Growing up in the shadow of the “Motor City,” there’s a lot of talk about cars. People come from multi-generational “[Ford/GM/Chrysler] Families,” and often have allegiances that run deep enough that you park your import vehicle brands in the street (and ideally out of sight) when Grandpa is coming over. We even frame our corporate meeting “ice breakers” in terms of cars: your first car, your favorite car, your dream car.

Recently, in a large group setting, the question was: if you were a car, what kind of car would you be? Most people answered with iconic vehicles, known for being fast, or rugged, or cool.

My answer to the group: a 2012 Ford Escape.

My rationale:

1. Ford is a deeply American brand, with its World HQ based in Dearborn, MI. I am a deeply American girl, born, raised, and established soundly in Michigan towns that no one outside of the state would know the names of.
   
2. The Escape is a well-rounded, functional SUV, small enough to zip around parking lots but large enough to carry a load; it’s marketed predominantly to women. I am feminine in that I am… you know, a female, but otherwise consider myself also very well-rounded and highly-functional in terms of physical stature and capability.
   
3. I specifically chose the 2012 model year because, while I very much like the look of the 2012 Escape, it is a far cry from current anymore. Similarly, I am – forever, and without fail – a far cry from current. I average 5 years behind any trend, as evinced by my belated entry into podcasts, excited usage of emojis long after they were old news, and delayed reaction to any fashion swings such that by the time I notice a trend, it is assuredly on its way out.

I’m curious to know: what kind of car would you be?