Ford, has redesigned the Escape and it no longer looks, feels, acts or performs as an SUV. Granted, the previous generations were not truly SUV's, however, you weren't afraid to go over a curb with them or get dirty in them. The new generation is nothing more than a sedan with a little more ground clearance. Now, as a car, it is a nice vehicle, there is good room inside and the driver controls are mostly in good places. The rear cargo area is plenty large for a car of this class. The vehicle, I have has normal aspirated engine and it has plenty of power for the vehicle's size. Fuel mileage is very good too, I average 29-30 mpg on 95% highway and not much lower for city. All and all, I would recommend this vehicle if somebody is looking for a car, however, not a SUV