Dealers are anecdotally reporting that there’s a big demand for the Ford Escape, especially the four-cylinder model. One reason, of course, is the political climate, which might make sport utility vehicles extinct in not too many years. But basing the SUV’s popularity just on that attitude would be a disservice to Ford, which has worked hard to keep one of its best-selling SUVs — actually one of the best-selling small SUVs in the United States — ultracompetitive.
As a former owner of a six-cylinder Escape Limited, I wasn’t expecting much when I climbed behind the wheel of a four-cylinder. After all, my former Escape had the power and drive to get us through some pretty nasty off-road adventures without any hassle while maintaining a steady, smooth ride.
| Specs Box: 2011 Ford Escape |
| » Engine: 2.5-liter four-cylinder, 171 hp at 6,000 rpm (as tested) |
| » Transmission: 6-speed automatic (as tested) |
| » Fuel economy: 23 mpg city, 28 mpg highway (as tested) |
| » MSRP: Starting at $21,495 |
I figured the four-cylinder just couldn’t match it. Boy, was I wrong!
The six-speed automatic I tested not only had plenty of power — thanks to the 2.5-liter engine with 171 horsepower at 6,000 rpm — but there were extras on this model to make it safer, smoother and more nimble.
One such feature is spot mirrors — basically an outside rearview mirror with secondary convex spotter in the top outer corner — that eliminate blind spots. Of course, there’s also a rearview camera system available, but as someone who’s had fender benders in cramped parking lots, it’s easy to see how the blind spot elimination is valuable.
As you’d expect, the Escape still boasts anti-lock brakes and Ford’s AdvanceTrac with roll stability control. The solidity of the Escape is something that’s been admirable for years perhaps because there are so many tippy-feeling SUVs. Add to that Ford’s active park assist system with two gyroscopic effect sensors — that basically measure if a parking space is a feasible size for the car — and you have a high-tech ride in a pretty package. There’s also pull-drive compensation technology that adds to the car’s stability.
As impressive as those features are, they’re only some of the high-tech additions that make the Escape an impressive ride. Add to that top fuel economy (23 mpg city, 28 mpg highway for the model I drove) and a host of green additions — seats with soy-based foam that substitutes petroleum-based products and reduced CO2 emissions are just two — and you see why the Escape is a hot seller.
The 2011 Ford Escape has the same athletic build and high-end materials as its older siblings. But despite its attractive appearance and comfortable features — including a three-tier storage area in the front console — it is also built to work. Consider the wet truck bin — perfect for stowing high-end muddy boots and shoes — 67.2 cubic feet of cargo space, and 60/40 fold-down seats and you see why the SUV is ideal for high-energy families and athletes.
Add to that all types of high-tech connectivity and comfort and you see why the 2011 Escape will likely continue as a top seller in the year ahead.
