By David Finkelstein

The Ford Escape has been a solid contender in the midsize crossover utility market, which is being strongly considered by shoppers in ever increasing numbers from coast-to-coast. I recently had the opportunity to test drive the flagship 2017 Titanium, top-of-the line version carrying a price of $34,875 including destination charges.

It also included some special equipment group options consisting of added technologies, enhanced parking assist, full panorama overhead vista roof, adaptive cruise control plus navigation.

If we step back and focus for a moment on the base version of Escape, it has a starting price point of $23,600. The crossover is offered with a choice of three trim levels (S, SE & Titanium) as well as with three unique engines. The standard power plant is the reliable 2.5-liter rated at 168-horsepower. If we think back years ago, many new vehicles right from the showroom came with horsepower output ratings of around 100 or less, therefore 168 for the entry Escape is quite notable in my opinion.



It has a conventional multi port fuel injection set-up and operates just fine on regular grade gasoline. The EPA numbers show 21 mpg city/28 mpg highway and 24 combined.

Next in the pecking order is their 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine. It develops 179 horsepower and it, too, operates nicely on regular grade gasoline with fuel consumption numbers of 23 mpg city, 30 mpg highway and 26 combined with the front-wheel-drive powertrain chassis. From there, Fiord offers its premier 2.0-liter twin-scroll EcoBoost engine with 245 horsepower.

With a front-wheel-drive set up, the EPA numbers show 22 city/29 highway and 25 combined. The factory suggests that it operates best on the higher grade octane fuel. All of these engines are four cylinder designs with duel overhead cam cylinder heads. The 1.5 and 2.0-liter use high pressure direct fuel injection and come standard with automatic start/stop fuel savings technology.

Of course, if the majority of your driving is on the highway the start/stop feature wouldn't 't be as beneficial. On the other hand, if you do a lot of “city/in-town type driving” this advancement is very much welcomed. As expected, the miles per gallon numbers will be somewhat less, with the four-wheel-drive versions. Four-wheel-drive is only available if you choose the 1.5 and 2.0-liter powerplants. All engines are matched both mechanically and electronically with a six-speed automatic transmission.

I did discover, however, that the suspension is a bit rigid or stiff during my road test. Some motorist may like a more softer ride.

Escape went through major changes both with the outer appearance and interior a little over a year ago. The vehicle's footprint is distinctive with its modern design flair and large front window glass. The looks really set it in a somewhat timeless class and help make Escape easy on the eyes. Its appearance really sets it far apart from the previous generation. The newly, re engineered front and rear help channel Escape's capable and commanding stance.

Also new and available for '17 is Ford's SYNC 3 technology with user friendly advances such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. SYNC Connect-equipped Escape models will allow owners to use FordPass to start, lock, unlock and locate their vehicle. SYNC Connect is available as part of the Technology Package on SE trims and is standard on Titanium models.

It's also offered with driver-assist technologies which include adaptive cruise control, enhanced active park assist and a lane-keeping system. The enhanced five passenger interior features a redesigned center console assembly with more interior storage and cargo capacity than the previous model and easier access to a lighted USB port and power outlet.

If you choose the on SE or Titanium models, a Sport Appearance Package is also offered. It includes 19-inch Ebony Black premium painted aluminum wheels, gloss black painted upper grille and side vents, and black headlamp and taillamp bezels. Under the heading of safety, Ford raised the bar so the vehicle achieves a high rating when crash tested under laboratory controlled conditions.

Look for welcomed breakthroughs such as AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control and Safety Canopy, plus side air-curtain technology (found on the first and second rows)as well as SOS Post-Crash Alert System and Ford's MyKey programmable ignition key fob.

The "automatic open" rear cargo hatch with the key fob placed within your pocket or purse worked with ease. Keep in mind, some of these technology extras only operate when linked with your personal iPhone or similar device. Rear cargo capacity behind the second row seats come out to be 34 cu. ft. and the vehicles maximum towing capabilities (when properly equipped) come out to be around 3,500 pounds.

The 2017 Louisville, Kentucky, manufactured Ford Escape shares the stage with the Hyundai Tucson, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Kia Sportage, Nissan Rogue, Jeep Cherokee, Mazda CX-5 and others, in a crowded-yet-popular automotive category.