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Used 2008 Ford Escape Consumer Reviews

4.2 out of 5 stars
238 reviews

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5 out of 5 stars

08 Escape Thoughts

nrwilliams, 08/22/2007
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I was waiting for a hybrid Escape but was not able to recieve it until maybe December which would have been 6 months. So I decided to get the 4cyl, 2wd and it has been great. The average mileage all around has been 24mpg. The noise level is also a lot less then the original model. The 4cyl is plenty of horsepower for the car considering the V6 isn't that much more.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Wow

john, 10/09/2007
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The MPG in the city are great. 26 in the city and 32 on the highway! I am glad that I did not wait for a hybrid to come in and bought a 4cyl insted!

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Great little SUV

Ron L, 06/01/2007
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I was looking for a smaller vehicle to replace my '96 Ford Windstar without giving up too much storage. The new Escape XLT fit the bill perfect. The new Escape looks tough and does a great job for what I need. I am getting about 25mpg and very pleased with the looks and performance so far. My wife who drives an Accord V6 coupe would not come near the minivan, now I can't keep her out of the Escape, which is OK, since her Honda is a sweet ride! The Escape 4cyl does just fine in this little truck, it won't set any land speed records, but it has no problem merging with traffic and cruising with the pack, while delivering over 24mpg. Overall we are very pleased with our Escape.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Solid and truck-like

hoagsmokler, 06/22/2007
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've never driven an older Escape, but I have heard wonderful things about them. I loved this the moment I sat in the driver's seat. I was concerned about the gas mileage on the V6 AWD, but it's not too horrible. I wonder why they still have this old 4 speed transmission? That is one of the few downfalls. I have all the goodies, including XM and sunroof, but the standard stereo is absolutely awful! I knew Ford's stereos were always poor, but they should realize that many people make a huge buying decision in the stereo. I went from a newer VDub, so maybe I am just being a snob on the stereo aspect.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Good Ride

Jamie Karakas, 08/22/2007
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I traded in my 2006 Ford Escape for the 2008 Ford Escape, need I say more? Awesome vehicle. New body style, gas mileage, chrome, interior/exterior design, etc.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

08 Escape Saved My Life

alive2talkaboutit, 09/02/2007
2008 Ford Escape Limited 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Too quick to know exactly what happened, but I wrapped my brand new Escape around an electric pole this week and am here to talk about it. '08 handled my 52 MPH head on like a champ! ROLL BAR: In tact. AIRBAGS: Deployed & deflated quickly. NOT TRAPPED: rear glass popped open giving me a quick escape route from the fire. WINDSHIELD: Didn't shatter. Just a little crack in the corner. INTERIOR: Still looked like new! Not even a little mark in the leather, Impact did not send the motor in to the body cavity (or my legs). ME? Didn't have jewelry on, I would not have had a mark on me! This was not only a pleasure to drive and look at, it was a damn good car! I will buy another.

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5 out of 5 stars

Very Happy with Escape Purchase

kathyam157, 10/19/2007
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I was looking for a small SUV that had a decent amt of cargo capacity, excellent safety features, good reliability, 4wd,leather, satellite radio, moonroof, and of course I had to like the comfort, looks and performance. I also wanted one made in USA, but didn't want to pay more than 25K. I have found all of that and more in my 2008 Escape! Also pleased with gas mileage-20mpg combined. Very satisfied with my purchase, and would definitely choose it again.

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5 out of 5 stars

08 Escape awd 4cy

sjl, 10/31/2007
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've had my Escape a few weeks now, love it, drove everything (rogue, outlander,outback,compass etc.), happy with my choice. I'm getting about 24 mpg on hilly terrain, no hwy, with the AWD that I can't live without where I am. Replaced an Outback, this little suv is perfect. I love the camel interior, much nicer than the stone. The 4cy. is pretty nice after you get used to the tranny, it shifts funny until you develop a nack of driving it. There isn't a need for the 6cy. Never thought I'd go back to a Ford but my husband's new Ford diesel is so nice that it made me take a look at the Escape, very glad I did. It is suprisingly roomy inside and the whole interior layout is very nice.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Perfect for people who don't race

Nikhil, 11/05/2007
2008 Ford Escape Limited 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The interior is very slick with good utilities. Smooth ride. It is a family car with higher importance to safety rather than speed. Not to be used for street light racing. Fuel economy - 25 MPG which is not very good as compared to foreign models. Price - compitative to most foreign cars and almost $5,000 less than a CR-V

