2017 Ford Escape Is Sporty But Expensive, Says Consumer Reports

So engineers and designers were tasked with making the Escape more of what it already was. It doesn't have to feature the family face, but it does need to be premium-ish because it costs a pretty penny.

We're not sure where Consumer Reports was going with this short review because they just say it's fun to drive and expensive. But that was true even before the refresh. The SYNC 3 system might be new, but CR has been critical of it in the past, whereas here they have nice things to say. SYNC 3 is the one that has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You can use that to remote start, unlock or even locate your Escape.

The real deal with this new Escape is that it comes with not one but two turbocharged engines, the 1.5 EcoBoost, and the powerful 2-liter. 245 horsepower is special in this class, so why didn't they review that instead?

Inside, the 2017 Escape is a mix of old and new. The center console is completely new, with a gear shifter that's moved closer to the driver and an e-brake making room for two cup holders. Three new colors have also been added, White Gold, Canyon Gold and Blue Lightning.

The $29,630 Escape that Consumer Reports got isn't a mid-grade model because prices start at around 24k and can go as high as $38,000. If you're looking for the most advanced safety suite, you should probably consider the Subaru Forester. If you dig the Escape but don't want to pay that much, there's one sharp-looking crossover that does the same job. The Hyundai Tucson also has a turbo engine, supple suspension, and poise.

Compact CUVs are a questionable solution for a fun car. But if you truly need excitement in your family transporter, consider the Mazda CX-5 as well. It specializes in good grip, engaging steering and well-controlled body lean.