Ford Escape 3.0 V6
Ford Escape 3.0 – Answer for the power-hungry.
The Ford Escape first launched some years ago, has established itself as one of the most attractive, and of the best handling SUV’s around. Powered by a two-litre engine, the lack of power was the major complaint from most of its users. Still, its looks and its handling saw it through and created quite a following in Malaysia. Ford Malaysia, after listening to the feedback from its users launched a 2.3 litre version a few months ago. After testing that model, we found it to be very well balanced; with the additional power the Escape a real pleasurable drive; the frequent kick down of gears every time the accelerator is floored is no longer an issue, and the ‘step-on-it-and-wait’ problem has disappeared.
Now, to make sure that most power-starved users are catered for, the 3.0 litre V6 model has been introduced by Ford Malaysia.
The Ford Escape 3.0 looks pretty much the same, other than some cosmetic changes on the inside and outside to differentiate it from the 2.3 litre model. The two-tone paint job on the outside is the most distinguishing mark of the 3.0 litre model, while the two-tone dashboard design on the inside is a carry-over from the 2.3 litre. However, driving it is a completely different story.
The Ford Escape 3.0 litre is an animal waiting to be unleashed with its strong V6 configuration. Every time the throttle is stepped on, it lunges forward like a sprinter off the starting block. It is not capable of breaking any sound barriers, but it has enough grunt to get your adrenaline pumping. The sensation you get when you put pedal to the metal is quite reminiscent of some of the more powerful sedans. At sedate speeds, it is still capable of cruising along like any other SUV. Just like any other SUV, you can drive it to the market, use it to transport the kids to school and for the occasional weekend drive to the ‘dusun’.
Tipping the scales a little under 1.6 tons, the 206ps produced by the 3.0 litre engine is capable of propelling the Escape from zero to a 100kph in 11.8 seconds (as tested), out-sprinting some medium sized cars. The 276Nm of torque peaking at 4750 rpm gives it a great mid-range and low-range pull.
The automatic gearbox is similar to the 4-speed box that is fitted to the 2.3 litre model; a 5-speed would be a better option but that would probably raise the price a substantial bit. The difference between the two gearboxes is that this particular gearbox is auto-adaptive, i.e. the gearbox ‘learns’ your driving style and adapts to it to give you optimum delivery of power. With the additional capacity the fuel consumption is naturally higher. We managed 350 kilometres on a tank of fuel, which works out to be around 27 sen per kilometre. At 130 kph, the engine is just ticking over at 3000 rpm. Gearing is approximately 43 kilometres per hour per 1000 rpm with an electronic cut-off at a top speed of 180kph.
The Escape is fitted with ventilated disc brakes on the front and drum brakes at the rear. ABS and 4 air bags are standard fittings, with an electric sunroof thrown in with the package. The Escape 3.0 litre comes shod with 16-inch rims and the suspension system is independent all round.
The Ford Escape 3.0 litre is very well behaved, in terms of handling. The ride is comfortable at normal road speeds, a little on the firm side, but not harsh. Around bends, the Escape remains, as one of the better handlers and it is a pleasure to drive. The leather seats are comfortable and capable of holding bigger sized users. Seating 4 is good, while for short journeys 5 can squeeze in.
Considering that it is a fully imported vehicle, the Ford Escape is very competitively priced. Tagged at RM156, 888.00 on the road without insurance, there is no other 3.0 litre SUV, MPV or even a sedan available at this price. For the buyer who is looking for raw power at a reasonable price, the Ford Escape 3.0 is a viable option
