New Vehicle Review

By: Kristi Bannen

I enjoyed test-driving the new 2001 Ford Escape XLT.  This SUV has been described as a “mini-SUV“ or a “car-based sport-utility”.  It’s a fairly good and accurate description too.  It rides a lot like a car yet with the sturdiness of a true SUV – a comfortable ride without the feeling of driving a bigger, bulkier vehicle.

Although the Ford Escape was introduced in late summer of 2000, I really hadn’t heard too much about it nor was I really familiar with it.  I do know there were a few recalls that plagued its debut, yet it seems Ford has worked to manage those and as with many new introductions, some recalls just happen.  

The Ford Escape XLT is the step up from its sister - the Escape XLS.  Our test vehicle, the XLT, had the optional 3.0-liter, Duratec V-6 engine – the same engine is also in the Ford Taurus LX.  I could definitely feel the power as I accelerated and it had ample spunk for a “mini-SUV”.  It handled well in good driving conditions as well as in rain and/or snow.  For the most part the ride was quiet. 

If I wanted to go off road, I would have been all set there too. The Escape XLT had the Control Trac II 4WD (four wheel drive) System plus a trailer towing package to haul up to 3,500 pounds.  

I liked how “open” and bright the Ford Escape appeared from the inside too.  The view through the front, side and rear windows was not obstructed and the windows allowed a lot of light in.  One option I would add is the power moonroof with a shade. 

The Ford Escape XLT seats five people very comfortably and is quite roomy in the rear seating area.   The back seat could fold totally flat or provide a 60/40-split seat.   There’s plenty of storage space in the rear cargo area and the design of the back window and tailgate handles made it very easy and convenient to access.   Cargo nets were provided to secure items, plus a retractable cover could be used to hide your goods. 

The center console/armrest was unusually larger than most vehicles I’ve driven and I liked it.  It could hold/hide a lot of miscellaneous items that usually would be left out on the seat or crammed into the other smaller compartments within the vehicle. 

The sports bucket seats were comfortable to sit in yet I would have upgraded and added the “Leather Comfort Group” option which included: leather seats; a 6-way power driver’s seat; deluxe overhead console; front door map pockets; leather wrapped steering wheel and under front passenger seat storage.  Otherwise, the Ford Escape XLT comes standard with power windows, locks and mirrors but the seats are adjusted manually.

The control panel was easy to view especially behind the steering wheel with the white-faced instruments against the dark background.  Air conditioning and speed control are both standard on the Ford Escape. 

I thought the Ford Escape XLT was a nice looking vehicle with sporty styling.  The color, chrome yellow clearcoat (a very BRIGHT yellow), definitely made it stand out.  Plus, the front fog lamps, roof rack with two crossbars, side step bars and the black exterior trim and accents against that golden yellow added to its sporty appeal.                

As for safety, dual front airbags are included (side air bags are optional), plus four-wheel antilock brakes, solar tinted glass, illuminating entry and side intrusion door beams.  Warranties cover bumper to bumper for 36 months or 36,000 miles (whichever comes first) plus 24-hour roadside assistance. 

What should you compare the Ford Escape XLT to??  Try looking at the Toyota RAV4, Mazda Tribute, Honda CR-V or the Subaru Forester.

Overall, out of a four tire rating, with four being the very best, I give the 2001 Ford Escape three tires and a spare for an above average rating.  It’s competitively priced ranging from $18,000-$25,000, great for hauling stuff, comfortable to ride in and easy to handle.  

Kristi’s Fun Fact:

The Ford Escape is built in and shipped from Kansas City.