2006 Ford Escape New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2006 Ford Escape?
Just in time to combat rising fuel prices, the 2006 Ford Escape gets a new standard four-cylinder engine that's 20-percent more powerful than before and which gets 10-percent better fuel economy than the V6 model. The new four-cylinder comes with a manual transmission on the XLS and with a four-speed automatic on the XLT, and is available on both front-drive and four-wheel-drive models. Ford kills the XLT No Boundaries package this year, drops the XLS Blast package, adds a V6 badge to the tailgate on higher-horsepower models, and replaces Gold Ash metallic paint with Titanium Green or Blazing Copper hues.

Advantages of the 2006 Ford Escape:

• Roomy and comfortable interior for its size
• Good cargo carrying capacity
• Capable soft-roader
• Fun to drive

Objections to the 2006 Ford Escape:

• Rides rougher than the competition
• Interior still lacks refinement
• Noisy when driven on the highway

Editor's Advice:
One of the most popular compact SUVs on the market, the 2005 Ford Escape is a solid value that offers great fuel economy and a Low Emissions Vehicle rating, a roomy interior, and 4WD models that automatically redistribute engine power when wheel slip is detected. The new Duratec 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine provides more power than its predecessor, but we prefer the added punch from the optional 3.0-liter V6. The 2006 Ford Escape also fits well with safety-minded families, with standard dual-stage airbags for the driver and front passenger, and an optional side impact Safety Canopy system.