SUV show -- 2008 Ford Escape

The Escape is Ford’s compact 4-door SUV that was added to the Ford lineup for 2001. The Escape is built on a platform that was developed with Mazda and is shared with the Mazda Tribute. The Escape features unibody construction, 4-wheel independent suspension, and is available with either front-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive. For 2008 the Escape receives a total makeover inside and out featuring a more rugged design to bear a stronger family resemblance to the Ford Explorer and Ford Expedition. Inside, the seating surfaces are made from 100 percent post-industrial materials rather than virgin fibers, a process that helps conserve water and electricity. Also, the center console is large enough to hold a laptop computer and it can also be removed and hung from the front passenger side and rear of the console for additional storage.

The 2008 Ford Escape receives a makeover inside and out featuring a bolder, rugged design, higher beltline, raised hood and a new front fascia with headlights that sweep up toward the front corners of the vehicle to short side marker lights. The interior features seating surfaces comprised of 100 percent post-industrial materials, a revised dashboard with “a top of dash” display, Electric Power Assisted Steering system, improved center console, Ice Blue interior lighting. A number of updates have been made to reduce noise, vibration and harshness levels inside the SUV including changes to the roof panel for a better airflow, a new acoustic laminate sandwiched between two glass panels in the windshield and new carpeting. Under the hood is a 2.3-liter 16-valve Duratec 23 4-cylinder engine that produces 153 horsepower and 152 lb-ft of torque mated to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic. Optional is a 200-horsepower 3.0-liter 24-valve V6.