Overall the escape is a good, reliable vehicle. I have had mine for about 6 months now and put about 4,000 miles on it. I have found in that time the escape gets approximately 26 to 27 overall mpg. It provides a smooth ride. The best feature of the Escape is the blue tooth wireless connect. This allows a cell phone to be connected and phone calls be made through the speakers. There is also controls on the steering wheel for the radio and phone. There is plenty of leg room in the front seats, but slightly lacking in the back seat area. You are able to fit larger in the back also by simply putting down the back seats. Some negative things about the Escape also include lack of cup holders. There are two main cup holder in the console. There is an additional two in the driver and front passenger doors. However, they will hold nothing bigger than a can of soda. Anyone sitting in the back seating area is stuck holding their drink. My biggest complaint is lack of storage. I managed to fit a few select few items around the spare tire in the back. Other than that there is no storage area. If your someone that likes to keep spare things in case of an emergency...The Escape is not a great option for you. My Escape is only front wheel drive. So far this has not been much of a problem. However, I would still recommend getting the AWD.

The build of this model of 2008 is good, wish it was a little better though. I drive this car everywhere, and it has taken the punishment of it. I have never had an issue with the car other than it can't get around in snow, at all. I was given the option to have it in 4X4, and I wish I took it. Two wheel drive is good if you are not in area that has a bad winter weather. The rear window on the hatch could be better, as well. If it gets too dirty on the seal, it will cause the window to leak. If cleaned very well this is not an issue. Seats are leather and holds up to kids and their messes very well. Radio works great and never have had an issue. Fuel economy is good with this car getting 22 MPG average. Trunk space is great. I have had a lot of stuff in the back and never really had an issue with the size. The interior could have had a little more space. When you have a 6'4" family member in there, there is not much room for anyone else. So the car is more geared to your average person. All in all, it is a good vehicle. It just needs a few tweaks .