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Escape

coolcall, 11/13/2007
2008 Ford Escape Limited 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I am overall extremely impressed with this vehicle. I purchased it with every available option from ford and am not dissappointed at all. The GPS is amazing totally recommend, Easier to use than Mercedes'non-touch interface. I have driven nearly 3500 miles and average around 20 MPG with the 6 Cyl. The only gripe that i have is with the Cruise control, it average at least 2 Mpg less when it is on and varies greatly in speed up to 5-10 miles per hour. Other than that i love my espcape and personally believe that if Ford keeps up with producing vehicles to this build quality and overall solid feel, while still appeasing to luxury tastes they will be fine.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Small ute with a big attitude

Rick, 11/25/2007
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

So far we put over 6K miles on our 08' Escape. We absolutely love it! It has been the perfect replacement to our aged gas loving Astro van. Geting the EPA rated MPG. For a I4 FWD we have taken it to some bad roads and some mud and it handles it with no problem. It makes you fell like your in a Explorer. It's on the slow side with the I4. We clocked it a around 10-11.5 seconds to 60. We only had one problem. A weld in the gas tank. (baffle) broke and was causing an quite squeak. The dealer replaced it under warranty and gave us a free oil change in less then 5 hours! This car turned a GM family in to Ford buyers for life if we continue to be pleased.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Nice change

Peg, 11/26/2007
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've had my Escape almost 4 weeks, and have put on 2400 miles already. The ride is comfortable with lots of room for passengers. Gas mileage not too bad for a 6 cyl., I'm averaging 21.4 mpg and that is mostly highway driving. Traded my 2005 Outback, miss the heated seats, heated mirrors, and lumbar support.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

You gotta love it !

Burghguy, 03/09/2008
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought my 2008 Escape XLT 3 weeks ago and am impressed. I traded in my 2006 Fusion and could not be happier. The ride is like a sedan, fit and finish is great, and the new look exterior says class. The satellite radio is way too much fun. The interior could use more padding, but looks good. I have averaged 24 MPG for city driving and this alone is impressive. I can't wait everyday to hop in and drive. I have owned 20 cars in my life, 16 new cars, and this Escape ranks at the top. Thanks Ford!

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4.38 out of 5 stars

2008 Escape XLT V-6

Wisconsin D, 03/19/2008
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I traded my 01 Ford Ranger 4x4 for my Escape, and love my Escape. I use it for commuting, and pleasure - mileage on highway is about 24-25. In town it drops to 18-19. The V-6 is adequate for power. Handling is what sets this vehicle above others I tested. AWD is excellent - no problem with snow, ice, sleet. Inside is comfortable, and good visibility. We take it more than our Lexus for around town.

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5 out of 5 stars

Escape to more!

Escape to adventure!, 03/18/2008
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I recently traded in my 2005 Ford Escape for a 2008 Ford Escape. I went over that vehicle with a fine tooth comb. Then I did it again. I drove the Vue Red Line, Cx7, CRV, Element and an X3. The Ford won hands down! This vehicle was made for me. I got the Satellite Radio, Monnroof, Convenience Package, Sport Wheels and too many other options to list. I have had complete strangers come up to me and ask to take a look because they havent seen one and want to take a peek. Its amazing! I have had it for 3 weeks and already have 1600 miles on it. It's just FUN to drive! Ford has done an amazing job on this redesign! This is my 4th Ford. I wont even look at a Chevy!

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5 out of 5 stars

About time

df, 03/23/2008
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Have had pickups and large suvs past 20 years. Finally gave up f150. This Escape is so fun to drive, comfortable and quiet cpmpared to CR-V and Rav4, loaded and only cost 21000, v6 and 4wd. So far 22 mpg, better if cruise not used. Interior finish is neat, and exterior is sharp and finish is superb. We like this so much we are thinking of trading wife's Expedition for another.

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5 out of 5 stars

Manual Transmission Rocks!

aet, 03/26/2008
2008 Ford Escape XLS 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

After a week and a half I'm very impressed. If Mazda had had the right colors I would have had a Tribute because I really enjoyed my 05 Lapis Lasuli blue one - but a tree fell on it while I was driving. So the Escape's exterior color and other features were attractive. It has more room than some compact SUVs. The 5 speed manual really makes it perk up performance wise and I think the combination of 4cyl and manual will save me a little gas money. I just feel more in control of the car with manual. I'm waiting to see if the standard tires Continental Crosstrac wear out as fast as they did on my Tribute - 30,000 miles even with servicing.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

A comfortable, peppy, fun-to-drive car

Tom, 12/09/2007
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

After having driven sporty cars (last car a Mustang) for most of my life and having read your review I was expecting something much more pedestrian than the Escape turned out to be. It was comfortable from the get-go, handles very well and accelerates smartly. It is not choppy riding (try comparing it to a Focus SVT). Friends have commented on how smooth the ride is and how comfortable the car is. The power steering is well-balanced but could do with a bit less assist. I do not find any problem with the braking nor with gentle acceleration. Fuel economy is decent--not horrible but not super. In my case I use a gallon more fuel per week than I used to with my Mustang.

