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Models and Pricing

Ford offers the 2009 Escape in a wide variety of trim levels and configurations to satisfy a wide swath of potential buyers. For those who like the look and functionality of a small, traditional SUV, there’s the XLS, which provides the Escape’s utility backed by a four-cylinder engine, a five-speed manual transmission, and a base price of just $20,410. With that come some surprising standard features, such as side-curtain airbags, stability control, cruise control, keyless entry, an auxiliary audio jack, and 16-inch alloy wheels. The XLS even includes antilock brakes, though the front discs are offset by rear drums. To get your XLS with four-wheel-drive, you’ll need to select the optional six-speed automatic transmission.

Adding a bit more content to the mix is the Escape XLT, which in addition to an optional 240-horsepower V-6 boasts a standard six-way power driver’s seat, automatic headlights, six months of complimentary Sirius satellite radio service, and a fancy keyless entry keypad. If that’s still doesn’t quite measure up, you might want to consider the Limited version. That top-of-the-line Ford Escape tacks on bright alloy wheels, a six-disc CD changer, SYNC, leather upholstery, and additional body-color and chrome exterior accents. When equipped with the V-6 and four-wheel drive, the Limited carries a sticker price of $27,640.

Based on the XLT and priced from $29,000 is the 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid. Promising up to 34 mpg on the highway in front-wheel-drive guise, this gas/electric SUV is distinguished not only by its powertrain but also by unique 16-inch alloy wheels, a 110-volt power outlet in the front center console, and a dual-zone climate control system.

With gas prices continuing to rise, the Escape Hybrid should remain a popular choice; otherwise, the XLT is the trim most will zero in on. Buyers focused on fuel economy can select a four-cylinder model, hot rodders interested in power can opt for the V-6, and shoppers of all mindsets will likely see lots to like on the options list – leather upholstery, SYNC, a power moonroof, a 320-watt sound system, and more. But for the technophiles out there, the voice-activated navigation system, available on the Escape Limited, will be hard to pass up with its Travel Link feature that offers current weather reports and gas prices, as well as the 10-gig hard drive that stores uploaded photos and more.