We just picked at a 2013 Escape for my wife's DD. We had one for a rental when we were down in FL earlier this year and I was pretty impressed with it. We had a FWD and saw 28ish MPG throughout the trip. This one is AWD and so far it's been in the 24 range. I love the trans, shifting is so smooth and the dang thing is quiet. I still wouldn't give the twins up for it though, lol.
We went camping this weekend and towed a small trailer and 4 wheeler home for one of our friends. It did well with it, didn't seem to notice it was back there.
So far we've tinted the windows and taillights, will probably get rid of the chrome on the sides as well.
Definitely will tune it if and when SCT comes out with their stuff and a few other things. One thing for sure is the floor mats need replaced, those stockers S U C K!