Enter the best-selling compact SUV on the market: the Ford Escape. The numbers tell you that the compact Escape strikes more chords with more folks around the country than any other compact SUV. They don't tell you why. That's okay, we will.

First, the boxy little Escape looks great. Big, blocky shapes make the Escape appear larger than it is, projecting a G.I. Joe attitude in a Pokemon market segment. The Tribute's look is dressier, more urban, and to many eyes, it's the more attractive of the two. But while the styling of this duo differs, their interiors are virtually identical: comfortable, roomy and ergonomically sound. Exactly what you'd expect from a Ford SUV. The optional stereo is a good one, so be sure to check that on the options list. And perforated leather seats are also available.

The only bummer is that you can't get the torquey 200-HP V-6 with a manual transmission, nor can you get the 130-HP four-cylinder with the automatic transmission. So if you want the fuel-saving four-cylinder, you'd better like to row your own. And if you want/need an autobox, you're going to be shelling out more dough up front and at the pump.