USA Today: New Ford Escape gets curvier, more fuel stingy

Nov 16, 2011
New Ford Escape gets curvier, more fuel stingy

The 2013 Ford Escape sport utility vehicle brings technologies and features
By Ford, Wieck

The 2013 Ford Escape was just unveiled and it shows a dramatic styling change. Gone is the boxy, utilitarian SUV look and the new Escape becomes more curvy and Hyundai-like. Ford is also touting its fuel economy and technology.

America's Best Cars 06 Small SUV - Ford Escape

America's Best Cars
Small SUV - Ford Escape

Price: $21,215 - $27,685
Mileage: 23 City / 28 Hwy

Small SUVs are another tough category full of new entries. The Escape -- which hasn't had a major redesign in many years -- was not among the top overall scorers, said Consumer Reports' Jake Fisher.

Engines are a particular issue. The Escape's four-cylinder engine is noisy, Fisher said, and the V6 is thirstier than its competitors.

The Escape does win points though, for its overall functionality and high crash-test scores. The Hybrid also scored higher.