While the design of the 2010 Ford Escape is carried over from a 2008 redesign, updates to this 5-passenger compact SUV as recently as 2009 have improved power while maintaining good fuel economy.
In '09 the displacement of the base inline-4 was increased from 2.3 to 2.5-liters, resulting in an increase of 18 horsepower, from 153 to 171. The 3-liter V6 is carried over from '09 as well, when it was retooled to get another 40 horsepower, jumping from 200 to 240 horses. Both front wheel drive and all-wheel drive models use a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the base front wheel drive model is available with a 5-speed manual.
Fuel economy for the Escape ranges from 18 miles per gallon city, up to 28 miles per gallon highway, identical to the pre-2009 models but with that significant boost in power.
Trims are Base XLS Manual, XLS, XLT, and Limited. Standard equipment on all Escapes includes 60/40 split-folding rear seat, floor cargo hooks, and a more flexible, multi-level center console. Available features include a wet storage system in the rear and audio input jack.
Base MSRP for the 2010 Ford Escape is $21,060 while a V6 4 wheel-drive Limited starts at $29,100. The Escape is protected by a 5-year, 60,000-mile power train warranty.
Taking styling cues from its full-size brethren, and focusing on versatility, improved power and good fuel economy, the 2010 Ford Escape makes for a formidable competitor in the compact SUV market.