2014 Ford Escape Titanium (2.0L) AWD Review, As Rented from Avis/Budget Rent-a-Car

2014 Ford Escape Titanium (2.0L) AWD Review:

            Introduction: When Ford introduced their Escape compact SUV for the 2001 Model Year, it received little critical reception, though still sold in large numbers. When the time came to redesign their Escape in 2008, Ford kept the same, familiar design, yet updated the exterior and interior to give it a more up-to-date appearance. This design soldiered on mainly unchanged until 2013, when the third-generation Ford Escape debuted with an all-new design and platform. Let’s take a look at the 2014 Ford Escape Titanium 2.0L AWD.

            Exterior: The Ford Escape shares its basic design with the European Ford Kuga compact SUV, and its platform with the Ford Focus/C-MAX compact cars. One look at the 2014 Ford Escape, and you’d never be able to tell that it is an Escape. This particular example was finished in White Pearl Coat. Standard exterior details on the Titanium model include rather attractive-looking eighteen-inch chrome-plated alloy wheels sitting on eighteen-inch BSW all-season tires, active front grille shutters to improve fuel economy, power rear tailgate that is activated by either using the keyless remote or by simply placing your foot under the rear bumper, which makes it much easier to open the Liftgate when you come back to your Escape from a day full of shopping. Also included are keyless remotes that are as unique in their design as the Escape itself, with sensors on both front doors that allow the driver and his or her front passenger to enter the Escape without having to remove the key from their purse, bag, or pocket. Of course, you can also use the lock and unlock buttons on the remote itself to use the same functions. Also on the remote are buttons to open the power rear tailgate and remote start the vehicle by simply pressing the lock button and then the dedicated remote start button. Pressing the remote start button once shuts off the remotely-started vehicle. The Escape features a front end design reminiscent of its Focus and C-MAX siblings, and features Ford’s new “global” corporate look. The door handles and side mirrors (which are both power-adjustable and heated, with integrated turn signal indicators) are both color-keyed to the Escape’s exterior, and the sides of the Escape are also made up of clean, flowing lines. The rear end of the Escape flows with the rest of the vehicle, with tail lamps that integrate nicely with the rear tailgate. Overall, the exterior design on the Ford Escape is very attractive.

            Interior: Step into the interior of the Ford Escape, and you’re reminded more of a compact sedan rather than a compact SUV that you’re driving. Most of the dashboard design is shared with the Ford Focus and C-MAX, and the instrument cluster is easy-to-read with blue backlighting and a full set of analog gauges, complemented nicely by a small, color informational display between the speedometer and tachometer. The steering wheel, identical to the Ford Focus’s, houses controls for the Escape’s audio system, SYNC voice-activated entertainment system, vehicle information system, and speed and cruise controls. Push-button allows the driver to start the Escape provided provided the keyless remote is inside the vehicle. The center stack houses the MyFord Touch audio system, which includes an A/M-F/M stereo with HD Radio technology, SIRIUS-XM Satellite Radio (this includes a six-month complimentary SIRIUS-XM Select subscription courtesy of Ford), a single-disc CD/MP3/DVD player, iPod/USB input jacks, a microSD card slot for loading photos and music onto the system’s hard drive for later viewing or playback, a 3.5-millimeter auxiliary audio input jack, and a set of A/V input jacks as well. DVD video discs can only be viewed while the vehicles in in Park. The eight-inch full-color touch screen display is divided into four quadrants (Phone, Entertainment, Information- this particular Escape did not feature GPS navigation and Climate). The system responds nicely to the touch. The SYNC voice-activated entertainment system responds to voice commands (you can control practically the entire vehicle with your voice), and pairing of our Samsung Galaxy S5 Android test phone was seamless and practically immediate. The Titanium model features a power front driver’s seat, dual heated five-level front seats, and memory positions for three drivers, though the front passenger’s seat did not unfortunately feature power adjustments, which is unacceptable for a $30k+ vehicle. The steering wheel was unfortunately only vinyl-wrapped, and was not heated. It also was only manually-tilting, and did not telescope. No paddle shifters for the automatic transmission were present. The glove box was dual-hinged and padded, with a shelf for owner’s manuals for the vehicle. Front SRS and all-around side airbags are naturally standard, though Ford’s inflatable rear seatbelt airbags were also not present. The dual-zone, automatic climate control is easy to adjust, and includes a display for easy viewing of current settings. The rear seat passengers have vents for the air conditioner and heater, but unfortunately, no separate controls from the main controls up front, and no heated rear seats. A sliding, adjustable rear seat would be a nice addition. LED ambient lighting adorned the interior, though the LED overhead lighting was not as bright as expected, and rear passengers cannot easily control their own light (which was only one light). The twelve-speaker, 390-watt Sony premium sound system sounded excellent, and even included a rear-mounted subwoofer for even more punch. The material used in the front and rear seats was rather firm, and should be softer. Black trim adorns the interior, though wood trim is expected on this model. A rear backup camera and parking sensors were present, and made backing up easier. Overall, the interior of the Ford Escape could use some improvements, but is acceptable.

