With no notable changes, the Escape carries over with a choice of three engines and two drive systems. The entry-level S trim is the only one to use a decade-old 2.5L four-cylinder engine that makes 168 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque. Better performance comes in the form of 1.5L and 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinders that make 179 hp/177 lb-ft and 245 hp/275 lb-ft, respectively.

S trim comes in FWD only; SE and SEL start as front-drivers and can be optioned to AWD with either turbo engine; and the Titanium comes exclusively with the 2.0L and AWD.

The Escape is a smooth performer and boasts sharper handling than most of its competitors thanks to a design that originated with Ford's European engineers, but the downside is an interior that's snug compared to the CR-V and RAV4. And if you plan on using the back seat a lot, keep in mind the thinly-padded rear bench is low to the floor and doesn't offer a lot of under-thigh support.

S trim comes with a relatively light list of standard kit. There's air conditioning, a height-adjustable driver's seat, six-speaker sound system with the Sync infotainment system, power windows, automatic headlights, 17-inch steel wheels with covers and keyless entry.

SE adds a 10-way power driver's seat, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, satellite radio, fog lights, chrome exterior trim, keyless entry keypad and 17-inch aluminum wheels.

SEL brings leather-trimmed seating, power tailgate, leather-trimmed steering wheel and a backup sensing system.