The 2004 Ford Escape is all about driving fun. The expression
can mean a lot of things (if you let your imagination go
a little), but to Ford it means providing a sporty, responsive
ride and a fresh, stylish package.
The 2004 Ford Escape is a compact sport utility vehicle
that offers two engines and a number of options deals that
let you spice up the content. Though in the compact class,
the Escape has a functional design that maximizes every
inch of its cabin.
Available Models
The XLS half of the 2004 Ford Escape lineup is broken down
into two sub-trims: XLS Value and XLS. Escape XLT and Limited
are covered in a separate review.
Interior Features
Though not a luxury vehicle, the 2004 Ford Escape is designed
for comfort and, perhaps above all else, convenience. Passenger
roominess and cargo flexibility are the two key areas focused
on. Escape has four doors and a rear lift-gate with flip-up
glass for access to the cargo area. The cargo area, with
the seats up, offers 33 cubic feet of storage space.
The interior design for 2004 is clean and uncluttered.
Audio and climate controls are located in the center of
the instrument panel, with the controls logically arranged.
For listening pleasure, an in-dash AM/FM stereo with single
CD player is standard on the XLS. Additional items can be
had as stand-alone options, or as part of larger group packages.
Exterior Features
The 2004 Ford Escape just looks sporty, like it wants to
take off at any moment. Its low step-in height and wide
door openings allow easy access for all manner of passenger.
Performance
The engine under the hood of the XLS Value model isn't supercharged
for excessive power, but it does get you up to speed. It
is a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder model with 127 horsepower
at 5400 rpm and 135 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm. The XLS
Value uses 5-speed manual transmission and is a front-wheel
drive vehicle.
Midlevel XLS models have a 3.0-liter V6 with 201 horsepower
at 5900 rpm and 196 lb-ft of torque at 4700 rpm. They use
4-speed automatic transmission. XLS Escapes also offer a
full-time four-wheel drive system that lets the driver choose
two different settings: 4x4 Auto or 4x4 ON.
The Escape's unibody design lets it handle like a sedan
would. MacPherson strut front suspension helps isolate road
forces, while the independent rear suspension provides a
smooth ride.
Safety and Security
Dual front airbags and automatic-off headlights are standard.
Front side airbags and antilock brakes are optional.
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Car Reviews
2004
Ford Escape XLT and Limited Model - Review
2004
Ford Escape - Price Quote
New
Escape Limited Series offers added levels of comfort
for value-conscious customers