            Performance/Ride Quality/Fuel Economy: The Ford Escape is rather peppy when it comes to its performance. This particular Escape, and all Titanium models, include a turbocharged 2.0L EcoBoost inline four-cylinder (I4) engine that produces 240 horsepower, which is more than acceptable for an SUV of this class. This particular Escape also included all-wheel-drive (AWD), though the ‘4WD’ emblem on the rear tailgate is misleading, as the Escape does not include true four-wheel-drive, due to it being based on a car platform. The six-speed automatic transmission is standard issue on all Escape models (unfortunately, no manual transmission is available on the Escape), though buttons for a manual shifting mode, as well as a Sport Drive mode, which stiffens suspension and steering for a sportier driving feel, were present. Paddle shifters on the steering wheel would have been a nice touch. Overall, the Escape rides like a compact sedan rather than a compact SUV, and can even quickly accelerate when you press on the gas pedal, which is an excellent attribute, though lead-footed drivers may have to get used to this. The suspension was surprisingly very carlike, and road noise was audible, though the cabin was still rather quiet. Steering was effortless. Starting on a full tank of regular unleaded gasoline, the Escape achieved excellent MPG, with only one fill-up required on a 200-mile trip. Overall, the performance of the Ford Escape is more than acceptable for an SUV of this type.

            Summary: To sum up, the 2014 Ford Escape Titanium 2.0L AWD is a nice compact SUV, though it could use a few more luxury features to match up to its price point. Vincent’s Auto Reviews says that the 2014 Ford Escape Titanium 2.0L AWD is well worth a look if you are shopping for a compact SUV!

Price (MSRP), Base (2014 Ford Escape Titanium 2.0L AWD): $30,850.00

Price (MSRP), as Equipped (2014 Ford Escape Titanium 2.0L AWD): $32,685.00

Exterior Color: White Platinum Tri-Coat Metallic

Interior Color/Type: Ebony Full Leather

Fuel Type Required: Regular Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane)

Engine Type: 2.0L “EcoBoost” Inline Four-Cylinder (I4), Turbocharged, 240 Horsepower, 270 Lb. Feet of Torque

Transmission Type: 6-Speed Automatic w/ Sport Drive and Manual Modes

Drive Type: All-Wheel-Drive, All-Time (AWD)

Price, As Rented from Avis/Budget Rent-a-Car, Total: $110.00 USD

-Vincent D., Vincent’s Auto Reviews

1993-2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Changes

Let’s take a look at the year-by-year changes for the Jeep Grand Cherokee:

1993: The Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ debuts in early 1992 as an early 1993 model vehicle, replacing the aging Jeep Grand Wagoneer SJ, which was discontinued after a final sendoff in 1992. The Grand Wagoneer Limited model, based on the luxurious Limited model, with its faux wood paneling decals, luxury interior, and more luxury features, becomes available in mid-1993 and (temporarily) takes the place of its predecessor. A class-leading, 220-horsepower 5.2L Magnum V8 engine becomes available on all models (standard on the Grand Wagoneer Limited model) in early 1993.

