THE Escape sits its V6 engine transversely in the engine bay and like many compact off-roaders primarily powers its front wheels most of the time. When slippage is detected, the Control Trac II 4WD system transfers torque via a rotary blade coupling to the rear wheels to help regain grip. A switch on the instrument panel can be used to engage the 4WD lock-up feature, resulting in a 50:50 torque split.