2011 Ford Escape Total Car Score Analysis

Nearing the end of its current product cycle, the 2011 Ford Escape ranks in the middle of the Compact Crossover class with regard to its Total Car Score.  
 
A redesigned Escape will follow within two model years, changing from a boxy SUV-like layout that reviewers criticize for feeling old to a more modern and sophisticated crossover design. The current model sports a platform from another time, when macho SUVs far outnumbered softer crossovers.  
 
Auto journalists find the Escape lacks refinement and handling prowess, but they give it credit for reasonable pricing, useful interior space, and available high-tech options, including Ford's voice-activated Sync system and an optional self-parking feature.  

2011 Ford Escape Model Line-Up

The 2011 Ford Escape is offered in XLS, XLT and Limited trim levels, each with front- or all-wheel drive. There is also a Hybrid version of the 2011 Escape.  
 
Standard features on the XLS, like MyKey parental controls and keyless entry, speak to the Escape's technology pedigree. Higher-grade trims can be had with Sync, automatic headlights and dual-zone climate control as either standard or optional features.  
 
The Escape is available with either s a 171-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or a 240-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 that can run on e85 ethanol. The four-cylinder is offered with a five-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic, while the V6 gets only the automatic.  
 
EPA fuel economy ratings for the four-cylinder are 23 mpg city/28 highway with the manual transmission, which only comes with front-wheel drive (FWD), 21/28 with the automatic and FWD, and 20/26 with the automatic and all-wheel drive (AWD). The V6 is rated at 19/25 with FWD and 18/23 with AWD.

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