We have been privileged over the past year to be able to bring our readers a series of automotive reviews. There is definitely a different perspective seen when you get to test-drive the new car for a period of a week or more. Ford of Canada has stepped up yet again with the all-new line up for 2013, beginning with the completely redesigned 2013 Ford Escape. We will be bringing to you over the next several months a series of reviews which will include both Ford and Lincoln products.

Considering that in the WonderMoms family we already have a 2012 Ford Escape XLT, we can offer a unique look at the differences between new and old. I struggle with saying that the 2012 are old, but when you look at the differences, it is mind-boggling.

The completely new Escape is very futuristic looking, with a more European feel. Gone from last year are the boxy lines, more in keeping with the look you would expect from a truck than a softer feel usually associated with cars.

I especially love the look of the slanted front fascia on the 2013 Escape, much more aerodynamic than the 2012. It no doubt adds to the noticeable reduction in drag and wind noise. The 2013 Escape is amazingly quiet inside, something you would expect to find in much more expensive vehicles.

I consider myself more of a simple girl; I don't need all the proverbial "bells and whistles" to be impressed by a car. My mindset has always been that a car is just a mode of transportation to get me from point A to point B. However, I know that with all the new features designed around safety and convenience, I could be swayed into liking them on my new vehicle purchase.

The new Escape test car is equipped with Ford's all-new ECO Boost motor. A 1.6 L engine, which produces 178 hp, more than enough for this car. The test vehicle was a more basic unit with just the right amount of gadgets and upgrades for my liking.

Some of the market leading features available include MY Ford Touch, a very intuitive array of helpful convenience features designed to keep your eye on the road while allowing you to make changes to things like stereo, navigation, climate control, trip monitoring and even engine diagnostics. Very cool feature all in a single video screen, located centrally in the dash. You can order Ford's Active Park Assist and have the car park itself for you. There is even an automatic tailgate opening option, simply wave your foot underneath the rear bumper and it will open up so you don't have to put down the heavy bags of groceries. That is the coolest option I have seen thus far.

You also have the option of upgrading to a more powerful ECO Boost motor producing 240 hp. Fuel economy is slightly different in the bigger engine. Both are very impressive though. We estimated our fuel consumption at about 29 mpg for the week.

I must say that between the 2012 Ford Escape XLT and the all-new 2013 test vehicle, the newer version is light years ahead of the older one. If only we could figure a way to have Ford let us keep the new one. I know that that would be wishful thinking, but a girl has to dream. Anyone looking for a compact crossover to carry the kids to school and soccer practice, this car should fall into the "must see" category. It is sure to impress even those who usually only look at the imports. Ford has another winner on their hands. The design team must be very proud of the next generation of Ford Escapes.

Being able to offer a hands-on perspective to those of you thinking of upgrading your vehicle is a lot of fun. I mean, who doesn't love the feel and smell of a new car? I am more than happy to keep testing these new cars. It is hard work, but somebody has got to do it.