The instrument panel houses audio and climate controls, a standard MP3/iPod audio jack, and controls for the available heated seats and in-dash navigation system.Įscape's interior also features the first use of Ford's new, signature Ice Blue interior lighting. Rather than the traditional 'brick' design for the radio and temperature controls, Escape features dials and buttons that 'poke-through' the center console. This simple, efficient design puts much of the vehicle's information in one place at the top of the dashboard, making it easier to reference when driving.Īlso improving ease-of-use is the clean, uncluttered center console. InterfaceFABRIC estimates that Ford's use of post-industrial materials, rather than virgin fibers, could conserve an estimated 600,000 gallons of water, an estimated 1.8 million pounds of carbon dioxide equivalents, and the equivalent of more than 7 million kilowatt hours of electricity annually.Įscape also showcases Ford's first use of a 'top of dash' display positioned at eye level on the dashboard, which shows ambient temperature, radio functions and climate-control readouts. automotive application of seating surfaces made from 100 percent post-industrial materials, supplied by InterfaceFABRIC, Inc. The 2008 Escape is believed to be the first U.S.

The new headlights bracket the dramatic new grille. The new front fascia has headlamps that sweep up toward the front corners of the vehicle to short side marker lamps. To integrate the higher beltline, the hood has also been raised and now features a unique 'reverse crease' design that draws the eye to the detailed surface. The high beltline is further emphasized by the new blacked-out B-pillars, integrated running boards, available 17-inch wheels, and the deletion of the original Escape's molded-in color fascias and lower bodyside molding. Then, we sculpted the surfaces for a more Ford Tough Truck appearance, that now matches Escape's capabilities.'

'We raised the beltline to give the profile a strong, modern proportion of sheetmetal to glass. 'The goal from the beginning was to make Escape look even stronger and tougher than the original,' says Doyle Letson, chief designer for the 2008 Escape. Six years later, Escape remains the sales leader of the small-utility segment, a remarkable feat considering the segment has almost doubled, from 800,000 sales in 2000 to a projected 1.5 million in 2006. More than one million Escapes have been sold since its introduction as a 2001 model - more than any other small utility vehicle or crossover of any size. The combination of traditional SUV capability and crossover construction made the original Escape an instant success. 'The new Escape offers a more refined ride, go-anywhere capability, impressive fuel economy, up to 3,500 pounds of towing, and a more comfortable interior that is quieter and more versatile.' 'The 2008 Escape offers the capability and styling of a traditional SUV with the benefits of crossover construction - building on the successful formula that has made the Escape America's favorite small utility vehicle for six years,' says Cisco Codina, group vice president, North America Marketing, Sales and Service. In addition, chassis refinements deliver impressive fuel economy and agile driving dynamics that belie the Escape's rugged exterior. The all-new interior resets the bar for small utility vehicles, with more upscale appointments, new innovative storage options, and improved comfort and quietness. Escape now makes a powerful statement with a bolder, rugged exterior design that bears a stronger family resemblance to the Ford Explorer and Ford Expedition.

The Ford Escape, America's best-selling compact utility vehicle, has a completely new look inside and out for 2008.

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