Ford Escape is a fun, well-balanced on-road SUV. It has a roomy interior and good cargo capacity. A new four-cylinder engine brings needed power and the availability of an automatic. The available V6 engine provides the Escape with strong power. The new interior and suspension tuning make it more comfortable and more convenient. A four-wheel independent suspension and unit-body construction make it ride and handle almost as well as a car, but it isn't designed for serious off-road driving. Styling revisions give the 2005 Escape a fresh face.
The Escape Hybrid is the world's first gas-electric SUV, and can deliver huge mileage gains and greatly reduced emissions, though it adds about $4,000 to the cost.
air conditioning, anti-theft system with perimeter alarm, four-wheel anti-lock brakes, cargo cover and convenience net, center console with armrest, cruise control, front fog lamps, privacy glass, chrome grille, dual visor mirrors, AM/FM/cassette with in-dash six-CD changer, six-way power driver's seat with manual lumbar control, five-spoke alloy wheels, full carpeting, floor mats, electric rear window defroster, power locks, illuminated remote keyless entry, headlights with automatic off/delay, power mirrors, accessory power outlet in rear cargo area, tachometer, power windows with express down for driver's window
Options as tested (MSRP):
XLT No Boundaries package ($1055) includes P235/70R-16 all-terrain white-letter tires, 16-in aluminum wheels, Class II trailer towing package, black step bars, special roof rack system; Mach stereo with 6-CD changer ($565); cargo cover ($75); side air curtain ($425)
Destination charge:
($590)
Gas guzzler tax:
N/A
Price as tested (MSRP):
$27,240
Layout:
four-wheel drive
Engine:
3.0-liter DOHC 24-valve V6
Horsepower (hp @ rpm):
200 @ 5900
Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm):
196 @ 4700
Transmission:
4-speed automatic
EPA fuel economy, city/hwy:
18/23 mpg
Wheelbase:
103.1 in.
Length/width/height:
173.0/70.1/69.1 in.
Track, f/r:
61.2/61.0 in.
Turning circle:
35.4 ft.
Seating capacity:
5
Head/hip/leg room, f:
38.3/53.4/42.7 in.
Head/hip/leg room, m:
N/A
Head/hip/leg room, r:
36.9/49.0/36.4 in.
Cargo volume:
69.2 cu. ft.
Payload:
N/A
Towing capacity:
3500 Lbs.
Suspension, f:
independent MacPherson strut, coil springs, anti-roll bar
Suspension, r:
independent, multi-link, coil springs
Ground clearance:
7.8 in.
Curb weight:
3346 lbs.
Tires:
P235/70R16
Brakes, f/r:
disc/disc with ABS, EBD, Brake Assist
Fuel capacity:
16.0 gal.
Unless otherwise indicated, specifications refer to test vehicle.
All prices are manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) effective as of March 01, 2004.
Prices do not include manufacturer's destination and delivery charges.
N/A: Information not available or not applicable.
Manufacturer Info Sources:
1-800-392-FORD -
www.fordvehicles.com
