I love the vehicle, it's great in all weather conditions. It's not so great on gas, I was told it gets roughly 20 mpg and the most I've got it to get is 13. Lots of electrical problems which apparently is an issue with most escapes between 2001 and 2002. Great family car, I'm 6'3 and 330 pounds with minor back issues and I fit nicely and can slide in and out of the car with ease, my daughter loves the spaciousness of it and my wife takes full advantage of the storage capacity. It's great at towing and hauling, not much trunk space but makes up for it with its towing ability. No interior rattles, and the car hasn't had many issues other than the electrical problems.

Had a 2001 Ford Escape as my first car, it was small yet very safe for a young driver. This Escape has not only saved me money in fuel mileage it is fun to drive. I have no doubt this smaller version of the Explorer will be the car for me from here on out. The Ford Escape also doesn't offer more than five seats, which means if your family is looking to push past that level of accommodations then a minivan is probably a safer bet. Overall was a very great, safe care that I would happily put another sixteen year old in.