Media Release
14 February 2001
THE NEW FORD ESCAPE HAS LANDED
The Ford Escape, the new SUV (sports utility vehicle) offering from Ford New Zealand, slipped into Auckland late last
week.
The two models that make up the Escape range, the XLS and XLT, were instant head turners from the moment they arrived at
the Auckland docks.
“It is exciting to see the first of these vehicles arrive. Seeing them in the flesh has reconfirmed for me how popular
they are going to be,” said Brand Manager Barbara Paley.
The vehicles have a truly striking appearance. Their honey-comb grille makes them instantly recognisable, and their
sleek styling creates the appearance of a vehicle on the go – whether on or off road.
“The Escape has unlimited appeal. It benefits from Ford’s SUV heritage and design which means that it has the capability
to satisfy the desires of people who want the freedom to travel off-road, but also has the styling to ensure that it
never looks out of place in the city.”
An attractively appointed interior, including air conditioning and electric windows, add to the comfort level of the
vehicle. The XLS also offers a single slot CD player while the XLT includes a six-stack CD changer, cruise control and
power exterior mirrors.
Other features of the Escape include a class leading 150kW, 3.0 litre 24 valve Duratec V6 engine, four channel anti-lock
braking system (ABS), driver and front passenger airbags, pyrotechnic front seat belt pretensioners, auto turn-off
headlights, an engine immobiliser, remote central locking and Ford’s innovative Control Trac ll 4WD system.
For further information, please contact Lisa Franklin, Ford Motor Company,
Tel (09) 277 8556, Mobile (025) 997 761 or email lfrankl3@ford.com