For 2008, the Ford Escape has a new look with updated sheet metal and interior, but it's still basically the same machine. And why change it? The Escape is the best-selling small SUV.

With lots of chrome on the nose, it blends with the rest of the Ford family. Optional $700 chrome wheels add to the shine factor.

The updated Escape interior is a big improvement over the old one. An easy-to-use touch screen navigation system is a whopping $2,400 option, but it also includes a CD changer and great sounding speakers. The center storage bin can be configured in all sorts of ways for better use of space.

Back seat legroom and headroom are excellent for a small SUV.

Our test Escape has the optional $300 cargo convenience package. In addition to the conventional tailgate, you can just pop open the glass. It makes it nice to grab things quickly and go.

Power comes from Ford's tried-and-true 3.0 liter V6 with 200 horsepower.

No matter how fresh the Escape's new face is, the ride and handling remind you of it's older truck origins. Noise level though is not too bad. Fuel economy averaged about 19 miles per gallon.

As equipped, the four-wheel drive Ford Escape Limited sticker price is $30,910.

The new look should help this hot seller stay near the top.

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