Since Ford released the iconic Escape nearly ten years ago, the crossover has been one of the best-selling vehicles in their lineup. Sometimes it's hard to change a reliable favorite, but Ford took some daring leaps with the 2013 Escape, and we're sure you won't be disappointed. Not only will the new Escape strike you with its clean and modern lines, it's filled with a bunch of new techie features, including a segment-first hands-free liftgate.

The liftgate, which utilizes gesture-based technology (similar to the technology used in video games), will pop open in response to a gentle kick under the rear bumper. Of course, there are some limitations. For example, not just anybody can open the liftgate - the key fob must be in the pocket or purse of the person who wishes to open the door. It's also been specially engineered to respond to the kicking motion of a human shin, so it won't open up while you're travelling down the highway and hit a bump or if a small animal runs under the Escape while it's parked in your driveway.

Clearly, this will save drivers a lot of time and energy. Jason Sprawka, Brand Manager for the Escape explains, "The hands-free power liftgate is yet another innovative Ford technology that makes customers' lives easier. New Escape owners will be able to load their vehicle without ever having to set packages or gear down."¹

When the Ford Escape debuts next year, drivers will get to choose between a 171-hp, 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine; a 173-hp, 1.6-liter EcoBoost, four-cylinder engine; or a 237-hp 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, all mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Also available is the new Parking Technology package that includes a blind-spot warning system, front and rear parking sensors, a backup camera and Ford's Active Park Assist self-parking system. Add to all of that the safety features (Torque Steer Compensation, Torque Vectoring Control and Curve Control), we're thinking that the 2013 Escape is quite the crossover.

That said, be sure to stay tuned with Keller Bros Ford, 250 Schaeffer Rd Lebanon, PA 17042 for continued updates on this and all of the other new Ford models set to arrive in our showroom next year. Questions? Give us a call at (877) 873-9963 or contact us via our website anytime.

Source: ¹http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/01/2013-ford-escape-to-offer-hands-free-power-liftgate/