It is but the 2.0 shit the bed with the coolant intrusion problem.

I mean, I could be wrong, but I believe the 2.5 hybrid in the escape and maverick is the same setup that's been around for well over a decade, and has proven itself to be insane reliable. 

Wait a minute, 'fordauthority' might have it wrong.  Essex might be building the 6.8L along with the 7.3L, not the Powerstroke.   https://windsorstar.com/news/local-news/ford-begins-prep-work-for-new-engine-line-at-essex-engine

Given the ubiquity of the Explorer Police Interceptor, I don’t think any departments are scared of the complexity of the EcoBoosts or the Coyote. 

I am not surprised by this move.  When the 6.2L was in production, it was sourced from the Romeo engine plant.  Since it was replaced by the 6.8L, all Super Duty gasoline engine production has come from the Windsor line that produces the 7.3L.  I thought Ford would have a problem keeping up with demand once Oakville starts building Super Duty trucks.  The article also says Essex will produce 6.7L Powerstoke diesels, that's the first I have heard of that.  Now the question is will these engines be subject to tariffs.....   https://fordauthority.com/2025/01/new-ford-v8-production-line-being-added-to-essex-engine-plant/ 

Sperlich left quite a legacy.  The Mustang, the Fiesta, Chrysler K-car, the Chrysler minivan.  That's quite the epitaph to leave on a tombstone.  RIP.  

My wifes 2017 Escape went 127K miles before selling it and the only issue was the rear lift gate motor needed to be replaced. Her 2010 actually had more issues with it.    Driving 200K miles is basically owning a car over 15 years old at average distance driven for a car in the US

Interestingly, I have read Hal Sperlich proposed the Fox platform be FWD, probably similar to Chrysler's K car platform, which Sperlich developed. Iacocca and HF II overruled him. I imagine late 70's through mid 80's Ford history would have been a lot different had the Fox platform been FWD. 

Numerous Toyotas and Hondas have a reputation of going 200,000 miles or more with regular maintenance and no major failures.  No Fords, except F series and Panthers, have that reputation. Initial quality awards aren't sufficient. Several service advisors at my local Ford dealer have told me to keep driving my 2010 model because "the new stuff don't (sic) last." The first generation Escape sold well and was reliable, but it also used primarily Mazda components. 

I'm pretty sure KR comes standard with LED headlights, but Platinum will give you projector LEDs IIRC.  Not sure on the fogs, but I believe rears are only LED on Platinum.