2008 Ford Escape Limited 3.0 from North America
Summary:
Very happy overall, just suggest an extended warranty
Faults:
Transmission condenser leaking within first 4 months. They replaced it, now it is leaking again, but not covered under warranty.
Uneven front tire wear.
General Comments:
Spouse is very small (4 ft 8) and very few cars fit her. This one with electric seat fits fine. Very glad we waited for 2008 to come out, much roomier inside than the previous year model.
Had to put it in the shop twice for the same issue, first transmission condenser leaked 4 months in. Second one started leaking recently, but the dealer said it wasn't covered because the replacement part only has 12 month coverage. If I had an extended warranty it would have been. Called Ford, they concur. $800 dollar repair just before Christmas.
Size is decent, visibility is good. I am so glad I didn't get the 4 banger, we still get 24 mpg with the V6 and when we have to merge, it does great. Handles good sized hills without having to downshift. Would be confident to tow a small trailer or boat with it.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 20th December, 2010
2nd Jun 2008, 10:44
We test drove the V-6 Escape (as well as about a dozen other SUV's) before buying our GMC Envoy. I liked the Escape, and especially the sporty handling and smaller size. My wife felt it was underpowered (especially compared to the 275hp Envoy) and rough riding. Since it was to be her car, I gave in and let her get the Envoy.
Though we have been very happy with the Envoy, I feel the Escape is a great little SUV and Ford reliability has never been an issue with us. We've put over 200,000 miles on several and over 300,000 on one with basically just routine maintenance.
I'm surprised to hear that you get 26mpg highway, as neither of our V-6 Explorers got over 19 highway. Thanks for the review, and keep us updated as there may yet be an Escape in our future.