Big, powerful albeit gas-guzzling SUVs are not exactly popular these days -- and understandably so. If you really need one, that's fine, but if you're merely looking for fun and minimum ruggedness, you're likely more interested in something smaller.
For those who insist on driving a sport utility vehicle, there's one manufacturer with a proven yet underrated machine: the Ford Escape. In addition to a hybrid powertrain (efficient but expensive) and a 3.0-liter V6 engine (powerful but thirsty), this best-selling model is also available with a relatively frugal 4-cylinder. Such was the case of my tester.
Revisited engine
While its current shape dates back to the early years of the 21st century, the Ford Escape did receive a number of changes and upgrades since then. Nothing major, though -- just a couple of facelifts to bring styling up to date.
It's a fairly different story under the hood, however. For instance, the engine of the 2009 Ford Escape XLT has been thoroughly revisited. Displacement is up from 2.3 to 2.5 liters with a corresponding increase in horsepower from 153 to 171. Yet, fuel economy remains identical to last year's model. At 9.8 L/100 km (real-world testing), this Escape might not be a leader in efficiency, but it's a reasonably green performer nonetheless.
The power gain is particularly noticeable at cruising speeds, where the little Ford proves quieter and more enjoyable. When taking off from a standstill, you can even hammer the throttle and wind up with the same acceleration times as the old V6 (according to the automaker). That's impressive. Too bad this four-banger is a bit noisy when pushed to the limit, though.
Another "Built Ford Tough" truck
It would have been crazy to perform a major overhaul on a vehicle that remains atop compact SUV sales charts in Canada. Rather, designers chose to add superficial tweaks in subtle fashion. That said, the available Sport Package brings a new, more assertive dimension to the Escape, especially the black alloy wheels that contribute to a more aggressive-looking stance.
Overall, the 2009 Ford Escape retains its "tough little rascal" looks thanks to a highly-prominent blacked-out grille and squat body.
For those who insist on driving a sport utility vehicle, there's one manufacturer with a proven yet underrated machine: the Ford Escape. In addition to a hybrid powertrain (efficient but expensive) and a 3.0-liter V6 engine (powerful but thirsty), this best-selling model is also available with a relatively frugal 4-cylinder. Such was the case of my tester.
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| This little ute will gladly take you to your destination, but it has never been intended for extreme adventures. |
Revisited engine
While its current shape dates back to the early years of the 21st century, the Ford Escape did receive a number of changes and upgrades since then. Nothing major, though -- just a couple of facelifts to bring styling up to date.
It's a fairly different story under the hood, however. For instance, the engine of the 2009 Ford Escape XLT has been thoroughly revisited. Displacement is up from 2.3 to 2.5 liters with a corresponding increase in horsepower from 153 to 171. Yet, fuel economy remains identical to last year's model. At 9.8 L/100 km (real-world testing), this Escape might not be a leader in efficiency, but it's a reasonably green performer nonetheless.
The power gain is particularly noticeable at cruising speeds, where the little Ford proves quieter and more enjoyable. When taking off from a standstill, you can even hammer the throttle and wind up with the same acceleration times as the old V6 (according to the automaker). That's impressive. Too bad this four-banger is a bit noisy when pushed to the limit, though.
Another "Built Ford Tough" truck
It would have been crazy to perform a major overhaul on a vehicle that remains atop compact SUV sales charts in Canada. Rather, designers chose to add superficial tweaks in subtle fashion. That said, the available Sport Package brings a new, more assertive dimension to the Escape, especially the black alloy wheels that contribute to a more aggressive-looking stance.
Overall, the 2009 Ford Escape retains its "tough little rascal" looks thanks to a highly-prominent blacked-out grille and squat body.
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| The Sport Package brings a new, more assertive dimension to the Escape, especially the black alloy wheels. |