2007 four-wheel drive question

white_escape_hyrbid · 06-01-2007, 01:38 PM

I bought a 2007 hybrid escape with on-demand four wheel drive. Now I am seeing it described as "all wheel drive." Is it really a true 4 wheel drive?

Thanks!

Terry
Digital images by Terence P. Brashear

Abusch · 10-01-2007, 06:56 AM

There are so many variations of 4X4/all wheel drive systems on the roads today that the difference between all wheel drive and 4 wheel drive has become blurred.
The Ford Escapes use a transfere case, as is typical of 4X4 trucks, except the Escape does not have a low range as is commonly found in traditional 4X4 systems.
Another typical difference between 4X4 and AWD has been the Off Road Ability between the two systems. The Escape is NOT a rock crawler, but it is very well equipped for some types of Off Road use as well as, snow, mud, and sand. Which is less than a typical 4X4, but much more than a typical AWD.
Ford calls it a 4X4
Jeep owners will probably disagree.
The bottom line is, these are very good vehicles.
Enjoy your 4X4.