1994: For its second year on the market, the Jeep Grand Cherokee receives some changes. To start things off, the Base model is renamed the SE to attract more buyers, and the slow-selling and poorly-received Grand Wagoneer Limited model is discontinued after a short production run for 1993. The AccuSound by Jensen premium sound system is renamed Infinity Gold, and side-impact door beams become standard on all models to further enhance the safety of the vehicle. The SE model gains the previously-optional fifteen-inch styled steel wheels as standard equipment, as well as an A/M-F/M stereo with cassette player as standard equipment on all models.

1995: For 1995, the manual transmission is no longer an option on the Jeep Grand Cherokee. An Orvis Edition, in partnership with the Orvis Catalog, and based on the luxurious Limited model, becomes available with a unique color scheme of Moss Green (a Light Driftwood Metallic color for this model becomes available in early 1995 for this model, as well). The SE model gains standard keyless entry, power windows, and power door locks, as well as standard air conditioning, to further appeal to families. A power sunroof is a newly-available option on almost all models.

1996: For 1996, the Jeep Grand Cherokee gets a mid-cycle update. A larger front grille becomes standard, new bumpers, and newly-revised dual SRS front airbags become standard. New seat styles become available, and low-back front bucket seats become standard. The Laredo model is now the “base” model, as the previously-base SE model has been discontinued. Both engines are improved as well. All models get new wheel and tire combinations, and the model designations are moved front the upper front fenders to the lower front doors, with emblems replacing the previously-equipped decals. A new instrument panel rounds out the changes, as does a digital odometer and trip odometer.

1997: For 1997, the Jeep Grand Cherokee gets two new model choices. The Special Edition model is slotted below the Laredo model, and is based on the Laredo model as well, and adds value-added features, and exterior color-keyed trim. The TSi model, slotted below the Limited model, adds leather-trimmed bucket seats, heated front seats, an Infinity Gold premium sound system, and power dual front bucket seats, as well as exterior color-keyed trim and unique sixteen-inch alloy wheels and performance tires.

1998: For 1998, the Jeep Grand Cherokee enters its final year in its current ZJ design. A 5.9L Limited model becomes available, adding a 240-horsepower, 5.9L Magnum V8 engine, functional hood vents, a power sunroof, heated front bucket seats, unique sixteen-inch alloy wheels mounted on sixteen-inch Good Year Eagle BSW performance tires, and an even more luxurious interior. An A/M-F/M stereo with cassette and CD players and a special ten-speaker Infinity Gold premium sound system with 180 watts are also standard features on this model. The Orvis Edition model is discontinued after 1997.

1999: For 1999, the Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ is introduced. The models are reduced to base Laredo and up-level Limited, and a new 4.7L Power Tech V8 engine that produces 235 horsepower replaces the old 5.2L, 220-horsepower Magnum V8 engine for 1999.

2000: Getting a full redesign for 1999, the 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee gets only minor changes. Upgraded sixteen-inch alloy wheels are now optional on the Laredo model.

2001: For 2001, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is revised. The gold-colored trim on the Limited model is deleted, and a 60^TH Anniversary Edition model, based on the Limited model, is available for one year only to commemorate 60 years of the Jeep brand. The Laredo model gains a new Sport Appearance Package, with seventeen-inch sport alloy wheels and performance tires, plus a leather-trimmed interior. The Limited model gets new leather-trimmed seating surfaces, as well as standard seventeen-inch alloy wheels with performance tires. Aluminum interior trim now adorns the base Laredo model, replacing the previously-available wood-grained interior trim.

