Ford's Escape and its Mazda Tribute counterpart are today's most capable all-around compact SUVs, and the most refined. With V6 power, they're also among the quickest compacts, capable of reaching 60 mph in under 9 seconds. Available V6 power and locked-in 50/50 4WD give them a power and traction advantage over the similarly sized but four-cylinder Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. Those qualities, plus ample ground clearance and roominess, put them ahead of the Subaru Forester. Most Escapes and Tributes have the V6, and are likely to have 4WD. The 4WD V6 models summon more power throughout the speed range than any of their four-cylinder rivals. Around-town acceleration, highway merging and two-lane passing are stress-free. An extended-test V6 model with AWD averaged 19.5 mpg with considerable highway driving, while others have managed 17.5 to 19.2 mpg. Automatic transmissions shift smoothly and promptly, but feel somewhat indecisive on lengthy uphill grades. The 4WD system provides sufficient traction to climb steep, gravelly hillsides; but absence of low-range gearing, or even all-terrain tires, rules out serious off-roading. Steering/handling beats most rivals, but these SUV's certainly don't approach sport sedans. Fast, tight turns can trigger front-end plowing. Still, their steering is exceptionally direct (with Tribute the firmer of the pair), and stability at highway speeds is terrific. Balance and grip are quite good in rapid cornering, with less body lean than other SUVs of similar build. Suspensions on Escape and Tribute, while different in tuning, feel markedly taut. Models tested did not wallow or float over dips and swells, though some sharp bumps register abruptly. Braking is controlled and satisfactorily strong, though some drivers might find pronounced nosedive in panic stops. Noise levels are not objectionable, but wind roar is prominent at speed and the tires whine on coarse pavement. An airy, comfortable cabin belies Escape/Tribute's compact exterior dimensions. Taller riders will wish for more head room in sunroof-equipped models, but clearance is otherwise generous. The rear seat deserves special praise, with leg room exceeding that of most midsize SUVs, enhanced by outstanding foot room beneath the front seats. Doorways are wide, but step-in is higher than on most compact SUVs. Visibility is unimpeded to the sides and rear. Gauges and controls are legible and well-placed, but the long automatic-transmission shift lever on early models can be awkward to operate and it interferes with the driver's reach to the radio. The climate system doesn't allow independent control of air recirculation or air conditioning. The driver gets an elevated view of the road ahead, and unimpeded vision to the sides and rear. Interior furnishings are slightly less upscale than those of the Tribute, but both cabins feel solidly assembled with durable materials. No other compact SUV has more usable cargo room. Rear seatbacks easily fold flat once the headrests are removed, and seat bottoms tilt forward. The standard separate-opening rear glass is an added convenience.

Value for the Money
Substantial feeling, roomy, comfortable, and even fun to drive, Escape and Tribute earn a slot on the compact SUV all-star team. They're also eminently sensible alternatives to any number of midsize SUVs, especially truck-based wagons, that are less efficient in their use of space and fuel. No wonder the Escape soon became America's top-selling compact SUV. Stay away from troublesome 4-cylinder models.