With a stylish new design, the 2008 Ford Escape now looks like a midsize SUV. Many consumers wonder if they can tow a trailer or a boat with a compact utility vehicle. So we headed out for a series of tests with a trailer carrying a 3,400-lb race car. At first glance, the Escape seemed small but it proved to be up to the task regardless of the challenge. That said, this exercise reminded us a few things about weight transfers...
Comfort up front
The Limited model has it all -- or almost. Access is made easier thanks to the optional integrated sidesteps. However, as my wife pointed out, a door-mounted support handle would have been helpful and appreciated. The front seats are comfortable and supportive. There's also a lot of handy storage compartments and the quality of the audio unit in this particular model is noteworthy. Finally, while the HVAC system is good, I would have liked a quieter fan.
I found the instrument backlighting pleasant to look at. The information is easy to read, but several controls are positioned too low on the left side of the steering wheel. All-around visibility is good and the big sideview mirrors make it easier to park the trailer. It rained a lot during our test week, which allowed me to appreciate the Escape's wipers. As for lighting, I had to use the fog lights in order to get a better view of the lower sides of the road; the standard headlights are not powerful enough.
Average cargo area
Of course, the cargo area appears decently sized at first glance. But when the time comes to load all your gear, you have to rely on the versatility of the second row. I was disappointed to find out that you have to take the headrests off in order to fold the seatbacks completely flat. Fortunately, said headrests can be stowed underneath the trunk's tray. The resulting cargo room is quite sizeable (see pictures).
If you have a family of three, you'll have no problems stuffing all your equipment for a long camping trip. On the other hand, with four occupants, you can't pack in more stuff than you need. Sure, the trailer can help you with the excess luggage, but remember not to overload it as your safety could be compromised.
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| The Escape's towing capacities will satisfy most owners. |
Comfort up front
The Limited model has it all -- or almost. Access is made easier thanks to the optional integrated sidesteps. However, as my wife pointed out, a door-mounted support handle would have been helpful and appreciated. The front seats are comfortable and supportive. There's also a lot of handy storage compartments and the quality of the audio unit in this particular model is noteworthy. Finally, while the HVAC system is good, I would have liked a quieter fan.
I found the instrument backlighting pleasant to look at. The information is easy to read, but several controls are positioned too low on the left side of the steering wheel. All-around visibility is good and the big sideview mirrors make it easier to park the trailer. It rained a lot during our test week, which allowed me to appreciate the Escape's wipers. As for lighting, I had to use the fog lights in order to get a better view of the lower sides of the road; the standard headlights are not powerful enough.
Average cargo area
Of course, the cargo area appears decently sized at first glance. But when the time comes to load all your gear, you have to rely on the versatility of the second row. I was disappointed to find out that you have to take the headrests off in order to fold the seatbacks completely flat. Fortunately, said headrests can be stowed underneath the trunk's tray. The resulting cargo room is quite sizeable (see pictures).
If you have a family of three, you'll have no problems stuffing all your equipment for a long camping trip. On the other hand, with four occupants, you can't pack in more stuff than you need. Sure, the trailer can help you with the excess luggage, but remember not to overload it as your safety could be compromised.
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| Once the rear seatbacks are folded flat, the available cargo room is fairly generous. |