2002: For 2002, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is once again revised. Sirius Satellite Radio is now an option on all models, as is a GPS navigation system. A luxurious new Overland model adds leather-and-suede-trimmed seating surfaces, an A/M-F/M stereo with cassette and CD players and a rear-mounted ten-disc CD changer, side SRS impact airbags (also available on all model for 2002), seventeen-inch chrome-clad alloy wheels mounted on performance tires, and front heated bucket seats to the luxurious Limited model. A Sport model is now available that is priced below the base Laredo model, and adds a standard A/M-F/M stereo with cassette and CD players, a six-speaker Infinity Gold premium sound system, dual power front bucket seats, and more to the base Laredo model. A 4.7L high-output Power-Tech V8 engine is now available on the Limited and Overland models, and a five-speed automatic transmission is paired to all V8 engine-equipped models. There are new radio options, and an A/M-F/M stereo with single-disc CD player is now standard equipment on the base Laredo model. New seat fabrics are now used on all Laredo models. A new Special Edition model adds power dual front bucket seats and exterior color-keyed trim to the base Laredo model.

2003: For 2003, the Jeep Grand Cherokee gets multiple changes, including the new Freedom Edition model, which adds dual power front bucket seats, A/M-F/M stereo with cassette and CD players, a six-speaker Infinity Gold premium sound system, and seventeen-inch graphite-finished alloy wheels to the base Laredo model. The Sport model is discontinued. High-back cloth front bucket seats replace the previously-standard low-back cloth front bucket seats on the base Laredo model, though the latter is still available as an option. Dual 12V front power outlets replace the previously-standard single 12V front power outlet and front cigarette lighter. A center front storage compartment replaces the previously-standard front ashtray on all models. 2003 is the shortest production year for the Jeep Grand Cherokee, with production of the 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee starting in early 2003.

2004: For 2004, all Jeep Grand Cherokees with 4X4 are now Trail Rated 4X4’s, as are all 4X4 Jeep vehicles for 2004. A new Columbia Edition model adds special trim to the base Laredo model, and a Columbia parka is included at no cost to owners of this special edition Jeep Grand Cherokee model. The Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ has early production starting in early 2003, and enters its final year of production before an all-new model is introduced for 2005.

2005: For 2005, an all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee, dubbed the WK, is introduced. The Laredo and Limited are the only two models available for 2005. A rear DVD entertainment system, a U Connect hands-free Bluetooth phone system, GPS navigational system, and Sirius Satellite Radio are all available for 2005. A 5.7L HEMI V8 engine with Variable Valve Timing (VVT) and Multi-Displacement System (MDS) is available on the Limited model, producing 345 horsepower. Five-speed automatic transmissions with manual shifting modes become standard on all Jeep Grand Cherokees for 2005. The 3.7L Power-Tech V6 engine, producing 210 horsepower, replaces the aging 190-horsepower, 4.0L Power-Tech I6 engine that had been available since the Jeep Grand Cherokee was introduced in 1993.

2006: For 2006, the Jeep Grand Cherokee gets a few changes. A 65^TH Anniversary Edition, only available for 2006 and based on the base Laredo model, commemorates Jeep’s 65^TH anniversary. The luxurious Overland model returns for 2006, with the standard HEMI V8 engine, and a new performance-oriented SRT8 model with twenty-inch chrome-clad Alcoa forged alloy wheels and performance tires, plus a 6.1L HEMI V8 engine with MDS and VVT that produces 425 horsepower, becomes available.

2007: For 2007, the Jeep Grand Cherokee once again gets a few changes. First, a Rocky Mountain Edition appears and is based on the base Laredo model. In some states, the 4.7L Power Tech V8 engine is FlexFuel capable, and a new 3.0L Common-Rail Diesel (CRD) V6 engine that produces 215 horsepower, is now available.

2008: For 2008, the Jeep Grand Cherokee gets a mid-cycle restyling. The 4.7L Power-Tech V8 engine now produces 305 horsepower, up from 235 horsepower, and the 5.7L MDS/VVT HEMI V8 engine now produces 360 horsepower, up from 345 horsepower. New radios are available.

2009: For 2009, the Jeep Grand Cherokee gets only a few minor changes. The Rocky Mountain Edition model is discontinued midyear, and the Laredo model loses the previously-available 4.7L Power Tech V8 engine option. The 3.0L CRD V6 engine option is discontinued.

