DEARBORN, MI – The new redesigned 2008 Ford Escape is features a quieter ride and a host of new features and options, with sticker prices averaging $1,100 less than 2007 Escape models. The 2008 Escape also benefits from substantially improved residual values, according to Ford. With more than 1 million units sold, Escape has been the best-selling small sport/utility vehicle in North America since its launch in September 2000, according to Ford. Built at Ford’s Kansas City Assembly Plant in Missouri, the new 2008 Ford Escape will arrive in showrooms in the first quarter of 2007, building on its traditional SUV capability and crossover construction. New inside and out, the 2008 Escape features a several standard safety features, more upscale interior appointments, and improved comfort and quietness levels. MSRP for the 2008 Ford Escape starts at $19,245 for the Escape XLS I-4 manual, including $665 destination and delivery. The 2008 Escape XLT V-6 – the model that’s expected to account for half of all Escape sales – will be priced a $22,545. The 2008 Escape Hybrid will begin at $25,740. The 2008 Ford Escape delivers as much as an 11-point improvement in 36-month residual value over the 2007 model. The new 2008 Escape offers more customer convenience features, such as a standard MP3 audio jack, available SIRIUS satellite radio, and a new front storage bin with a power point and room for laptop storage. A touchscreen navigation system also is available on Escape gas models for the first time. The 2008 Ford Escape is available in three trim series: XLS, XLT, and Limited. Three engines choices are available: 2.3L I-4, 3.0L V-6, or 2.3L I-4 Atkinson Cycle hybrid engine. Standard features include:

• New exterior styling.
  

• Standard safety features, including: Safety Canopy side air curtains; side-impact airbags; ABS brakes; Tire Pressure Monitor System; and Ford’s AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control (on gas models).
  

• 2.3L, 16-valve Duratec 23 I-4 engine (153 hp, 152 lb.-ft torque), paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.
  

• Front-wheel drive.
  

• New steering, upgraded with a speed-sensitive Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) system.
  

• All-new interior with new materials.
  

• New second-row 60/40 split fold-flat seats.
  

• New MP3 audio input jack.
  

• New front storage bin with power point and room for laptop storage.
  

• New 16-inch wheels.

  Available options include:

  
  

• 3.0L, 24-valve V-6 Duratec 30 V-6 engine (200 hp, 193 lb.-ft. torque) or 2.3L DOHC 16-valve Atkinson cycle I-4 engine and 330V Nickel-Metal Hydride battery.
  

• 4-speed automatic transmission.
  

• Intelligent 4WD system.
  

• New SIRIUS satellite radio.
  

• Audiophile sound system with AM/FM, CDX6, seven speakers, and subwoofer.
  

• DVD-based Navigation system with AM/FM, CDX6, seven speakers, and subwoofer (new option for gas models).
  

• New leather trimmed seats with 6-way power driver’s seat.
  

• Moonroof.
  

• New 17-inch wheels.
  

• New Limited Luxury Package includes: dual electronic automatic temperature control; driver and front passenger heated seats; heated side-view mirrors; reverse sensing; steering wheel audio switches.
  

• Class II Trailer Towing (for up to 3,500 lbs. maximum towing capacity).
  

• Chrome Appearance Package.