– by Julian Sale –
Every now and then a carmaker has to refresh their lineup. Car designs go stale, as do their powertrains. It used to happen on four or five year cycles, but not anymore. Lately, you have probably noticed manufacturers releasing new models and re-vamping existing models at an astounding pace.
I like to think I know cars, and when I’m driving with friends, we all comment on what’s on the road. But with so many new cars on the road, sometimes I have to do a double take. Last week, my son Josh and co-worker Cam debated whether we had just seen a Lotus Evora, or an Alfa Romeo 4C Coupe. Turns out it was the 4C. Point being, vehicles are changing – fast.
Switching gears, I have never loved the Ford Escape. It’s always been an “also ran”, a good, yet astonishingly boring vehicle: until 2013, when Ford actually designed a great car. The Small SUV segment is growing at an incredible pace, with the introduction of brand new and warmed-over models such as BMW X1, the NEW Toyota RAV4, Range Rover Evoque, the NEW Honda CRV, Mazda CX-2, Porsche Macan, and others.
Back to the Ford … I have had one to drive for the last week, and put it to work on a quick family trip with my wife and three kids. I was more than pleasantly surprised with the completely re-designed Escape. It’s a real breath of fresh air to see a modern, useful, and fun package put together by Ford. Why? Because I’m used to their old interiors. It was time. My favourite part of the car? The infotainment system. It’s slick-as-can-be. “LOADED with features” is the only way to say it. Microsoft’s involvement is clear, as the car’s display really is a computer. But to be good, it has to be easy to use, and though it takes some learning, the system is so good that I wish I could find it in more expensive cars.
There are a hundred reasons to love a loaded Escape. But to know for yourself, visit your local dealer and drive something new.
Until next month, Julian Sale.
