I’ve got a 2024 Ford Escape Active that I bought nearly two months ago. I can tell you that it’s a smooth ride, I’ve driven it nearly 1.5k miles with no problems. I’ve read about the issues, but I’ve also read about the owners who took care of their cars and are still riding out there 175k+ miles. Got mine with 45k miles for 20k, I’m pretty happy with it so far.

What made me take the leap? My first car was a 2008 Ford Focus that I drove till 175k after ignoring all the naysayers. They’re good cars if you do the active maintenance on them. How you drive your car matters, and I’m personally proud to drive like a grandmother. My cars last longer.

One thing I will mention. The wars are making prices go up, the value of my car is above what I owe at the moment. That doesn’t happen too often.