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2009 Ford Escape |
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Price Range $20,100 to $27,330 |
suitable for:
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17 to 22 |
24 to 28 |
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Test Drove
reviewed by Lori Hindman
5/21/08
MotherProof.com Writer Escapes to ‘Idol’ With Ford
I have the Best. Job. Ever. Yesterday, my work schedule included the following: Drive brand-new Ford Escape Hybrid through ritzy Los Angeles suburbs. Drive brand-new Ford Escape V-6 through Malibu. Have lunch on the beach in, yes, Malibu. Head over to the “American Idol” finals. Scream my head off for my favorite David. Gloat about it online. Man, I’m tired.
Ford knows how to dazzle a girl, all right. The all-new 2009 Escapes are faster (get through errands quicker), quieter (easier to chat with the kiddos in back) and more fuel-efficient (easier on the family budget) than last year. Ford tweaked the styling to make the Escape more aerodynamic, added 16-inch low-rolling-resistance tires and upgraded the transmission to create what Ford is calling a significant increase in efficiency. The fuel estimates for the hybrid are 34/30. The V6 is rated at 19/25 and the I4 is 21/27.
Ford also added some stability to the frame, making handling much firmer. Basically, the hybrid now feels more like a traditional gas-fueled SUV. It’s pretty fun to drive, even if you aren’t surrounded by glamour.
Less glamorous, but certainly admirable, the cloth seats are made entirely of post-industrial recycled materials, and up to 7 percent of the foam in the car is made from soybeans – yum! Oh, and bonus points to Ford for using sustainable materials. The super-amazing Sync system has been updated to include Sirius features that basically put all the utility of the internet at the command of your voice: “Take me to Nokia Theatre.”
Because, in case you missed it, Ford is a HUGE sponsor of the most-watched show in America. Yep, I’m gonna say it: This is “American Idol.” The battle of the Davids was well-fought and well-applauded (by which I mean I screamed, clapped and jumped up and down) by your faithful, intrepid reporter. And after “Idol,” I was still ready for more Escape. Best. Job. Ever.
Tune in tomorrow for who won and thoughts on the Ford music videos.
shopping around: At cars.com
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