[fabsroman]

I drove a Ford Escape for about 6 months and I liked it. Not as big as my truck, but it got me out in the fields with inches of snow on the ground. However, I don't think you can get it in manual, but I could be wrong. I had the 6 cylinder, which wasn't too good on gas. Of course, Ford has the Escape hybrid out, but I doubt you will find a used one on the market right now since Ford is having a tough enough time keeping them in stock. The Tribute is the same frame, but I didn't like the gearing of the transmission when we test drove it or the suspension. It seems as though the Escape was geared a little closer together (i.e., better acceleration and towing power) and the Escape seemed to have a tighter suspension, which you might not want if you want a smooth ride.