If change is good, a total redesign should be even better in the automotive world.
In the case of Ford's Escape compact crossover, a complete makeover has transformed a competent crossover into something magnificent.
Gone is the boxy yesterday shape of the old Escape. In its place is a sleek and sexy aerodynamic design with a resemblance to the redesigned Focus.
Riding on a wheelbase 2.8 inches longer than the old Escape with a total length increase of 3.4 inches, the 2013 Escape is also 1.3 inches wider.
And while the interior doesn't look or feel any bigger than the old model, the Escape's dimensions are still generous for its class, with 34.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear split folding bench seat and 67.8 cubic feet with that bench folded.
Legroom in the back row for three adult-sized passengers - who will sit comfortably there - is a generous 36.8 inches with plenty of space to slide feet under the front seats.
While the exterior looks sporty, the interior pays homage to modern technology and environmental awareness. Many recycled materials are used inside, including the carpet, which is made of fibres from recycled plastic bottles. Seat cushions and head restraints use polyurethane foam made from the oils of plant seeds such as soybeans.
Environmental awareness is also showcased outside the Escape, which Ford says is 10 per cent more aerodynamic than before. The new Escape employs active grille shutters in some models that reduce drag "caused by air travelling through the radiator" when closed, Ford says.
Fuel economy has been given a boost by the employment of two new turbocharged EcoBoost engines, in addition to a 2.5-litre, 168-horsepower, inline four that is available only in the base model.
The first EcoBoost is a 1.6-litre engine cranking out 173 hp on regular fuel and 178 hp on premium gas. The other EcoBoost is a 2.0-litre powerplant generating 231 hp on regular gas and 240 hp on premium.
All engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
The 1.6 is the engine in the Escape SE tester.
The SE is one of four available Escape models and provides a perfect balance of luxury and economy. Standard features include heated cloth driver and front passenger seats, 17-inch alloy wheels, SYNC voice-activated communications and entertainment system, a six-speaker sound system with Sirius Satellite radio, fog lamps and a 110-volt power outlet.
The tester includes an optional equipment package that includes dual electronic climate control, black side rails and roof rack crossbars, a tonneau cover and cargo-management system. Price is a mere $31,949.
Standard features on this white unit include a tilt/telescoping steering wheel with redundant audio controls and speed-sensitive volume control, remote keyless entry, tire pressure monitoring system, compass, four-wheel antilock disc brakes, traction control and stability control.
The gauge and instrument layout is modern, with a 4.2-inch LCD display providing a variety of useful information including average fuel economy, which can be accessed quickly from the steering wheel.
It also has an 8.2-inch LCD touch screen that can be used to change radio stations or do other chores. SYNC is user-friendly and intuitive with a short learning curve.
The tester also had MyKey, which lets the owner program separate keys for other drivers that will enforce limits on functions including speed and volume - perfect for keeping young drivers on a short leash.
For drivers who have concerns about a smallish 1.6-litre engine, trust me when I say this EcoBoost is all the motor the Escape needs.
With 184 lb.-ft. of torque at foot, the Escape romps from a start. At cruising speeds, the Escape is quiet and serene, with the engine clearly not under any stress. In passing situations, the Escape pulls like it was powered by a V-8.
The seating position in the Escape - in fact, the driver's seat, for that matter - is second to none, with a good view and easy reach of all controls. The seats are made for all-day comfort and with five settings, the seat heaters will take a bite out of the coldest winter day.
Frisky on the highway, exceptionally maneouvrable around town, the new Escape is a crossover that is going to attract legions of new fans.
For those who want stuff like a hands-free power liftgate, accessible by putting a foot under the rear bumper, more expensive Escapes are also available.
Features such as blind-spot monitoring and active park assist, which backs up the Escape for the driver, certainly have value and will attract shoppers. A cross-traffic alert lets drivers know about nearby traffic when backing out of a parking spot, handy for the mall.
Buyers who appreciate quality sound can also choose in some models a 10-speaker Sony audio system that cranks out 355 watts.
Regardless of the model, the Escape offers buyers a fun, spacious and accommodating crossover for adventures near and far.
