The trim levels are easy to distinguish from the front of the car. The base Escape XLS has a chrome grille and body-colored fascia from the bumper down. The XLT is identical, except for prominent fog lights in the front bumper. The Limited and Hybrid have grilles painted to match the body, unless you opt for the Chrome Appearance Package. This adds the chrome grille and more, with brightwork flowing down into the skid plate and bumper. It looks like a big, shiny T on the front of the vehicle.
Some changes to the new Escape are functional more than aesthetic. The side mirrors are larger than before, but Ford claims their shape generates less noise as air speeds over them. The roof, too, is designed to reduce interior noise. Recessed channels running its length are intended to move air more quietly over the surface. Horizontal ribs underneath the panel add structure, which limits flex in the metal and reduces booming noise inside at high speeds.
We're fond of a couple of features in back of the Escape. A new step pad on the bumper provides secure footing for anyone who steps up to put something on the roof rack, and the two-piece tailgate is handy. The rear glass can be popped open with the key fob, so dropping small items like a gym bag into the cargo area is much easier than it might be with some competitors, which require hefting the entire gate upward. Next Page