The 2013 Ford Escape is a complete makeover that will impress even the most critical car enthusiasts. It is packed with features and drives significantly better than its predecessor, not to mention that it is more fuel efficient too.
A unibody platform shared with a European Ford called "Kuga" underpins the new Escape. All three engine choices have four-cylinders, the V6 Escape is history. There's also a host of technology upgrades to improve performance, safety, multi-media features and reduce its environmental impact.
A 2.0 litre EcoBoost engine that offers more power plus 30 per cent better fuel economy replaces the 3.0 litre V6. Lighter and more compact, the turbocharged Ecoboost engine comes with direct fuel injection and twin independent variable camshaft timing.
A smaller 1.6 litre Ecoboost engine comes in the mid trim range SE version of the Escape and the base S trim comes with a conventional, tried and true 2.5 litre, which is a hold-over engine from the previous generation Escape. All engines are mated with a new 6-speed automatic transmission with both sport and manual addition modes of operation.
New Escape also offers a uniquely different kind of hands-free technology. A kicking action by the key-fob holder, under the rear bumper, can open or close the power operated rear door. It`s a handy way to access the cargo area when you`re carrying something. The door-opening is triggered by motion-sensing technology similar to that used in video games.
Discarded plastic bottles are a major environmental pollution issue and Ford has found a way to use them in the manufacture of carpets inside the new Escape. This initiative alone is expected to recycle four million plastic bottles annually, according to Ford. In addition, all the sound dampening and seat cushion materials are also made from recycled materials.
Advanced tech features available include an active park assist system that can detect and then automatically steer the Escape into a parallel parking space. There's also a blind spot vehicle detection system that comes with cross-traffic alert, which is a valuable aid when reversing blindly out of a parking stall.
The last generation Escape was the most popular compact SUV sold in all of North
