The 2001 Ford Escape was seen by many drivers and reviewers as a delightful surprise from Dearborn. Although Ford had made a tremendous fuss about its plans to launch a smaller, more nimble SUV, the '01 Escape delivered far beyond expectations.

With a 173-inch overall length, the 2001 Escape was a pixie among the sport-utility market's behemoths. Despite its relatively small size, though, it managed to fit five adults in reasonable comfort, and hold 33 cubic feet (with rear seats up) or 63 cubic feet (with rear seats folded) of cargo.

The entry-level engine for the '01 Ford Escape was the 2.0 liter, 4-cylinder Zetec with a 130-horsepower output. An optional upgrade, to the 3.0 liter, 24-valve Duratec V-6, with its healthy 200 horsepower and 200 lb.-ft. of torque, transformed the Escape into a little powerhouse.

ABS front-disc brakes gave the Escape great stopping power, and optional front-side airbags added security. Despite its outdoorsy stylings, though, the 2001 Escape wasn't a great off-road vehicle; designed for suburban streets and interstate highway, the Escape was more comfortable there.

And speaking of 'comfort,' the Escape was easy on the wallet when it came to the gas pump, with mileage rated at 18-23 mpg city, 24-28 mpg highway, depending on model. Not bad at all for a sturdy little packhorse that could tote a bunch of people and cargo!