2001 Ford Escape: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

This new compact SUV was developed jointly with Ford partner Mazda, which gets its own version called Tribute. Mazda designed their carlike platform, Ford the engines. Escape is 4.6 inches shorter than a Honda CR-V but roughly equal in other dimensions. It offers XLS and uplevel XLT models with a 4-cyl engine or optional V6. (Honda and Toyota rivals are 4-cyl only.) Escape's 4-cyl uses manual transmission, the V6 uses automatic. Escape is available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive without low-range gearing; a dashboard switch on AWD models locks in a 50/50 front/rear torque split. ABS is standard on XLT, optional on XLS. Front side airbags are optional on both. Standard equipment includes a rear liftgate with wiper and glass hatch, air conditioning, front bucket seats with console, and a CD player. A 60/40 split-fold rear seatback is standard on XLT. Fifteen-inch wheels are standard on both models; 16s are optional on V6 XLTs.

COMPETITION

Ignored in the past, compact SUVs are now some of the hottest-selling vehicles around. Though our Best Buy Honda CR-V doesn't offer true off-road ability and has milquetoast acceleration, it does mix ride comfort, cargo capacity, and versatility with all-weather traction.

Another car-based mini-SUV, the Subaru Forester, is our Recommended choice. Like the CR-V it doesn't have a low range for serious off-road use, it blends excellent on-road manners with SUV styling.

New this year are the Ford Escape and clone Mazda Tribute. We have been very impressed with early production models and may elevate these two to Best Buys after we get more seat time.