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2009 Ford Escape Review

July 20, 2009

STYLING | 8 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

Exterior changes are subtle
Popular Mechanics

receives a redesigned center stack
Automobile Magazine

Not even a thorough interior and exterior refresh could save the 2008 iteration from a seventh-place finish
Car and Driver

If you want a small SUV with full-fledged SUV styling, then the 2009 Ford Escape is one of the last remaining options. Ford changed a lot about the Escape compared to last year's model, but styling wasn’t one of them.

“Exterior changes are subtle, and include a front spoiler for slicker aerodynamics and new low rolling resistance Michelin tires for improved fuel economy,” says Popular Mechanics. Upgrades to the Escape’s exterior are minor due to last year’s restyle. “Not even a thorough interior and exterior refresh could save the 2008 iteration from a seventh-place finish out of nine in our latest small-ute roundup,” remarks Car and Driver.

This year’s exterior improvements do serve a purpose. “Small aerodynamic modifications also contribute to fuel efficiency and reduce interior noise levels,” says Automobile.com. They add, “A deeper front spoiler and small spoilers in front of the rear wheels improve under-body airflow for decreased drag to slightly improve mileage.”

For 2009, the Escape's interior receives some minor modifications that help improve its ergonomics. “The 2009 Escape also receives a redesigned center stack, featuring an updated version of Ford's excellent navigation and infotainment system-and, of course, SYNC. The new high-resolution screen is extraordinarily clear, and the menu structures are easy to use,” says Automobile Magazine.

Conclusion

Both inside and out, the 2009 Ford Escape looks nearly identical to its 2008 sibling.

STYLING | 8 out of 10Expert Quotes:Exterior changes are subtlePopular Mechanicsreceives a redesigned center stackAutomobile MagazineNot even a thorough interior and exterior refresh could save the 2008 iteration from a seventh-place finishCar and Driver If you want a small SUV with full-fledged SUV styling, then the 2009 Ford Escape is one of the last remaining options. Ford changed a lot about the Escape compared to last year's model, but styling wasn’t one of them. “Exterior changes are subtle, and include a front spoiler for slicker aerodynamics and new low rolling resistance Michelin tires for improved fuel economy,” says Popular Mechanics. Upgrades to the Escape’s exterior are minor due to last year’s restyle. “Not even a thorough interior and exterior refresh could save the 2008 iteration from a seventh-place finish out of nine in our latest small-ute roundup,” remarks Car and Driver. This year’s exterior improvements do serve a purpose. “Small aerodynamic modifications also contribute to fuel efficiency and reduce interior noise levels,” says Automobile.com. They add, “A deeper front spoiler and small spoilers in front of the rear wheels improve under-body airflow for decreased drag to slightly improve mileage.” For 2009, the Escape's interior receives some minor modifications that help improve its ergonomics. “The 2009 Escape also receives a redesigned center stack, featuring an updated version of Ford's excellent navigation and infotainment system-and, of course, SYNC. The new high-resolution screen is extraordinarily clear, and the menu structures are easy to use,” says Automobile Magazine. ConclusionBoth inside and out, the 2009 Ford Escape looks nearly identical to its 2008 sibling. 2009 FORD ESCAPE STYLING | [8 out of 10] Popular Mechanics: "Exterior changes are subtle" Automobile Magazine: "receives a redesigned center stack" Car and Driver: "Not even a thorough interior and exterior refresh could save the 2008 iteration from a seventh-place finish” If you want ...

Read More of this Review:

  1. styling
  2. performance
  3. quality
  4. safety
  5. features

Other Choices:

If you color within the lines, only a few measure up to the same narrow definition of a compact SUV as the 2009 Ford Escape. Many people admire the styling of the Saturn Vue. Like the Escape, the Vue offers a hybrid option (a second hybrid choice is on the way for the Vue). The Hyundai Tucson drives more like the pre-2009 Escapes, but does so with a low price and an especially long warranty. In terms of driving dynamics, the Honda CR-V is one of our all-time favorites, but some people have a hard time getting past the SUV's styling and the lack of optional V-6 power. However, the SUV that comes closest to the Escape is the Dodge Journey. In terms of styling, the Journey has strong looks that turn heads and plenty of features inside, such as multiple cubbies and rich infotainment options. However, the Journey's interior design isn't pleasing to the eye, and the materials feel subpar for the category—not just in comparison to the Escape.

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See the Ford Escape in Other Years:

2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001

Comments (2 total)

  1. By  kingoftheroad88 #1, Posted: 10/11/2009

    I don't know why but the design of this car is totally alien to me. Nevertheless some people like it

  2. By  Car Insurane Maniac #2, Posted: 11/1/2009

    Well this car's security features: a combination of seven safety technologies, including new dual-stage front air bags, side air bags, and a front passenger sensor system could be the best pick of buyers and probably it will lower the insurance rates.

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