The 2015 Ford Escape is a compact SUV that combines sporty handling, a comfortable interior, and a range of engine options to suit various driving preferences. Performance and Engine Options: The Escape offers three engine choices: A standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 168 horsepower. An available 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 178 horsepower. A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine generating 240 horsepower. All engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and buyers can choose between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. The Escape’s handling is notably agile for its class, offering a driving experience that feels more like a car than an SUV. Fuel Efficiency: Fuel economy varies depending on the engine and drivetrain: The base 2.5-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The 1.6-liter turbocharged engine offers up to 23 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine provides approximately 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. Interior and Features: Inside, the Escape seats five passengers and offers a cargo capacity of 34.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 67.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. Standard features include a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and Ford’s Sync voice-control system. Higher trims add amenities such as leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, and the MyFord Touch infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen. Safety: The 2015 Escape comes equipped with standard safety features like antilock brakes, stability and traction control, and a suite of airbags. It received an overall rating of four out of five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). However, it’s worth noting that the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the Escape a “Poor” rating in the small overlap front crash test. ([U.S. News Cars][7]) Conclusion: The 2015 Ford Escape stands out in the compact SUV segment for its engaging driving dynamics, versatile engine options, and a well-appointed interior. While it offers a compelling package for many buyers, those prioritizing top-tier crash test scores may want to consider this aspect when making a decision.