Clearly hoping to take the Escape's solid reputation for ride dynamics to a new level, Ford will bring out an XLT Sport version of the compact SUV in the spring of 2001.
Along with all of the stuff that's standard on the XLT trim, and the stuff you normally find on a "Sport" package from any manufacturer, the Escape XLT Sport will come with something Ford says is an industry first?a dual-loading rack system, dubbed the No Boundaries Rack System.
The No Boundaries Rack System offers a sliding rail from the roof that customers can pull down vertically across the rear of the vehicle and lock into the bumper. Ford says this will provide customers with two separate loading surfaces?a more traditional one on the roof and an additional one across the rear.
"Whether carrying skis or bikes or both, active Escape XLT Sport customers will make sure those racks are never empty," says Jim O'Connor, who used to be president of Ford of Canada but is now president of the Ford Division. "But, if their particular adventure doesn't require that added functionality all the time, the sliding rails can be stored within the conventional roof portion of the rack system."
Along with this new rack, the Escape XLT Sport package will include unique 5-spoke, 16-inch wheels and tires, a standard step bar, privacy glass and floor mats. The XLT Sport will be available only with four-wheel drive- and V-6 engine-equipped Escapes.
"The Escape XLT Sport is for the most active Escape customers who appreciate the built-in functionality of Escape, but want the additional innovation provided by the dual-loading No Boundaries Rack System," says O'Connor.