Main Entry- escape
Pronunciation: is-'kAp, es-, dial iks-'kAp
Function: verb
Inflected Form(s): es·caped; es·cap·ing
1 a: to get away (as by flight) <escaped from prison> b: to issue from confinement <gas is escaping> c: of a plant: to run wild from cultivation
2: to avoid a threatening evil transitive senses
1: to get free of: break away from <escape the jungle> <escape the solar system>
2: to get or stay out of the way of: avoid
3: to fail to be noticed or recallable by <his name escapes me>

In today's fast-paced society, breaking away for a few minutes of solitude is more important than ever. To this end, the 2005 Ford Escape has been significantly revamped from last year's model and designed to offer a quiet ride and superior comfort in a moderately priced, mid-size package.

The 2005 Ford Escape is bigger, faster and more comfortable in every way. High expectations remain for this mid-sized SUV, as the previous generation was a strong seller.

Personally, I find the third transitive definition of escape to be more than amusing, given the recent past record of recalls at Ford. I'm sure it is now the goal of every designer and engineer to develop a vehicle that escapes a recall.

Two engines are available for the 2005 Ford Escape. The base engine is a Duratec 2.3L, 4-cylinder engine that produces 153 hp at 5,800 rpm and 152 lb.-ft of torque at 4,250 rpm. The higher performance engine is a Duratec 3.0L, 6-cylinder that generates 200 hp at 6,000 rpm and 193 lb.-ft of torque at 4,850 rpm.

Of course Ford has also designed a Hybrid version of the new Escape, but we will save that for a review in the future.

A 5-speed manual transmission and 4-speed automatic are available with the 4-cylinder engine, while the 6-cylinder is mated to the automatic transmission only. Ford understands that not all SUVs are driven off-road. With this in mind, the new Escape is offered in both front-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive versions.

The front suspension is a fully independent, MacPherson strut design with L-shaped lower control arms, coil springs and stabilizer bar. The rear suspension is independent Multilink with two lateral links and trailing arms.

In the minds of the engineers at Ford, this setup allows for the best compromise of on-road comfort and off-road performance. In my real world test, I found little to complain about while driving city streets and highways, and reasonable performance when taking a short cut through several local dirt roads.

Brakes are front disc and rear drum, with ABS being standard on all models. Steering is rack and pinion power assist.

Inside, the new Ford Escape has kicked it up a notch. By improving both useable space and design, seating capacity is set at five, with excellent head, leg and foot room for all. Even though the rear middle seat passenger space is tight, it is still a comfortable place to sit.

Rear trunk space is good at 29.3 inches and improves to 66.3 inches with rear seats folded down and bottom cushion removed.

Manual air conditioning is standard on all models. The base XLS model gets an AM/FM stereo with single CD and four speakers, while the XLT and Limited models offer a 6-disc, in-dash CD player. An optional 7-speaker system is available for order on all models except the manual XLS.

Power door locks, power windows with one-touch down on the driver's side and power mirrors are standard. A remote keyless entry system with passive anti-theft is also included in every Escape. White faced gauges are easy to read, and all essential controls are within easy reach. A floor console with dual-cupholders and a storage bin make for an easy place to put things.

Two-speed intermittent wipers and a rear defroster add function, while tilt-steering and fully adjustable front seats in either cloth or optional leather add warmth and comfort.

Dual-stage air bags for both front seat occupants include an Occupant Classification Sensor for the passenger seat. An optional front side air bag system with Safety Canopy is available.

The exterior styling of the new Ford Escape improves airflow around the vehicle, while at the same time offering buyers a more refined look and feel. The 2005 version distinguishes itself nicely when parked beside last year's model. Add 16" aluminum wheels and a leather interior, and the new Escape takes on the appearance of a much more expensive vehicle.

Every one of us is looking for a little break from the hustle and bustle in our daily lives. Whether we find ourselves in rush hour traffic, or making our way through a crowded forest of trees in backcountry, U.S.A., the 2005 Ford Escape is up to the task.

JUST THE FACTS

For More Information Click: Ford Escape
For the Ford 2005 Model Guide : Click Here