BTW, you obviously haven’t been in the rig or got your info from the wrong source. Escape hasn’t had a column shift since 2004. Center shift console has been standard since spring of 2004, when the 2005 was introduced.

it was “updated”.
the platform is, and will continue to be EXACTLY THE SAME as in 01

facelifts, thats all

“The Escape and Tribute were updated for 2005 with a new base engine (the 2.3 L Duratec 23), added airbag and seatbelt safety systems, an intelligent all wheel drive system, and exterior changes. 2005 was the first model year an automatic transmission was available on the base four-cylinder models. Ford also deleted the recline feature on the rear seats. The Mercury Mariner, new in 2005, was also introduced with these new features. It also included stylistic differences, such as a two-tone interior, European-style turn signal repeaters, monotone cladding, and the signature Mercury “waterfall” front grille.

A significantly facelifted version of the Escape will be released in the second half of 2006, for the 2007 model year. The updated Escape will feature a larger, bolder grille, with additional chrome, as well as restyled front bumper and headlights. Side mirrors will feature integrated indicators. On the inside, changes include a new floor mounted automatic transmission shifter, in place of the old column shifter. Mechanically, the Escape receives a 5-speed automatic in place of the previous 4-speed, and the rear drum brakes of the previous model have been replaced by disc brakes. Engines remain the same, but the V6 has been modified to reduce fuel consumption by over 10%, while the 4-cylinder has improved mid-range torque and an electronic throttle

All long in the tooth currently or for their time…

and when the did the escape come out,um 2001

why is it us car makers have such LONG model lifes, and makers like say – toyota or honda, have 5 year cycles

how bout that ranger that is on about year 22