The Ford Escape is a compact 4-door SUV that joined the Ford lineup in 2001. For 2008, the Escape compact receives some styling changes, inside and out, but retains the same drivetrain. With its makeover, it now resembles its rugged siblings, the Ford Explorer and Ford Expedition. The 2008 Ford Escape comes in three trim levels: XLS, XLT and Limited. The XLS comes with air-conditioning, keyless entry, full power accessories, a CD player and an auxiliary input jack.

A 2.3-liter 153 hp engine, powers all trims except the Limited, which gets a 3.0-liter V6 that makes 200 hp and 193 lb-ft of torque. The V6 is optional on the XLT trim. The 2.3 is teamed with a five-speed manual (XLS) or a four-speed automatic; the V6 comes only with the automatic. Towing capacity is estimated at 1,000 pounds, as against a V-6 Ford Escape which can tow up to 3,500 pounds. A new electric power-steering system reduces the load of conventional hydraulic assist, thus improving fuel economy.

The Ford Escape features a bolder, rugged design, high beltline, raised hood and a new front fascia; headlights sweep up toward the front corners of the vehicle to short side marker lights. Roof pillars are blacked out; taillights have a clear band that wraps around the rear corners. Impressive build quality is visible in the Ford Escape's cabin and Piano black accents lend an upscale ambience to well appointed accommodations. Front seats are well bolstered and comfortable; the revised dashboard has ' top of dash' display, an improved center console, Electric Power Assisted Steering system, and blue gauge backlighting.

The Ford Escape is equipped with front-impact airbags, front passenger side-impact airbags, curtain style head-protection airbags for all outboard seats, rollover protection system with roll stability control, dynamic stability control, four-channel anti-lock brakes (ABS) and a tire-pressure monitor.