Escape: yes or no

There are now about 7,456,789 choices for a small SUV type vehicle. My finances limit me to a couple of choices. The Escape is one. I would like to buy a 4 cly '05 or '06 2wd. Is the 2wd a conventional rear wd? Or is is it front wd? References to spark plug changes on 6 cyls. suggest a transverse engine setup. Is this a reliable vehicle? I do not care about excelleration, 4 cyls. is fine.

I have the 2004 Escape with 6-cyl automatic.
That six is more engine than needed for regular, daily use. Too easy to speed through those 25 mph zones without intending - it's a quick engine. Might get a few mpg's with the four too.
The Escapes seem to be quite reliable too.
Oh yeah, the 2WD is front wheel driven - it's good on ice and snow with premium tires.

Thanks for response and info.

No problem. Let us know what you decide. If you get the 4 cylinder, I'd be interested in knowing what the power/pickup is like and MPG capability is.