2008 Ford Escape will sell at a lower price

2008 Ford Escape will sell at a lower price

Ford Motor Co. has revealed information on pricing and trim levels on the 2008 Ford Escape SUV.

The ‘ute’s average selling price said to be $1,100 lower than that of 2007 models, despite somewhat improved design and more extensive list of standard equipment.

2008 Ford Escape (interior)

The new Ford Escape will start at $19,245 ($655 destination and delivery charges included) for the XLS trim with 2.3-liter in-line Duratec four-banger (153 hp, 152 lb.-ft torque) mated with a five-speed manual transmission.

The 2008 Ford Escape XLT V-6 will cost you only $22,545. There will also be a model with a Hybrid powerplant, which will begin at $25,740.

All vehicles will come with such standard equipment as Safety Canopy side curtain air bags, AdvanceTrac system with RSC, Tire Pressure Monitor System, standard MP3 audio jack, available SIRIUS satellite radio, and a new front storage bin with a power point and room for laptop storage.

What’s the most exciting is that the new SUV will be for the first time available with a touchscreen navigation system.

For some extra money you can also get optional 3.0-liter, 24-valve V-6 Duratec 30 V-6 engine (200 hp, 193 lb.-ft. torque) or 2.3-liter DOHC 16-valve Atkinson cycle I-4 engine and 330V Nickel-Metal Hydride battery, mated to four-speed automatic, intelligent 4WD system, moonroof, leather trim, DVD-based Navigation system, 17-inch wheels and other features.

2008 Ford Escape (interior, DVD navigation screen)

Photos: Ford

See also: 2007 Jeep Compass to cost $15,985