2002 Ford Escape

We are stationed overseas in Okinawa Japan through the AirForce. We are used to driving old foreign junkers that we picked up for about $800 or less, just to last us through our tour and also allowed us to save some money. We decided that since we are leaving Okinawa for Hawaii or Guam, it was time to buy a new car for all of our hard work and sacrifice in paying off bills. Enter the debate....
Ford Escape..... -OR- Pontiac Aztec??? Now some of you will immediately shout out, Ugghhh, NOT the Aztec! But I fell in love with the Aztec immediately. The amazing features and handling of that SRV are just so wonderful, and yes, I am one of the rare breeds that actually LOVE the styling of the Aztec. My husband on the other hand fell in love with the Escape, which I had to admit, was my first choice before spotting the Aztec. To make a long story short, we chose the Aztec.

Don't get me wrong.... I think the Escape is great vehicle. Which is why I decided to write this review after our test drive. If the Aztec is too out there for you (or if you just think it is ugly :)) Then I would definitly check out the Escape.

THE SHELL. This is a steel shell that protects the entire front end, and continues around the sides using "side intrusion door beams" (steel beams along each and every door for protection in a crash). I have to young girls who sit in carseats on the outer back seats, and this feature makes me feel all warm and cozy inside, knowing that they are protected. Throw in the dual and side airbags, and I am on cloud nine. When I found out that the Aztec had this feature also, I was sold, otherwise it would have been the Escape.

When I drove the SUV, it was SOOOOOOO smooth. NO rattles whatsoever!!! It was peaceful (my kids were not inside at the time, lol). I felt that it accelerated super fast and powerful..... but then again, I am not used to driving state of the art speed cars. Quite the opposite actually. If you are going from a Mustang, or some other sporty get up, then you may be disappointed. I sure wasn't! It cornered wonderfully. Those U-turns we all need to make from time to time would be SOO easy, as the wheel turning radius (have no idea if I am using the right terminology) seems very tight, nice sharp turns. Parking was a breeze, as again, the wheel turning radius is nice and sharp. I felt no roll at all when making quick and fast turns. It did score a 3 star rating on the roll-over resistance rating for both the 4 wheel drive and 2 wheel drive. This is the highest rating that SUV's have gotten, except for the Pontiac Aztec 4x4 (4-door)which scored a 4 out of 5 stars (the 2 wheel drive Aztec scored a 3). While there have not been any crash tests on the Ford Escape 4x2, the 4x4 has received excellent ratings... 5 stars for the tests done on the front driver side, side drivers side and rear seats side... and 4 starts for the front passenger side test. This is awesome!

On a low note.... I did feel that for the XLT model, the controls and front panels were a bit basic looking. Nothing high tech, but a small tradeoff for the superior safety you get from this SUV. Another thing that bothers me is the gas mileage which is supposedly around 19/24. But I knew this going in to an SUV. I guess if gas mileage is a big concern for you, then forget the SUV and opt for a sedan or passenger car. Another more minor detail that bothers me.... With the XLT, you get the 6 disc in dash cd changer system, but only 4 speakers!!!! It seams for such a large (larger than a car) vehicle with an upgraded sound system, they could at least throw in a few more speakers. You can get the 7 speaker system added on, but for about $600 more. Sheesh. On the Aztec, 6 speaker is standard I believe, with also some speakers in very back for tailgating usage. Some other feature that the Aztec has that I think would be nice on the Escape are as follows-
1) HUD (heads up display)- projects speed and other info onto the lower windshield so you can always see it without taking eyes off the road. Come on Ford, add that on the Escape!!!
2)Acceleration volume control (made that term up to, lol)- as your speed increases, the volume on your stereo slightly elevates, and visa versa as speed decreases.
3)Power outlets in rear of vehicle- Aztec has outlets in the rear, for use during camping, cleaning, etc. Just a nice touch.
4)Stereo controls on the steering wheel- I want that, man!

Oh, and also, the price I was quoted is from the AAFES Military car sales. If you are military, I highly suggest that you check out your AAFES dealership before considering another dealership. Great experience. The only options that I did not get with my price were 1-leather seats.... 2-the side stepping bar.... I did get the Choice XLT model, higher than the Value, and lower than Sport, but did not want Sport anyhow. :)

Thanks for reading my review, I am not a car professional, but wanted to comment on these 2 vehicles in a safety comparison. Good luck in your SUV purchase! I am also writing a review for the Aztec, so check it out if you are interested.

GOOD LUCK!!!