2010: For 2010, the Jeep Grand Cherokee enters its last year in its current form of the WK. The Laredo models gets an optional 5.7L MDS/VVT HEMI V8 engine, and the Overland model is discontinued. An “S” Limited model, previously only available in European markets, is available for 2010 only on the Limited model. Exterior color choices are significantly reduced for 2010, as well. The 4.7L Power-Tech V8 engine is also no longer available after 2009.

2011: For 2011, the Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 is introduced. A 282-horsepower, 3.6L Pentastar VVT V6 engine, which is FlexFuel capable, replaces the previously-available 3.7L Power-Tech V6 engine, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 is the first Chrysler Corporation vehicle to use the new engine. The SRT8 model and its 6.1L MDS/VVT HEMI V8 engine go on hiatus for 2011. A new Overland Summit model adds more luxury details to the already luxurious Overland model, and a 70^TH Anniversary Edition model, based on the Laredo “X” model, is available for 2011 only to commemorate Jeep’s 70^TH anniversary. Sirius Backseat TV is now available when coupled with the rear DVD entertainment system.

2012: For 2012, the Jeep Grand Cherokee gets a few changes. First, a new 20” Tire/Wheel and Navigation Package adds a GPS navigational system and twenty-inch alloy wheels and tires to the base Laredo “E” model. The SRT8 model returns for 2012 with a new 6.4L MDS/VCT HEMI V8 engine that now produces 470 horsepower. A new Altitude model adds “blacked-out” accents and more unique features to the base Laredo model.

2013: For 2013, the Jeep Grand Cherokee gets a few changes. Two new SRT8 Special Editions become available (the Alpine and Vapor Editions), each with their unique details, and are only available for 2013. A new Trailhawk model adds unique details and red-painted accents to the Laredo “X” model.

2014: For 2014, the Jeep Grand Cherokee gets a mid-cycle restyling. The SRT8 model is renamed the SRT. A new 3.0L Fiat-sourced EcoDiesel V6 engine producing 244 horsepower is available on all models aside from the SRT model. The Overland Summit model is renamed the Summit. New infotainment system options, new seat colors and styles, and a new exterior design round out the changes. A base Laredo model becomes available, slotted below the Laredo “E” model. An eight-speed automatic transmission becomes standard equipment on all models.

2015: For 2015, the Jeep Grand Cherokee gets a few changes. First, the SRT model’s 6.4L MDS/VVT HEMI V8 engine gets 485 horsepower, up from 470 horsepower. The Limited model requires a buyer to option up for the Luxury II Package to get the previously-standard nine-speaker, 506-watt, Alpine surround-sound system in place of a standard six-speaker sound system. The Summit California Edition becomes available, with luxurious details added onto the Summit model.

2015 GM Model Changes

Let’s take a look at what’s new for GM for 2015:

BUICK:

Verano: For 2015, the base model Buick Veranos get newly-styled seventeen-inch alloy wheels. A manual transmission option is now only available on the Turbo Premium model.

Regal: For 2015, the Buick Regal sees no changes.

LaCrosse: For 2015, the Buick LaCrosse sees no changes.

Encore: For 2015, some of the Buick Encore models get new equipment packages.

Enclave: For 2015, the base price of the Buick Enclave increases due to the discontinuation of the Convenience Group (the Leather Group is now the base model Enclave).

CADILLAC:

ATS: For 2015, the Cadillac ATS Sedan is joined by a Coupe model. All models get a new front grille as well. A glove box-mounted CD/MP3/DVD/DVD Audio player is now available on the Cadillac CUE System-equipped ATS Coupes and Sedans.An ATS-V model will debut for 2016.

CTS: For 2015, the CTS-V Coupe gets one final run with a Special Edition. The CTS-V Sedan and Sports Wagon are both discontinued, as are the regular CTS Coupe and Sports Wagon.  The front grille is changed on the Sedan model, and new wheel options are available. A glove box-mounted CD/MP3/DVD/DVD Audio player is now available on the Cadillac CUE System-equipped CTS Sedans. The CTS-V Sedan model returns for 2016.

