2012 All-New Ford Escape Joins Range As Third Global Model

The 2012 Ford Escape compact SUV has been unveiled, making it the third global model to be launched under the “One Ford” philosophy, which has so far spawned the Fiesta and the Focus. The Escape adopts the same design language as its smaller Ford siblings, looking not only more modern than before but also being nearly 10 percent more aerodynamic. The interior volume has increased despite a sleeker appearance.

Spearheaded by a claimed class-leading fuel economy and a raft of new high-tech features, the Ford Escape will be expected to maintain its best-selling position when it arrives in the US early next year. In Europe and China, the Escape will be rebadged as the Kuga, but with unique powertrains and features, before a debut in Geneva in March and the start of sales after that.

The 2012 Ford Escape boasts 11 features not offered by any rival, including a powered tailgate with motion-sensing technology that allows for hands-free opening and closing; an upgraded MyFord Touch controls' interface; active park assist that automatically steers the car into a parallel parking space; active grille shutters that close to reduce aerodynamic drag; and high-end features like a blind-spot information system, Torque Vectoring Control and Curve Control, which slows down the car if excessive cornering speeds are detected.

The base engine is an updated version of the outgoing naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol unit with 168 HP and 226 Nm, followed by Ford's turbocharged, direct-injected Ecoboost four-cylinder petrol units: a 1.6-litre with 173 HP and 240 Nm, and a 2.0-litre with 237 HP and 339 Nm. All these engines are mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox and an optional intelligent all-wheel-drive system, which delivers and subtracts torque through an electromagnetic clutch. Enjoy the 2012 Ford Escape official gallery below!