2005 Ford Escape XLS and XLT I-4 | Review | Buying Guide
The 2005 Ford Escape is the smallest of the Ford SUV series. If you want the features of an SUV but also need a vehicle that makes sense on the commute and when trying to find a downtown parking spot, the compact SUV class starts to make a lot of sense and the Ford Escape makes a lot of sense if you are going to buy a compact SUV. The Ford Escape is offered with multiple trim levels, a couple of engine choices (the 4-cylinders reviewed here and the V6s in another review), a host of optional extras, both stand-alone and packaged, and truly remarkable class-leading standard safety equipment.
For 2005, the XLS Value, XLS and XLT I-4 have a new and improved Duratec 23 engine, an automatic transmission, the key difference between the XLS Value and regular XLS, and safety upgrades like the Safety Canopy™ system, standard Personal Safety System™ and an improved body structure to enhance crash protection. The result is a vehicle that you can trust and count on, with family, friends and a significant amount of cargo.
Under the Hood
Ford’s least-powered SUV is enjoying a powerboost this year with a slightly larger engine that offers significantly more horsepower. The new 2.3-liter Duratec 23 4-cylinder engine develops 153 hp and 152 lb-ft of torque over last year’s 2-liter that only had 127hp under the hood. Other enhancements include new engine mounts and use of the sophisticated Black Oak powertrain management computer, resulting in a smoother idle and more responsive throttle response. Mated to this engine is a 5-speed manual transmission or, new for 2005, an automatic transmission.
These changes equate to a base 2005 Escape with a distinctly improved performance profile. The Escape uses MacPherson strut front suspension to isolate road forces, with an independent rear suspension for a smooth ride.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
The four-door Escape seats a total of five passengers. The extensive 2005 model changes included a redesigned interior that features a flow-through console and floor-mounted shifter, new gauges, more storage spaces and upgraded seat cushions and fabrics. The Escape has also seen improvements to the sound baffling, resulting in a quieter and more luxurious ride. Major engineering efforts to quiet the interior include new sound-absorbing panels and tighter sealing measures to reduce cabin noise.
The XLT trim adds to the XLS basics with standard cruise control, 6-way power driver seat, a roof rack and fog lights, among other extras. The XLS Blast package, geared to the Escape’s target “young-at-heart” buyers, includes selected XLT features, such as an in-dash 6-CD changer and 16-inch aluminum wheels.
While many of the Escape’s options deals are reserved for upper level trims, there are still a few to be had with the XLS half of the family. One package is titled simply the Convenience Group. It includes cruise control, floormats and a perimeter alarm system. Other options are offered as stand-alone items.
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Ford Escape XLS and XLT I-4 Buying Resources...
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• Ford Escape 4WD XLT 3.0L
• Ford Escape 4WD XLT Sport |