ELR: For 2015, the ELR sees no changes, as it was an all-new model for 2014. The ELR, however, may see a new front fascia, as all Cadillac models are being restyled for 2015.

XTS: For 2015, the XTS sees no changes, other than a new front grille.

SRX: For 2015, the SRX sees no changes, other than a new front grille midyear. 

Escalade/ESV: For 2015, the Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV are both fully redesigned. Later in the year, Platinum models debut, and the front grilles on both models are revised.

CHEVROLET:

Spark/EV: For 2015, the Chevrolet Spark and Spark EV see no changes.

Sonic/RS: For 2015, the Chevrolet Sonic RS sees no changes.The MyLink Entertainment System and six speaker sound system option is no longer available on the base 1LS models. An RS-style rear spoiler is available on all models.

Cruze/Eco/Diesel: For 2015, while the rest of the world sees an all-new, second-generation Chevrolet Cruze, the North American model Cruze only gets restyled in the front and rear ends, and gets a slightly new interior. The previously-available Pioneer Premium Audio System on the Eco model is no longer available. The Pioneer Premium Audio System continues to be available on all models but the 1LS and Eco, though it is only available as part of the Sunroof and Sport Package. 2LT and higher models get new standard tire and wheel combinations. Expect to see the formal debut of the all-new, second-generation 2016 Chevrolet Cruze at the 2015 North American International Auto Show.

Malibu: For 2015, the Chevrolet Malibu Eco model is discontinued.The Pioneer premium sound system is no longer standard on the LTZ (1LZ/3LZ) models, and is now only available as part of a Navigation and Entertainment Package on these models.A new base L model slots below the previously-base LS (1LS) model, and is only available with the six-speed manual transmission, lowering the base price of the Cruze. The Diesel model is also no longer available with the six-speed manual transmission.

Impala: For 2015, the Chevrolet Impala Eco model is discontinued.

Camaro/ZL-1/Z-28: For 2015, the Chevrolet Camaro lineup sees little changes.

Corvette Stingray/Z-06: For 2015, the high-performance Chevrolet Corvette Z-06 is reintroduced, and for the first time ever with either an automatic or a manual transmission as options. Regular Chevrolet Corvette Stingray models see a new eight-speed automatic transmission to replace the old seven-speed automatic transmission. On base Corvette Stingray models, options from the Z-51 Performance Package can be optioned up individually. Valet Mode is now an option, though it will be available later in the Model Year, as it was required to be updated in order to meet federal standards.

SS: For 2015, the new-for-2014 Chevrolet SS sees little changes, though sports-car enthusiasts can now rejoice: a six-speed manual transmission is now available on the SS. New exterior paint colors are also available on the SS for 2015. 

Trax: For 2015, the Chevrolet Trax is introduced to North America. An all-new model that shares a platform with the Buick Encore and Opel/Vauxhall Mokka, the Trax is aimed at customers wanting the fuel economy of a compact sedan, but the versatility of a compact SUV.  It will be available early 2015.

Equinox: For 2015, the Chevrolet Equinox sees no changes, though the Chrome Package is now available on some models.The base LS (1LS) model also sees standard black-painted side view mirrors, replacing the previously-standard exterior color-painted side view mirrors.

Traverse: For 2015, the Chevrolet Traverse sees no changes.

Suburban/Tahoe: For 2015, the Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe are both all-new, along with their Cadillac and GMC siblings. A Z/71 Off-Road Edition Package for the LT and LTZ models will be available midyear 2015.

Colorado: Along with its GMC Canyon sibling, the Chevrolet Colorado is reintroduced for 2015, with more power and features than ever before. It arrives fall 2014 as an early 2015 model.

Silverado 1500: For 2015, the new-for-2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 sees available appearance packages. The door handles and side-view mirrors on 1LT models that were painted black for 2014 are now color-keyed to the exterior paint color for 2015. The 2W/T model is renamed the 1LS model, and therefore, the 1W/T Appearance Package is now discontinued.

