2005 Ford Escape XLT, Sport and Limited

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The 2005 Ford Escape is the smallest SUV of the comprehensive Ford sport utility line-up. Highlights of changes for 2005 include new and improved Duratec engines, 4 and 6-cylinders, and a thorough redesign. The Escape is geared active "young at heart" drivers and first-time SUV buyers who are looking for all the SUV capability with improved fuel economy and value.

The compact Escape uses a unibody construction that allows it to handle more like a coupe than a sport utility vehicle. However, when you take to the trails, you'll be glad it isn't a coupe.

Available Models
The upscale members of this entry-level compact Ford SUV include the XLT V6, the XLT Sport and top-level Limited. Entry-level XLS Value and the automatic transmission-equipped XLS and the XLT 4-cylinder are reviewed separately. Ford has also introduced a gas/electric Hybrid vehicle in the Escape configuration.

Interior Features
Even the entry level Escape, the XLS Value, has a great collection of standards. Not surprisingly, the up-level trims are really packed with luxury and interior amenity. SUV's have become the new luxury car class, matching most full-size sedans for interior features and the Escape is no exception.

On top of the basic package of power windows, power door locks and remote keyless entry and air conditioning, the XLT I-4 adds an upgraded audio system (AM/FM stereo with six-disc in-dash CD changer), premium cloth seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat and floor mats. The XLT Sport adds mostly exterior details but the Limited's top-level trim is a different story. The Limited adds such luxuries as leather seating surfaces, an overhead console with dual storage bins, automatic headlamps, auto-dimming rearview mirror, message center and dual illuminated vanity mirrors. A number of stand-alone options and options packages enhance the choice even further.

Exterior Features
The 2005 Escape has had a face-lift. Its fresh, aggressive look features new headlamps, fog lamps, front and rear fascias. The lower bumpers in the front and rear have stylized ribs. 15-inch and 16-inch aluminum wheels and a honeycomb grille provide styling that will appeal to the Escape's target demographic. What's more the various trim's have significant exterior differences.

The XLT features 16-inch aluminum wheels, fog lamps, privacy glass and a roof rack with two horizontal bars. The XLT Sport adds 16-inch bright machined aluminum wheels, Dark Shadow Grey fascia, cladding and wheel-lip moldings and black step bars. Finally, the top-level Limited has a monochromatic appearance with body-color door and liftgate handles, fascia and cladding.

Performance
Naturally, with Ford, one can expect good quality workmanship and a reasonable power profile. The Escape V-6 engines have an improved Duratec engine for 2005. 200 peak horsepower at 6000 rpm and 196 lb-ft at 4850 rpm make it one of the most powerful engines in the segment. Other performance upgrades include an Automatic Intelligent 4WD System that improves fuel efficiency and a redesigned interior with flow-through console and a floor-mounted shifter while engineering advances have produced a quieter interior.

Safety and Security
As a vehicle family designed to work for families, the Escape has a great focus on safety. The standard safety equipment list, even at the entry-level, includes dual-front airbags, automatic-off headlights, and antilock brakes with Quick Brake Assist, a system which recognizes hard braking and assists the driver in applying maximum braking force. Additionally, revisions to the body structure have improved performance in offset frontal crashes. Ford predicts the Escape to be the first vehicle in its class to meet the newly amended Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 208 for occupant crash protection.

As for occupant safety, the Escape is leading the field with the addition of standard passenger-seat weight-sensing technology and the Personal Safety System™ with an occupant classification sensor. LATCH child seat attachments in rear outboard seating positions, head restraints and three-point safety belts and the SecuriLock passive anti-theft system round out the list of requirements.

Finally, the Escape offers the optional Safety Package that combines Ford's exclusive Safety Canopy™ rollover protection system with front side air bags. The compact Escape uses a unibody construction that allows it to handle more like a coupe than a sport utility vehicle. However, when you take to the trails, you'll be glad it isn't a coupe.