Would have it done better in this test? Because it sounds like they got a weirdly speced model here.
It's not a weirdly spec'd model... It's the way some people would option theirs. I've seen special white SE 1.5T with the blacked out wheel package driving around Ottawa. Perhaps Ford is pushing that model as it's a cash cow, but people are buying it (probably very discounted).
I commented on the trim in my bit. I highlighted that I'd option the car at $32k - $6k cheaper despite having the stronger engine. Not sure why these comments come out about something being unfair.
It's very true that the Escape would have done better if it was optioned differently, but it wouldn't have touched the podium. My guess is no better than 5th or 6th, but then it would have died in terms of value for the price (more than it already did).
The Escape is still dated, the interior is not a great design, is ergonomics lag behind, and it's "high MSRP, but we have a deal for you, our special little customer!!" it's punished in a comparison like this. It's a dumb model to price the vehicle so high when it'll never sell for that price.
I loved driving the Escape. It was one of my favorite vehicles, but it's compact and not quite as thoughtfully designed inside. From the driver's perspective only, it's one of the better options though. Not from a family's.
