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The five-passenger Ford Escape is offered with front-wheel drive or fulltime all-wheel drive, and either a four-cylinder, V6, or gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain. The four trim levels are distinguished by engine and standard features.
The Escape XLS ($20,515) and XLS 4WD ($22,265) are powered by a 171-hp 2.5-liter inline four that generates 171 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, and a six-speed automatic ($1,210) is optional. The XLS comes with cloth upholstery, air conditioning, power windows, mirrors and locks, an AM/FM stereo with CD and auxiliary jack, rear window defroster and 16-inch steel wheels.
Options for the XLS include remote start ($345), SYNC ($395), side step bars ($345), and a security system ($250).
The Escape XLT ($23,540) and XLT 4WD ($25,290) add more standard features, including upgraded cloth upholstery, a power driver's seat, cruise control, privacy glass and 16-inch alloy wheels. A 240-hp, dual overhead cam 3.0-liter V6 ($1,000) is optional on the XLT, and includes the six-speed automatic.
Options for the XLT include a variety of packages, with the most comprehensive, Package 204A ($2,230), including a cargo cover, roof rack, wet towel bin, SYNC, a moonroof, leather, and ambient lighting. There is also Premium sound with seven speakers ($395), a dual-headrest DVD entertainment system ($1,995), Sport Appearance Package ($895), 17-inch alloy wheels ($695), and towing ($345).
The Escape Limited ($25,270) and Limited 4WD ($27,020) come standard with the V6 and automatic, plus leather seating, a six-CD changer and automatic headlights.
Options for the Limited include Package 302A ($2,250), consisting of the moonroof, Premium audio system, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, reverse-sensing system, rear-view camera, and universal garage-door opener; and navigation with the Premium sound ($1,995).
The Escape Hybrid is available in two trim levels, the base version ($29,750) and the base with 4WD ($31,500); and the Hybrid Limited ($32,260) and Hybrid Limited 4WD ($34,010). The Hybrid Limited versions are equipped similarly to the Limited models, but add the hybrid powertrain. This so-called full hybrid features a more fuel efficient, 153-hp Atkinson Cycle version of the four-cylinder engine and a 70 kilowatt electric motor. Unlike some mild hybrid SUVs, the Escape Hybrid can run on 100 percent electric power up to about 25 mph.
Safety features include front- and side-impact airbags for front occupants and curtain-type head protection airbags for all outboard seats. The side curtains can remain inflated for several seconds in the event of a rollover, and are designed to slide between the side glass and occupants if the people are oddly seated or resting heads against a window. Active safety systems include four-channel antilock brakes (ABS), and AdvanceTrac electronic stability control with Roll Stability Control (RSC), which adds a second gyroscopic roll-rate sensor to the typical stability control package, measuring the Escape's roll angle and roll rate and applying countermeasures (such as braking one of the wheels or reducing power) to increase rollover resistance.
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