Easy to live with

No doubt, the Escape has been good for Ford's bank account. Since its launch in 2001, the American automaker has sold quite a few. We can't even go to the neighbourhood convenience store without one crossing our path.

The Escape is a very popular vehicle and is very present on our roads.

So, how do you make a winning formula even better? And at the same time, how do you keep your product competitive in a segment that's ever-improving? One thing's for sure is that the foundation must be left untouched.

So, the 2008 Escape is more an evolution than a revolution. Is that enough?

Robust looks
The new Escape gets sheetmetal that is now more aerodynamic and tough-looking. The angular chromed grille reminds us of other Ford trucks. The designers decided to pull off the plastic lower-body cladding to give the SUV a more svelte appearance. It's a success, in my opinion.

Except for the Hybrid model, the Escape has three trim levels, and the XLT is the mid-level. It's recognizable from the base XLS by its alloy wheels and fog lamps. The Limited stands out with its body-color mirrors and door handles, its chrome front bumper cap and polished wheels.

In general, I like the freshened look of the Escape. However, I don't understand why the satellite radio antenna is located on the roof right above the windshield, but off-center; in the pictures, this thingamabob looks like an ugly wart.

Spacious interior
Inside the Escape, we get a spacious and comfortable cockpit, and the driving position is more than appreciable. The mix of colours is a little peculiar; charcoal and brick red, with silver-painted trim. As such, it's not that bad, but I was expecting colors that better match the beige exterior paint job.

Colour matching is not always right.