2008 Ford Escape: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Ford Escape is updated with freshened exterior and interior styling, new features, and lower prices. This compact SUV is nearly identical in size and has the same powertrains as the 2001-2007 version. It remains a five-passenger, 4-door wagon with a liftgate with opening glass. XLS and XLT 4-cylinder models have a 153-hp 2.3-liter engine. XLT V6 and Limited versions have a 200-hp 3.0-liter engine. The 4-cylinder engine is available with manual or automatic transmission, the V6 with automatic only. A gas/electric Hybrid model is available. It teams a 4-cylinder gas engine with an electric motor. It requires no plug-in charging. Hybrids have a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Maximum towing capacity is 3500 lb for non-hybrids; hybrids are rated to tow up to 1000 lb. The 2008 Ford Escape is available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Available safety features include curtain side airbags, front side airbags, and ABS. Traction control and an antiskid system are standard on all Escapes except the Hybrid, where they are unavailable. Also available are leather upholstery, heated front seats, rear obstacle detection, and a navigation system. Escape shares its basic design with the Mazda Tribute and Mercury Mariner.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Among utility vehicles, Compact SUVs are typically 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; some offer seating for seven.

Our Best Buys are the Honda CR-V and Suzuki Grand Vitara. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Saturn Vue, and Toyota RAV4.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Jeep Liberty, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Rogue, and Saturn Vue.