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5 out of 5 stars

It doesn't stand for fix or repair daily

MoRich, 04/04/2008
2008 Ford Escape XLS 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I thought I would never go back to American made cars again. I had a 2001 CRV until the trans died a few months ago. The Escape is rugged looking, sits higher, has a very smooth ride and fun to drive. It has a lot of interior room. Lots of head room and a quiet ride. Love the crome grill and the the keyless doors and back latch. Just gettting 18 MPG in city so far. Also brakes are a bit soft. Hope that will improve. Really enjoying the car.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Love it!

robind, 04/24/2008
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I brought the 2008 Ford Escape as a late Christmas gift to myself! I have been driving my husbands ChevyS10 pickup so this was a nice change. I love the feeling of still sitting up high and love they way it drives. It is fun to drive. I absolutely love my moonroof! I am taking it on a long trip in 2 months from Florida to Connecticut and I am sure it is gonna be a much more comfortable ride than riding in the Chevy truck. I am actually looking forward to this trip. Gas mileage is about 19 in the city which isn't too bad. Not sure about highway since I haven't really taken it too far yet on the highway.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Fun and Sporty!

Michelle, 04/28/2008
2008 Ford Escape Limited 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I sold my Yukon XL and wasn't ready to move down in size to a car so I had never really thought about the Escape because I wasn't crazy about the older body style. My Mom talked me into test driving one from the dealership where she worked. I loved it! My daughter loved it too. So, I figured out the colors and options I wanted and the dealership found one for me. I love it!

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4.75 out of 5 stars

My 2008 Escape!

bgreen2, 05/24/2008
2008 Ford Escape Limited 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This car is great! I owned a 2006 and the lease was up.They have done a wonderful job (Ford) upgrading this vehicle. The satellite radio, instrument cluster, and the fun of the drive are my favorites. It handles like a dream.

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5 out of 5 stars

Great Escape

Jon, 08/27/2018
2008 Ford Escape Limited 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

One of the best cars I have ever owned, it is a fine car, I wouled recomend to any one. Ford could't make them fast enough at there Kanses city plant, in that body style, this car had a lot of negative press, but the car is great bar none.this this

Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

I love my escape but am soon to part

Tica oxford mississippi , 04/13/2024
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

403,000 I've had a good run but I know it's time...

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Really good car

jhhen, 04/11/2025
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I received a Ford escape in 2008 for my company vehicle. I drove in the Central Valley of California from Bakersfield to Atascadero on the coast and Modesto in the north. In one year I drove the car 111,000 miles and only suffered 2 flat tires. The car still had the original tires on it when it was traded in for a different model the company went to. I really liked that little car. It was the 4 cylinder model and got great gas mileage.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
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Performance
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Interior
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Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4.63 out of 5 stars

Impressed

khogan, 10/02/2008
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful

Overall I love the car! There is plenty of room, although the seats could be a bit more comfortable, and more trunk space. I love the sun roof, and the smoothness of the car.

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5 out of 5 stars

A Nice Driving Machine

Mike, 05/25/2007
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful

I didn't like the old Escape, so as soon as I saw the new Escape, I went to a dealer and test-drove one. It was much much quieter than the old one my brother is driving. Also, I like the front new grille. The price is also very reasonable compared to ridiculously asking price of a RAV4. I cross-shopped with a RAV4 and CRV and found the starting prices are similar, but once I add the same options a Escape has, the Japanese models cost $3K more. The feul economy is what I expected. It just gives me an everyday enjoyment on the road to work and home. I like the curtain bag, too.

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5 out of 5 stars

Pleasure to Own

Walt S., 04/24/2019
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 3 people found this review helpful

Totally satisfied in all ways.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Love this SUV

Theresa, 07/02/2008
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful

Traded in my 2005 Jeep Liberty and couldn't be happier! It rides and drives like a car but still gives me the comfort of knowing I can get through snow. I use this for a lot of stop and go driving and find that the fuel mileage is great. A little low power on hills but for 4 cyl and better mileage it's worth it. Sunroof is a must. Lots of leg room, comfortable in back, AC Max is "Cool" right away. Hidden compartment in console is nice to stash valuables out of sight. No more problems with spinning of rear wheels in wet weather like the Jeep. Took it on a short trip, cruise worked really nice. Overall, this was the best trade in I could've made to stay in 4WD, have comfort, and be fuel eff.