Silverado HD: For 2015, the Chevrolet Silverado HD, along with its GMC sibling, is fully redesigned, with design cues from the light-duty Chevrolet Silverado 1500.

Express City: For 2015, Chevrolet gets a compact cargo van to compete with the likes of the Ford Transit Connect, but it’s not a Chevrolet. In fact, its basic design, aside from the Chevy Bowtie styling cues, is shared with the Nissan NV200 Compact Cargo Van that has been on sale in North America since 2013. The van will go on sale in late 2014 as an early 2015 Model Year vehicle.

Express: For 2015, the Chevrolet Express 1500 and the 4.3L V6 are both quietly dropped. Power windows and door locks are now standard on all models, though they can still be deleted for credit. An A/M-F/M stereo with auxiliary audio input jack is now standard on the LS (1LS) Passenger Van models.

GMC:

Terrain/Denali: For 2015, the GMC Terrain and Terrain Denali see no changes.

Acadia/Denali: For 2015, the GMC Acadia and Acadia Denali see no changes.

Yukon/XL/Denali/XL Denali: For 2015, like their Cadillac and Chevrolet siblings, the GMC Yukon lineup is fully redesigned for 2015.

Canyon: For 2015, joined by its Chevrolet Colorado sibling, the GMC Canyon is reintroduced. Unfortunately, a Denali model is not yet planned.Crew Cab models will initially only be available, though Extended Cab models will join the Crew Cab models in early Fall 2014.

Sierra 1500/Denali: For 2015, the new-for-2014 GMC Sierra 1500 and Sierra 1500 Denali get only appearance packages.

Sierra HD/Denali HD: For 2015, like their Chevrolet siblings, the GMC Sierra HD lineup is fully redesigned for 2015, with styling cues from the light-duty GMC Sierra 1500 lineup.

Savanna: For 2015, the GMC Savanna 1500 and the 4.3L V6 are both quietly dropped. Power windows and door locks are now standard on all models. though they can still be deleted for credit. An A/M-F/M stereo with auxiliary audio input jack is now standard on the LS (1LS) Passenger Van.

2015 Ford and Lincoln Model Changes

Let’s take a look at what’s new for Ford and Lincoln vehicles for 2015:

FORD:

Fiesta/ST: All-new for 2014, the Ford Fiesta doesn’t get any changes for 2015.

Focus/Electric/ST: For 2015, the Ford Focus gets a mid-cycle restyling with a new front end, new tire and wheel combinations, and a revised interior. A three-cylinder turbocharged EcoBoost engine is due to debut midyear 2015.

Fusion/Hybrid/Energi: For 2015, the Ford Fusion gets little changes. The base S model trades its sixteen-inch steel wheels with wheel covers for stylish sixteen-inch alloy wheels.The SE model, when equipped with the 2.0L EcoBoost Turbocharged I4 engine, gets standard eighteen-inch sport-style alloy wheels.

Mustang: For 2015, Ford debuts their all-new sixth-generation Mustang, just in time for its 50^TH anniversary, which is commemorated by a 50^TH Anniversary Appearance Package. Also, 1,964 2014.5 Mustangs will be manufactured. Engines carry over from 2014, though a 2.3L EcoBoost turbocharged I4 is new, and the 5.0L V8 gains more power and torque. The Shelby GT500 model is gone for now, but the Shelby GT350 model debuted at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show, which will go on sale in mid 2015 as an early 2016 Model Year vehicle. The Coupe model is renamed the Fastback. Ford SYNC is now standard across all Mustang models, as is SIRIUS-XM Satellite Radio.

C-Max/Energi: While the rest of the world gets a restyled Ford C-Max for 2015, the North American model remains unchanged.

Taurus: For 2015, the Ford Taurus gets no changes, though the Sony premium surround-sound system is no longer standard on the Limited and SHO models. 

