The 2009 Ford Escape should receive more power following its freshening for the 2008 model year. This compact SUV is a five-passenger, 4-door wagon that includes a liftgate with opening glass. 4-cylinder models have a 171-hp 2.5-liter engine. V6 versions have a 240-hp 3.0-liter engine. Compared to the 2008 Escape, that's an increase of 18 hp in the 4-cylinder and 40 hp in the V6. The 4-cylinder engine is available with a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission, the V6 with a 6-speed automatic only. A gas/electric Hybrid model is available. It teams a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gas engine with an electric motor. It requires no plug-in charging. Hybrids have a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Power numbers for the 2009 Escape Hybrid are not yet available, but it should see an increase compared to 2008 models. Towing capacity for 4-cylinder models is 1500 lb. V6 models can tow up to 3500 lb. The Escape is available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Available safety features include ABS, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. 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 Mercury Mariner and Mazda Tribute. This report is based on evaluations of the 2008 Ford Escape.