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3.38 out of 5 stars

Nightmare

Jessica, 07/14/2008
2008 Ford Escape Limited 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful

My experience of the Escape has been a nightmare! I am on my second 2008 Escape this year. The first one had braking issues and after being in the shop for an entire month, they exchanged me for another 2008 Escape. This one has been no different. I have owned this one for 9 days and already it will be in the shop for 3 days for ABS, Traction control and a loud Vibration that actually slows the vehicle down. All the issues with both have been rear end and braking issues. Not good! I have been in rental vehicles for 5 weeks now. So not only did I get one lemon, I actually have had two! I've driven Ford all my life so this is my 1st bad experience. Not very good gas mileage, not what was specified.

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3.5 out of 5 stars

Worse MPG than my '97 Explorer!

ShadowVFX, 03/07/2009
2008 Ford Escape XLS 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful

My family and I have owned Ford vehicles for over a decade now and all of us have been pleased with our vehicles. Recently, when it was time for me to purchase a new car, I looked to the Ford Escapes to replace my beloved '97 Ford Explorer. I ended up purchasing a 4 cylinder '08 Escape and I must say, I have not been impressed with it. I bought this car as a fuel-efficient replacement to my '97 Explorer. What I found was that my new '08 Escape actually less fuel efficient than my older Explorer, which was made over a decade earlier. I was so impressed with my '97 Explorer that it blinded me into a brand loyalty towards Ford. But now after buying this new, smaller,

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great Buy

BariDWT, 01/17/2008
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful

Just bought my 4WD XLT black pearl slate Escape and I love it so far. I live in Alaska where four wheel drive is a must and it handles great. Love the new exterior and interior over the old model...a definite improvement!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great SUV

Angels Mom, 02/24/2008
2008 Ford Escape Limited 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful

I've had my Escape for just over 3 weeks now. I missed my 2002 Pathfinder at first but after the last snow storm the Escape won me over for good! Handled much better than my old SUV and has a lot more safety features that I wanted in a truck. Got the top line model, love all bells and whistles. I have to say I love the satellite radio, who knew it could be so much fun! Some issues I do have; heated seats turn off after 10 minutes and there is no temp control, 4 speed trans doesn't cut it, gas mileage is not that great- getting 19 mpg on the hwy so far, heavy rain-water gets in the door and spills out the bottom once door is open- dealership says that normal but I have my doubts.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Liking it so far.

Kel, 03/10/2008
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful

Recently purchased this little SUV, a replacement for my 05 Taurus. Great little truck, love the driving position and pep from the V6. Not quite as refined as my wife's CR-V EX-L. Decent gas mileage, not much different than the Taurus.

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2.88 out of 5 stars

First AND Last Ford

onthehwy, 02/26/2011
2008 Ford Escape Limited 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful

This was my first in last Ford. In the three years that I have had this SUV, the air vent fell off, the front window squeaks when let down (it was supposedly fixed), had 3 new batteries, a transmission cooler, and now my transmission has gone bad. I'm sorry but all this should NOT happen within 3 years of owning a new car. I'm going back to Toyota!

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5 out of 5 stars

My Sweet Escape

Sweet Escape, 03/28/2008
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful

I replaced my 02' Mercury Mountaineer- 6cyl-AWD-that was getting about 12miles to the gallon for this great 08 Escape. I get on average of 23-25mpg and I love it. Everytime I go to the gas pump I smile--except at the prices of course. I had test driven the Jeep Patriot and Liberty but wasnt satisfied. Once I got behind the wheel of the Escape I knew. I love the Vista Blue Metallic, it's gorgeous! This is my 1st vehicle with a sunroof and it has spoiled me. I also love the satellite radio-NASCAR! This is my first new vehicle-I definitely made a wise choice.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

My second Escape

Doug, 05/14/2008
2008 Ford Escape Limited 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful

I had a 2005 XLT Escape and loved it but liked the look of the 2008 more. Have had the vehicle for 6 months and it is great. Drive 80 miles a day for work and the performacne and ride is excellent. For the price the Escape is and great.

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5 out of 5 stars

Traveling the roads

Dave, 09/30/2017
2008 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful

Great for long road trips

Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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