Most notable among the changes for 2008 is the new front design treatment. Intended to mimic the "bold" (think Ford might be overusing the word a bit?) face of the brand's Explorer and full-size trucks, the prominent chrome grille is used to impart a sense of power, while restyled swept back headlights add a contemporary flair. The flanks and tail have been tweaked a bit, though they remain undeniably Escape, and the wheel wells can be filled with new 17-inch alloys. Hybrid models get their own unique badging.