Ford Escape - 2008

Body Styles: 4-Dr Sport Utility

Transmissions 4 Speed Automatic; 5 Speed Manual
Engines: 2.3L L4; 3.0L V6

Drivetrains: Four Wheel Drive; Front Wheel Drive

In spite of banal styling and mediocre quality, the Ford Escape has remained one of the best-selling compact SUVs on the market. Next spring, Ford hopes to maintain its strong position with the redesigned 2008 Escape. But don’t be fooled by its macho exterior; mechanically speaking, most of the old Escape is still trapped inside.

The Escape’s new styling does toughen its image quite a bit, with a higher beltline, a bolder new front fascia and lighting units. New wheels and more prominently flared fenders give it a more visually planted stance. The cladding of the former model has been removed, thankfully, for a cleaner look. “The goal from the beginning was to make Escape look even stronger and tougher than the original,” says Doyle Letson, chief designer for the 2008 Escape.

Check Out the roomy interior !!

Inside, changes are more significant, including upgraded materials, more sound insulation, new seat fabrics made from 100-percent-recycled materials, a completely redesigned dashboard, and a center stack featuring a Mazda-like info display atop the dash. Passenger space remains relatively unchanged, allowing certain competitors—some of which offer third-row seats—to retain any advantages they currently claim in this significant area. New goodies include an iPod jack, a huge center console and an available navigation system. Also new is the “ice blue” interior illumination replacing the blasé Ford green currently staring so many millions of Ford drivers in the face today. More at motortrend