2009 Ford Escape

The smallest SUV in Ford's range, the Escape has withstood the test of time, with little updates since its debut in 2001. While the face is new for 2008, it is familiar, and the revamped exterior and interior are draped over the same platform as the outgoing model's. The Escape is one of three triplets (the Mercury Milan and Mazda Tribute) that are different only in the way they look inside and out, where you go to service it, and what you pay for it.

There are two engine options as well as the choice of front- or all-wheel drive: a 2.3L four-cylinder is the base engine, delivering 153hp and 20 city / 26 highway mpg in auto and FWD guise, as well as a 200hp 3.0L V6, returning 18 / 24 mpg numbers when pulled by the front wheels only. A five-speed manual transmission can be had only with the base, FWD four-cylinder model. This combo is good for a rate of fuel consumption of 22 / 28mpg.

Three trim levels - XLS, XLT and Limited - exist, and the AWD system is optional on all. Six airbags along with Ford's Safety Canopy system, AdvanceTrac® with RSC®, as well as a tire pressure monitoring system are all standard safety features common to all trims.

A new standard feature for 2008 includes a speed-sensitive Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) system that replaces the old hydraulic one and helps the new SUV get better fuel economy than last year's model. Also, a new 10-inch front disc / rear drum braking system is claimed to improve durability while decreasing noise and dust levels.

For the environmentally-concerned, Ford offered a hybrid version of the SUV since 2004, being the first automaker to do so. It makes 133hp and posts the best EPA fuel economy numbers of 34mpg in the city and 30 on the highway when equipped with FWD, or 29 city / 27 highway with AWD. It is also capable of near-silent operation during low speeds on electric power alone and can tow 1,000lbs.