2008 Ford Escape: Redesigned sport-ute remains affordable

With the benefits of a complete redesign inside and out for 2008, the Ford Escape now makes a more powerful statement with a bolder, more rugged exterior design that bears a strong family resemblance to larger siblings Explorer and Expedition. Plus its price has remained in an affordable range.

Additionally, an all-new interior features the industry's first fabric seating surfaces made from 100 percent recycled material. Escape for 2008 features one of the most advanced safety packages in the small SUV segment, including standard side curtain airbags and AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control).

Available in front-wheel drive or Intelligent all-wheel drive, base power for the Escape is generated by a Duratec 2.3L four-cylinder engine connected to a five-speed manual gearbox. A Duratec 3.0L V-6 engine bolted to a four-speed automatic transmission is an available option.

The available Intelligent all-wheel-drive system (AWD) was tuned with an emphasis toward driving performance while offering confident all-weather driving. Using a preemptive slip strategy, the system continuously monitors vehicle speed, throttle input and steering angle to seamlessly deliver torque to the appropriate wheel even before wheel slippage occurs.

Escape's unibody construction and four-wheel independent suspension contribute to its car-like ride and handling.

Inside the cabin, the all-new interior features more upscale appointments, new innovative storage options and improved comfort and quietness. The Escape features Ford's first use of a "top of dash" display positioned at eye level on the dashboard, which shows ambient temperature, radio functions and climate-control readouts. This simple, efficient design puts much of the vehicles' information in one place at the top of the dashboard, making it easier to reference when driving.

The SUV is also equipped with Ford's new signature Ice Blue interior lighting. The cool blue lighting replaces the traditional green on the instrument cluster, center console, steering wheel controls and the door lock and window switches.

Escape also is available in a hybrid model.

EPA fuel economy: City: 20, Highway: 26

MSRP range: $19,000 to $25,000