New 2010 Ford Escape

The 2010 Ford Escape is a small SUV that is big on fun and features. The Escape blends affordability with entry-level luxury, and touches on high-end luxury with some options.

Ford’s diminutive SUV comes in both two-wheel and all-wheel drive, and starts off with a 171-horsepower, 2.5-liter inline-four engine that is mated to either a five-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic. That six-speed automatic is a big deal, as most SUV’s in this crossover segment, such as the Honda CR-V, offer only a five-speed automatic. For more grunt, drivers can step up to the 240-horsepower, 3.0-liter V-6 with the six-speed automatic. Depending on options, the Escape achieves 19-22 city mpg and 25-28 highway mpg.

Inside the 2010 Ford Escape XLS, owners will find cloth seats and a single-CD stereo. Those environmentally-conscious buyers will be happy to know the seat foam is soy-based, and they can get optional 100-percent recycled material seat fabric. The XLT adds cloth fabric and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, plus premium options including a sunroof, alloy trim, and an optional 320-watt stereo. The Limited model tops the Escape line with premium leather seats and an optional rear view camera and navigation system. The Escape Limited also features an optional TV and DVD player package — that’s a big deal in this segment.

The two crown jewels in the Escape’s electronics suite are the SYNC® system and an electronic parking assist system. Buyers can get SYNC® with personalized traffic report and driving directions capabilities. Ford’s optional Active Park Assist system uses the Escape’s electronic power steering and parking sensors to parallel park the vehicle, while the driver operates the gas, brake and transmission. This is a phenomenal offering for such a low cost vehicle.

Even with all these great features designed into this small package, the Escape still gets great safety ratings. Antilock brakes, stability and traction control all come standard. A robust chassis and front, front-side and head airbags unite to get Five-Star front and side crash-test ratings, that surpass the Toyota RAV4’s ratings.

The 2010 Ford Escape is small on size and fuel consumption but high on features and utility. If you want a nimble, fun vehicle with high-end features, room for the kids and lots of stuff — all for an affordable price — the Escape is ready and waiting.