2006 Ford Escape: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Ford's smallest SUV model lineup consists of gasoline and gas/electric hybrid models. Escape is a five-passenger, 4-dr wagon with a liftgate with opening glass. XLS and XLT 4-cyl models have 153 hp. XLT V6, XLT Sport, and Limited versions have a 200-hp V6. The 4-cyl engine is available with manual or automatic transmission, the V6 with automatic only. Hybrid models team a 4-cyl gas engine with a battery-powered electric motor for 155 hp net. The hybrid system automatically runs on one or both power sources to balance acceleration and fuel economy. It requires no plug-in charging. Hybrids have a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that provides near-infinite drive ratios. All Escapes are available with front-wheel drive or with all-wheel drive that lacks low-range gearing. ABS is standard. Optional are curtain side airbags with rollover deployment. The Mazda Tribute and Mercury Mariner share Escape's basic design. They differ in trim, features, and pricing. Only Escape and Mariner offer hybrid models.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Among utility vehicles, Compact SUVs are the least costly and offer the best fuel economy. Most utilize a car-type chassis and are not designed for heavy-duty, off-road use. Nearly all are five-passenger vehicles.

Our Best Buys include Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Mazda Tribute, and Mercury Mariner. Our Recommended picks are Honda Element, Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Liberty, Kia Sportage, and Subaru Forester.

Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Rav4 are new or significantly redesigned.