What are you thinking about the new Escape? It looks like the European Kuga. I dont like it, i like the old one much better, like the old Explorer

 

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...13-escape.html

 

I like it....Ford I guess is trying to get away from the boxy look of the SUV...

 

We just traded our 2009 limited for a 2012 limited because my wife wanted one before the change. I think it looks like a smaller Edge, My wife thinks it looks like a Rav 4

 

I am trying to figure this one out. The Escape platform is supposedly the best selling SUV in its class. All the others look as if they were made of something that melted a bit, and then solidified. So, the sales leader decides it has to look like THEM? The second-place and lower vehicles? How does it make sense to copy the ones that you are beating in the sales race? I don't get it, but then again, maybe they see trends of growth and decline that I don't know about. I thought it was a nice design when it came out, and haven't changed my mind since. Not too thrilled with the new 'swoopy' model.
tom

 

My first reaction was Rav4 as well... One reason we bought the 12. It just has a little more muscular look.

 

One reason for the design change is for better aerodynamics to improve mileage. Ford needed a new platform for the Escape anyway as the existing chassis is over a decade old. While I also find the existing boxy design very useable I am looking forward to checking out the new model.

 

In regards to Ford changing the look, I think we should trust in their ability to predict market reactions. If the current model is the market leader, that probably means they made strong predictions several years ago. Who's to say that 4 years from now this body style won't have done even better? Given Ford's recent track record in sales and market share, I would say that they probably thought this one out very carefully.

 

Too young to remember the Edsel?
I'm not.
It was a "*sure** thing. It had been market-studied beyond any other product launch to date.
We shall see.

tom

 

I think the new model will be a hit! As you'll notice, no more V-6. 3 models are powered by an Ecoboost engine which means they had to open the front end for the turbo piping and intercooler and the lower model still uses the 2.5L I-4.

The new models will incorporate all the new technologies that Ford has implemented throughout the rest of the re-designed line-up. These cars are going to fly off the shelves for sure.

 

I agree. Ford has definitely had it's share of flops w/ redesigns. Can you say Mustang II?

 

I understand the need for increased fuel economy so Ford can meet the greatly-increased standards in the near future. However, it is an SUV. If it comes off as just another swoopy CAR, with reduced usable people and storage space as compared to the existing design, then to me it will be a failure, and I would not buy one... not matter what eco-boost engine it has or what electronic doo-dads. FIRST, it needs to fit the use.

I hope they don't do what GM did to the Saturn VUE. The Saturn VUE sold real well around here. When they came out with the Vue Version 2.0, it was awful. Swoopy, no storage space, no people space for anyone other than mini-people. My head was at the side glass and almost touching the roof/windshield edge. I couldn't get my foot on the accelerator comfortably, and my leg was tight against the console. Worthless. I think they sold TWO of them total, I saw ONE on the road. This all occurred well before any talk of Saturn being dropped.

I wasn't able to make it to the Auto Show this spring. Did anyone go and see the Ford exhibit? Did they have a 2013 Escape there? Only on a turntable and keeping people away while someone extolled the wonderfulness of it?

I value the opinion and observations the most of someone who has a vehicle in the small SUV segment, and isn't a family of "little people"

 

Not a fan of the 2013 design. I perfer the older boxy style myself.

 

They did have one at the Auto show that was locked up.We had a 2013 Escape at work I think it looks and shares parts with the 2012 Focus.Still looking at the new Escape from the front I like it from the rear its so so so far in my opinion.Its hard to tell with the camo paint job.

 

We saw one at the Ford display at the Daytona 500 in February. Very nice interior and overall a nice looking vehicle. If they ever make it to the dealer lots, I will in the market for one.