The 2001 Escape is the first year of this vehicle, but Ford got it pretty right on the first try. If you want a small, decently quick small SUV, then get this one

The vehicle was reliable and had plenty of power for its size. It also had all-wheel drive, which was completely automatic and independent of the control of the driver. It also had plenty of ground clearance in case vehicle was taken off roads. Controls were logically laid out and heat/AC worked very well. The vehicle's seating was somewhat cramped, especially for larger people, and it was not an ideal vehicle for driving long distances as far as comfort goes. Reliability has been very good so far.