 After four years of searching for an eventual replacement for our 2002 RAV4 (it simply will not die), we wanted more power, some luxury and modern safety features, all at a good price.   We had test driven the Tiguan, Q3, Q5, RDX, CX-5, Forrester XT, Outback, X1, and X3.  The only one that we really liked was the BMW X3, but we didn't feel like paying $45k+ for the privilege.  We tried a 2.0l 4wd Titanium Escape with the 301A package, moonroof, and navigation and (with incentives) were out the door for under $30k.  The Escape is quiet, fast, very comfortable and luxurious, is fun to drive, and has all the capabilities we wanted in a relatively compact package.  Gas mileage has been approx 25 mpg in mixed driving.  Time will tell if it will be as reliable as we hope, but so far we can't fault it or the value.UPDATE 9000 miles: Above still applies with a few niggles: 1)  not as much fun to drive as I had hoped as steering is heavy above 5 mph and much more boost at hwy speeds would be nice; 2) lack of upfront cubbies is annoying at times; and 3) front passenger seat doesn't go flat which affects the lengths of wood and sizes of furniture that can be carried on weekend Home Depot, IKEA runs.Update 40000 miles: a few more niggles; 1) it still has great power but gas mileage overall now 21.5 mpg; 2) front driver's seat bottom not comfortable for out of town trips; 3) drives like a truck with a stiff ride, heavy steering; 4) a rear wheel bearing went out at 10,000 miles 5) any time it is near freezing and wet, annoying transient and unidentifiable suspension/drive train  noises make themselves known.  I am starting to search for a smaller, smoother, more nimble crossover.