Performance in snow/4 wheel drive only when needed

Nyron · 01-05-2009, 07:15 PM

I have searched the forums and couldn't really find an answer so if anyone has the time to respond, thanks so much.

I am very interested in a 2009 Escape XLT AWD or 4 WD. I just love the way the vehicle looks and drives. The size is perfect for me and the off road capabilities would be good enough for me (I am not taking a 27-28k vehicle to climb a rock). I am very worried about the 4 wheel drive system though. From my understanding it basically works when your front wheels begin to slip.

I had a Land Rover Freelander which used a similar system and I wasn't very impressed with it. The 4 wheel drive only seemed to kick in for a few moments until traction was regained. On an incline if I stopped I had trouble getting started again. For whatever reason I feel more confident when I have 4 wheel drive operating all the time (when needed). So the disclaimer is that I had all season tires on it.

I live in WV and travel over some mountains so a vehicle that goes in the snow is a must for me. I have owned 3 Rangers in the past and never really had a big problem--(at times you had to use caution because of the light back end). Right now I have an Impreza and that thing has been awesome. I have all season tires on it and I have went everywhere without any problems.

So I was hoping to get some opinions, I know winter tires are probably the biggest part of the equation although I have never used these or needed to. How is your winter performance? Would you rather have all time 4 wheel drive setting? With exception to the clearance, I feel that the Escape may not have the winter performance of my Impreza (although I consider it a much "nicer" vehicle.

wptski · 01-05-2009, 08:06 PM

Seems like you answered your own question. Buy something that has selectable 4WD. Unless somebody here has been in that situation of being on a snowy inclined, stopping and unable to start again??

The manual states that you might want to turn OFF the AdvanceTrac if you get stuck and need some wheel spin to get out! It applies the brakes on the spinning wheel.

Nyron · 01-05-2009, 08:21 PM

Thanks for the input.

I think the "intelligent 4 wheel drive" is the killer for me. Again though it sucks because there is no other vehicle that I am interested in. I have thought about a Forester but to me the Escape looks nicer and is a much better value.

wptski · 01-05-2009, 09:47 PM

How much of a incline were you talking about?

Nyron · 01-06-2009, 04:12 AM

I am not sure the exact degree but it was a paved road. I was basically trying the Land Rover out and like I said I was really disappointed. I guess my biggest complaint is that when the roads are noticeably bad I want to depend on constant 4 wheel drive.

I have read differing opinions, some say they have no problem and others confirm that the intelligent 4 wheel drive does limit them.

So I am still deciding, hopefully Ford comes up with some better offers although the rebates right now are insane. I am thinking about getting the Escape then come next winter just buying snow tires for it.

wptski · 01-06-2009, 08:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nyron

I am not sure the exact degree but it was a paved road. I was basically trying the Land Rover out and like I said I was really disappointed. I guess my biggest complaint is that when the roads are noticeably bad I want to depend on constant 4 wheel drive.

I have read differing opinions, some say they have no problem and others confirm that the intelligent 4 wheel drive does limit them.

So I am still deciding, hopefully Ford comes up with some better offers although the rebates right now are insane. I am thinking about getting the Escape then come next winter just buying snow tires for it.

I got my 09 on 11/11/08 with a $2500 rebate on the "A" Plan. I think they dropped rebates about a week later.

theoldwizard · 01-06-2009, 07:46 AM

Remember, "Mud & Snow" or "All Season" tire are not "Winter" tires. Real Winter tires will have a picture of a mountain or a snowflake on the side wall.

P.S. The reason the Escape and most other vehicle in that size class do not have true, selectable 4 wheel drive is to save weight and improve fuel economy. Most people would rather have the automatic system, despite its limitations.

theoldwizard · 01-06-2009, 09:14 AM

You definitely want a 2009 over a 2008. Engines have more power and better fuel economy !

Nyron · 01-06-2009, 09:46 AM

Yeah I think 40 more hp. The salesman initially gave me a 2008 when I told him I wanted a blue one. Also told me they are "flying off the lot." Have to love the process--thanks!

So I am getting ready to head out to a new dealership and see what they offer me.

theoldwizard · 01-06-2009, 02:14 PM

With AWD I would carry at least 200 lbs of sand bags in the back.