Prices, Pictures and SpecsDRIVING DOWN THE ROADĪfter major revitalization to its Escape small crossover SUV.
