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Section:Gallery
The reasons for Escape’s success are numerous. It’s good looking, comfortable and economical. It sports the latest tech wizardry and has the power to surprise; its available hands-free liftgate is one of the segments most thoughtful — and unexpected — innovations.
Curve Control technology slows the Escape if it’s cornering too fast; Torque Vectoring Control brakes the inside front wheel while supplying additional torque to the outside wheel for improved handling and traction.
Though some small crossovers offer roomier cabins, four adults ride comfortably in the Escape. The reclining rear seatback folds easily to create a flat load floor. To achieve a flat floor, Ford reduced seat-cushion thickness, which may compromise comfort on long trips.
Up front, I enjoyed comfortable seats but wanted more incidental storage space. I still find the MyFord Touch infotainment system too complicated, but owners who use it daily say it has become more transparent.
Perhaps the Escape’s most dramatic differentiator is what Ford calls the power of choice; in a segment where builders commonly offer only a single engine choice, Ford offers three, a normally aspirated four and a pair of turbocharged fours. Each has its own strengths, with efficiency as the common denominator.
Following a 2013 makeover, little changes for the Escape. It’s available in front- and all-wheel-drive and in three trims; the base, FWD-only S ($23,505, including destination), SE ($25,955) and Titanium ($29,915).
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