Enter the 2009 Ford Escape featuring increased strength, enhanced safety and new add-ons to continue this well-aging platform's ability to attract and excite purchasers far and wide. The previous year's 2.3L V4 is replaced with a 2.5L V4 that produces 171 hp. There is also an available 3.0L V6 that demonstrates a respectable 240 hp. The base trim with the 2.5L engine features a 5-speed manual transmission, while all other trims including those with the 3.0L engine utilize a 6-speed automatic tranny.

Enhanced safety features for the 2009 Escape include front, front-side and side curtain airbags; Ford's AdvanceTrac electronic stability control system featuring anti-roll technology; 4-wheel anti-lock braking and an electronic tire pressure monitoring system.

The Ford Escape has established itself as the best-selling small SUV in the United States. It rides higher and positions the driver at a superior vantage point than does it competition like the Honda CR-V. It also outperforms its class in towing capabilities being able to handle 3500 pounds with efficient ease. It's interior is surprisingly spacious, especially when considering the Escape's compact exterior design. It rides smooth and parks easy granting its drivers comfort and simplistic handling.

Every available trim, including those with the 3.0L V6 and the Escape Hybrid, rate very well in fuel efficiency when compared with other class members. Every variant of the Ford Escape is offered with your choice of either front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive. Speaking of the Hybrid, besides lower carbon emissions and higher gas milage, this gas/electric mixer drives just as smooth as the gas-only models and is very user-friendly as well.

MSRPs on these 2009 Fords begin at around $19,000 for the V4 Escape XLS 2WD and top out at around $30,000 for the V6 Escape Limited with 4WD and all the high-tech features to spoil you rotten. The Escape Hybris cost roughly $2,000 more than similarly-equipped V6 Limited trims. The Ford Escape is a very visually-appealing vehicle that shows class and style wherever it is driven. Its big-truck design standards have helped to keep it as a class leader for years and years. The 2009 model of the Ford Escape promises to be a better dollar-for-feature bargain than any previous year.

Ford customers also love to brag about the impressive amount of cargo space behind the rear seat as well as the amount available when the rear seats are folded down flat. It's an impressive view to look behind yourself as you're hauling what seemingly would take a larger vehicle to match. Although the Ford Escape is designed to seat 5 comfortably, you can always fit an extra person or two in when in a pinch.

Most small SUVs lack the options available in the 2009 Escape. Some interesting choices include the Cargo Convenience option for an additional $395 and the Audiophile Package for $695. The Cargo Convenience option grants you a retractable cargo area and very cool compartmentalized bins for storage in the rear. The Audiophile Package, as you may expect, let's you crank out the tunes from a powerful stereo system featuring 7 separate speakers with added sub-woofers all from an in-dash 6-CD changer/player. Chrome wheels, power moonroofs, leather seats and heated steering wheels will all accentuate your top-grade NAV system nicely, all optional, of course.

All in all, the 2009 Ford Escape is a small SUV with a big reputation for comfort, style, dependability, convenience and fuel efficiency. Short list this SUV if you're in the market and benefit from the Escapes established standards for durable excellence.