2003 Ford Escape: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Base XLS and midlevel XLT trim levels are joined by a luxury-model Escape Limited for '03. Ford's smallest SUV is a 4-dr wagon that has a rear liftgate with separate-opening glass. Two powertrains are offered: a 4-cyl engine with manual transmission, and a V6 with 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 and Limited, optional on XLS. Front side airbags are standard on Limited, optional on the others. XLS models have 15-inch wheels, most XLTs and all Limiteds get 16s. Also added for '03 are a satin-silver instrument-panel finish and new interior materials. XLT Premium and Limited come with leather upholstery. The Limited comes with rear-obstacle detection, and heated front seats and door mirrors. Exclusive to the XLT Sport is Ford's No Boundaries roof rack that slides rearward to ease loading. In late calendar-year 2003, Ford plans to introduce a hybrid Escape with a 4-cyl gasoline engine with electric-motor assist that achieves an estimated 40 mpg in city driving. Mazda's Tribute is a slightly retrimmed Escape.

COMPETITION

Though our Best Buys, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Mazda Tribute don't offer true off-road ability, they do mix ride comfort, cargo capacity, and versatility with all-weather traction. The V6 Tribute/Escape offers more power, comfort, and space than any in its class. CR-V has a bit more on-road refinement and cargo space.

Another car-based mini-SUV, Subaru Forester is a Recommended choice. Like the CR-V it doesn't have a low range for serious off-road use, but it blends excellent on-road manners with SUV styling. The Jeep Liberty may lack some of the advantages of more-carlike SUVs, but it leads the pack in off-road ability. It's Recommended as an affordable, capable competitor.