From a company of "bold" moves, we expected a bit more from the redesigned 2008 Escape. The styling is pleasant enough, holding onto the traditional Escape shape and cues while blending in updates that suck in new life, the interior looks to be comfortable and ergonomically well designed, the additions of a touch-screen navigation system and iPod jack are welcome, and the choices of power and drivetrains will continue to attract a variety of shoppers. But we question the wisdom of carrying over an aging 200-horsepower V6 when competitors are working on 250+ horses, and wonder what a truly bold redesign of the Escape might've offered.

Photos courtesy of Ron Perry and Ford