You're correct, the Ford Escape is the same as the Mazda Tribute, different
badges, different trim.

It is a smaller SUV and, as such, doesn't have near the luggage capacity of
an Explorer, Durango, Tahoe, or any of the family 18-wheelers like the
Expedition. But I am able to put in 2 large suitcases, 1 medium, 2
"overnight" bags, my notebook, my tabletop tool kit, and a utility case with
other tools, tape, light, etc. that I might need for an emergency (should
one arise) when my girlfriend and I vacation. All of this fits below the top
of the back seat with the back seat up. On the floor in the back seat, I
usually put a small 12-pack-size cooler with ice and water, and a bag with
snacks and stuff for easy accessibility while driving. I got my Escape for
the main reason that it is a smaller SUV, and it holds plenty for what I
need it for. I moved up to it from a Ford Probe and a Mitsu Eclipse, so the
room difference for me was a lot. There are times I wish I had a larger
cargo area, such as when I need some lumber, but even if I had an F-350, I'd
be willing to bet that I'd need something larger at one time or another.
All in all, the Escape suits my needs, and I am extremely pleased with the
size, handling, and mileage.

SC Tom

History seems to support that the Tribute was designed by Mazda from the
626 chassis.  The magazines all said so at introduction time.  Some Ford
say that they are all wrong.

Just aws the current 2.3 liter engine is directly from Mazda.  The fact
that Ford has built an engine of similar displacement in the past doesn't
mean much.