I was advised that the Escape had a problem with cold start during extreme winter condition. Not sure if they've rectified it with the new model.
I've driven a 2003 Escape Limited as a courtesy car early this year and I've found it to be very comfortable. It had good acceleration ... for an SUV. My wife liked it that she is trying to convince me to trade the Mustang for one as well as trying to get the Escape whenever we need a courtesy car.
