Ford Escape Undergoes Revamp - drops Hybrid and V6 plans for Turbos

Image credit - USA Today

Cars are getting the futuristic looks going by the years - that doesn't necessarily leave out larger SUVs like the Ford Escape. The new revamped Ford Escape receives not only an amazing facelift, but also brand new turbos for the kicks. Details after the break.


The redesigned Ford Escape is due unveiling next month at the Los Angeles Auto Show will be ditching the initially planned hybrid and V-6 power for the addition of the new four-cylinder turbo engines. Even so, Ford announced there will still be options for hybrids such as the Focus C-Max hybrid providing 25% higher in fuel efficiency than the Escape's hybrid.

The next generation Ford Escape packs three four-cylinder engines will include 1.6L turbo to the US market, along with siblings of 2.0L and 2.5L - without the turbo. Ford claims the 1.6L direct-injection EcoBoost engine will provide higher mpg ratings even surpassing the current tests on the Ford Escape's hybrid. The same engine is already being used in the European Focus and C-max.

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Mazda 3 SkyActiv Launched in Japan

This new variant is known as the Mazda 3 SP20 SkyActiv in Australia.

Article and image full credits to Car Advice.com

Details after the break.


What's under the hood:

1. 2.0L Direct-Injection Six-Speed Automatic Transmission
2. 113kW at 6000rpm and 194Nm torque at 4100rpm.
3. Fuel consumption rate at approximately 6.6litres/100 kilometers, 20% relatively less than its sibling at 8.2litres/100km.
4. Silver highlights are used throughout the interior.
5. Improve materials to upgrade cabin comfort.
6. Thicker body frame with closed-cross section.
7. Improved steering inputs and stabler ride.

Car Advice team is currently attending the local Mazda3 SP20 drive program and will provide a full review and more details in the coming days. Visit here for more press shots and information.

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