Ford says its 2008 Escape and Escape Hybrid crossovers will grow a little closer to their Explorer and Expedition cousins for the 2008 model year.
A revamped version of the popular crossover vehicle was unveiled at the 2006 Los Angeles auto show and goes on sale in 2007 as a 2008 model.
The new Escapes get chunkier styling outside and a completely revamped interior. The exterior lines were drawn sharper; Ford stylists raised the beltline to better balance the profile of the Escape. Blacked-out B-pillars and a larger grille give the crossover a more masculine appearance than the first-generation ute, which appeared in 2001.
Inside, the Escape's dash has been reworked to include a strip of readouts near the windshield, including temperature and radio functions. Recycled materials are used for all the seating surfaces. And the new audio systems include a standard MP3 jack for personal music players. Ford has swapped out the Escape's green lighting for a new blue treatment-and it's swapped the Escape's small console for a laptop-sized bin between the drive and the front passenger.
Like the similar 2008 Mercury Mariner, the Escape has a revamped range of engines. The 2.3-liter four with 153 horsepower returns, and is teamed with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. A 3.0-liter V-6 option makes 200 horsepower and is mated to a four-speed automatic.
The Escape Hybrid continues with a 2.3-liter four-cylinder, battery packs and a continuously variable transmission combining for 155 hp. Improved software helps the Escape Hybrid distribute power more smoothly, Ford says.
Other mechanical updates include a shift to electric power steering, thicker glass laminates for better sound deadening, and the addition of side curtain airbags.
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