Ford Escape 2001 - 2007 review

2006 Ford Escape

2006 Ford Escape interior, click for larger view

2006 Ford Escape

Ford Escape is a mid-size car-based comfortable and functional SUV. Ford Escape was developed in association with Mazda; Mazda Tribute is built on the same platform. Ford Escape was the America's best-selling small SUV for a few years.
Hybrid version is available from 2005.

The Escape has car-like unibody construction with fully independent suspension and comes as a front- or four-wheel drive. The drivetrain choices include a transversely-mounted 4-cylinder or V6 engine and a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. The ABS is optional (standard from 2006). The Escape has disk brakes in front and drums in the back (all four disk brakes are available on late V6 4WD models).

The interior is comfortable and roomy, but conservatively-styled and some materials lack refinement. The tall driving position offers good visibility. The split rear seat can be easily folded flat (with headrests removed) for extra cargo room.

The Escape offers a comfortable ride and good handling for an SUV. Some engine and wind noise are noticeable, especially at highway speed. The optional four-wheel drive system provides good traction on a slippery road, although it's not designed for heavy off-roading.

In the NHTSA frontal crash tests, the 2001-2004 Ford Escape received five stars for the driver and four stars for the front passenger. The 2004-2007 Ford Escape received four stars for both the driver and the front passenger.