Jamie Page Deaton: Let's talk about how the Ford Escape drives, but before we take it for a spin, let's talk about its available engines.

Now the base XLS model comes with a four cylinder engine that makes 171 horse power, a 5-speed manual transmission is standard, but you can opt for a 6-speed automatic. If you go for one of the higher trims, you get that 6-speed automatic standard.

Now, there is a V6 engine option available too. It's a 3 liter V6 that makes 240 horse power, but it costs about $1000 over the base engine. Now fuel economy on the Escape is pretty good for the class. According to the EPA, with the base engine and two-wheel-drive, it gets 22 miles per gallon in the city and 28 miles per gallon on the highway.

Now you can do better than that fuel economy if you go with the Ford Escape Hybrid. It's got one of the best fuel economies in the class. But, in order to get it you've got to spend $9000 over the base Escape, and so, those fuel economy savings may not actually be enough to offset its higher price. Now that you know what the Escape has under the hood, let's hit the road and see how it drives.

Most car reviewers say that the Escape is pleasant to drive; although a few of them point out that it's a little bit more truck like than the competition. Another complaint we saw is that the braking distance on the Escape can be a little bit long. Now, the brakes still work fine, but that's something that you'll want to check out on your test drive.

So the bottom-line on how the Ford Escape drives is, it has plenty of power, good fuel economy, and pleasant handling. But, if you're looking for an SUV with an ultra-smooth ride or one that can stop on a dime, you'll want to check out the competition. To learn more about the Escape, check out our other videos on its seating, interior features, how it handles cargo, and the other SUVs you'll want to consider.