I have an '05 Escape. I love it. It was exactly what I wanted in terms of size, gas mileage (although that was when gas was $1+ cheaper!), and looks. We've had zero problems with it and I still love that car everytime I get in it. The seats fold down so that the back end is open and flat, it can take a roof rack (I use a little step stool for easy access).

My car is an automatic, although our other vehicle is a stick.