2008 Ford Escape - A Leader in Compact SUVs
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The 2008 Escape is a compact SUV from Ford; it is the first US vehicle to showcase the application of seating surfaces made entirely from 100 percent recycled materials. The Escape was redesigned for this model year, and what was already an excellent vehicle is even better. It offers not only conventional drivetrains, but also a well performing hybrid. There's a Ford Escape model for most tastes and needs. Ford Escape prices have dropped considerably the past few years. The premium for the Escape Hybrid has also decreased. It's now less than $2,000 more than a comparably equipped Limited. The Ford Escape remains one of the more appealing vehicles in its class, regardless of price, and certainly one of the better values – especially for those looking for a traditional truck based SUV.
New for 2008
For this model year just about every aspect of the Escape has gotten an update, and overall this is a much more refined vehicle than it was the previous year. The 2008 redesign brings new wheels, a new interior, three new paint colors and an aux-jack standard on all radios. The Escape's standard safety features are also upgraded significantly for 2008. None of its major body panels are common to previous models, but the redesign is evolutionary and the most obvious changes are in the details.
Ford Escape Design
The new Escape has the feeling of a conventional, truck-based SUV, with a more rugged look than many other small, sedan-platform sport-utilities. The base Escape XLS has a chrome grille and body-colored fascia from the bumper down. The XLT is identical, except for prominent fog lights in the front bumper. The Limited and Hybrid have grilles painted to match the body, unless you opt for the Chrome Appearance Package. The 2008 Escape has been redesigned with a more aggressive new grille and headlamps, but retains its popular overall look and size that have made it a sales-leader for Ford. Its new styling deliberately invokes Ford's larger, truck-based Expedition and Explorer sport-utilities. Escape's ride height and seating position are a bit higher than competitors such as the Honda CR-V. Escape's beltline is high, and its roof pillars are blacked out. The lower bumpers and rocker panels are now painted to match the body on all models, rather than molded in a matte finish. The roof on the 2008 Ford Escape is designed to reduce interior noise. Recessed channels running its length are intended to move air more quietly over the surface. Horizontal ribs underneath the panel add structure, which limits flex in the metal and reduces booming noise inside at high speeds.
Inside the 2008 Escape
The new 2008 Ford Escape still provides comfortable seating for four, or five in a pinch, but with noticeably more headroom than in pre-2008 models. Folding the rear seats opens a good sized cargo area with a flat floor, and space behind the seat surpasses that in the trunk of the typical sedan. Interior storage options have improved considerably. The finish is more upscale and pleasing, and feature function and switches are among the best. The inside of the Escape is not significantly roomier but it's well thought out and a definite improvement in ergonomic function and overall visual appeal, and it makes a nicer place to spend time.
Power for the Escape
The Ford Escape is offered with front-wheel drive or fulltime all-wheel drive, and either a four-cylinder, V6, or gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain. The Escape is available with a 153-hp 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine paired to a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission; or a 200-hp 3.0-liter V6 with a four-speed automatic. The base four-cylinder is adequate for all-purpose driving while the V6 offers quicker acceleration performance. All variants, including the V6 and Escape Hybrid, deliver some of best EPA mileage ratings in the class. All, including the gas-electric Hybrid, are offered with either front- or all-wheel drive. For the most part, the Hybrid drives just like a conventional gas-only Escape. This so-called full hybrid features a more fuel efficient, 133-hp Atkinson Cycle version of the four-cylinder engine and a 70 kilowatt electric motor. Unlike some mild hybrid SUVs, the Escape Hybrid can run on 100 percent electric power up to about 25 mph.
Driving the Escape
This small SUV can tow up to 3,500 pounds, which is substantially more than most other vehicles in the class. Its smooth ride and agile handling make driving pleasant, and compared to its SUV siblings such as the Explorer and the over-sized Expedition, the Escape is a breeze to park. The 2008 Ford Escape’s ride height and seating position are higher than a lot of unit-body (sedan style) utilities, though lower than many traditional truck-based SUVs. Several improvements for 2008, including an electric power steering system and changes in suspension tuning, raise the level of refinement above earlier Escapes. All Escape models, from front-wheel-drive four-cylinders to all-wheel-drive V6s to the Hybrid, have some of the best EPA mileage ratings in the class.
Safety Features
Escape now sets the class benchmark for safety features. Standard safety features on the 2008 Escape include front and side airbags. Also standard are side-curtain airbags that cover both rows, AdvanceTrac stability control with anti-rollover technology, four-wheel ABS and tire pressure monitoring. Safety features that were extra-cost options on lower-trim models are now standard across the board, including Ford's Roll Stability Control system.
2008 Lineup
There are four trim levels available for 2008, and they are distinguished by engine and standard features. The Escape XLS comes with cloth upholstery, air conditioning, power windows, mirrors and locks, an AM/FM stereo with CD and auxiliary jack, rear window defroster and 16-inch steel wheels.
The Escape XLT add more standard features, including upgraded cloth upholstery, a power driver's seat, cruise control, privacy glass and 16-inch alloy wheels.
The Escape Limited come standard with leather seating, a 6CD changer and automatic headlights. The Escape Hybrid is equipped similarly to the Limited models, but add the hybrid powertrain.
Summary
The 2008 Ford Escape represents a shining star for Ford, and it is competitive in a crowded field of small sport-utilities, regardless of price. With excellent mileage for all Escape models, and rather refined driving, the Escape is suitable for a daily driver or even a family vehicle. The bottom line is this is one of the best SUVs on the compact SUV market. Read about the Ford Escape Hybrid for a different powertrain option.