Escape: For 2015, the Ford Escape S model gets optional seventeen-inch alloy wheels.A new SE Chrome Edition Package adds exclusive nineteen-inch chrome-plated alloy wheels, chrome door and tailgate handles, and chrome mirror caps, as well as chrome front fascia accents and chrome-accented roof rails, to the base SE model. An SE Leather Package now allows SE buyers to have powered and heated leather seating surfaces on the model. The Sony Premium Sound System is now no longer available on the SE model. Eighteen-inch chrome-plated alloy wheels from the Titanium model are now available on the SE model, regardless of package choices.

Edge: For 2015, Ford unveiled its all-new second-generation Ford Edge, which will go on sale in early 2015.

Explorer: For 2015, the Ford Explorer gets little changes; though the Base model trades its eighteen-inch steel wheels with wheel covers for the eighteen-inch alloy wheels found on the XLT model. The 2015 Explorer will have a short production run, though, as a newly-restyled 2016 model, which debuted at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show, offering a new 2.3L EcoBoost Turbocharged I4 engine and a new Platinum model with unique features, will go on sale in mid-2015.

Flex: For 2015, the Ford Flex doesn’t get any changes.

Expedition/EL: For 2015, the Ford Expedition and Expedition EL get their first restyling since their 2007 introduction, but the biggest news is the introduction of a new 3.5L EcoBoost supercharged V6 to replace the 5.4L Triton V8 previously available.

Transit Connect: Redesigned last year, the 2015 Ford Transit Connect gets no changes.

Transit: Proven successful in Europe for six decades, the Ford Transit replaces the Ford E-Series for 2015, which hadn’t been redesigned since 1992, as hard as it is to believe. Three engines are available: a 3.5L naturally-aspirated V6, a 3.7L EcoBoost turbocharged V6, and a Power Stroke 3.5L turbocharged I5.

E-Series: For 2015, the Ford E-Series has been discontinued, replaced by the Ford Transit.

F-150: For 2015, the Ford F-150 is fully redesigned, and is now in its twelfth generation. Offering three engine choices, an aluminum construction (the frame is still steel, of course), and more options to choose from, the new F-150 should be a hit.

F-Series Super Duty and Chassis Cabs: For 2015, the Ford F-Series Super Duty and Chassis Cabs are improved, with an improved King Ranch model and more power and torque for the 6.7L Power Stroke turbocharged diesel V8.

LINCOLN:

MKZ: For 2015, the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is no longer priced the same as the standard gasoline-only MKZ models.A new 'Lincoln Black Label Collection' allows an MKZ buyer to choose from additional exterior colors with unique interior color schemes, and four unique 'collections'. Buyers of these vehicles also get concierge services not regularly offered to Lincoln buyers, including restaurant reservations, in-home delivery, and personalized service options.

MKS: For 2015, the Lincoln MKS is not expected to get any changes.                    

MKC: The Lincoln MKC is an all-new vehicle for 2015, based on the Ford Escape. As Lincoln’s first compact SUV, the MKC is the least expensive Lincoln model offered, and provides the luxury features that even the Ford Escape Titanium doesn’t offer. The 'Black Label Collection' allows an MKC buyer to choose from additional exterior colors with unique interior color schemes, and four unique 'collections'. Buyers of these vehicles also get concierge services not regularly offered to Lincoln buyers, including restaurant reservations, in-home delivery, and personalized service options.

MKX: For 2016, the Lincoln MKX, like its Ford Edge sibling, enters its second generation, and will go on sale in Spring 2015. In the meantime, the 2015 MKX gets additional options and packages and a lower starting MSRP. The 2015 MKX will have a short production run as production of the 2016 MKX starts up in early 2015.

MKT: For 2015, the Lincoln MKT gets no changes.

Navigator/L: For 2015, like their Ford Expedition and Expedition EL siblings, the Lincoln Navigator and Navigator L get their first restyling since their 2007 introduction, but the 5.4L Triton V8 that was previously available is now replaced by a  new 3.5L EcoBoost turbocharged V6.