I have a 2002 Escape that also came with Continentals, and mine were so stiff-riding, noisy, and tractionless after 25,000 miles that I started looking around for a suitable replacement. I first considered the Michelin Cross Terrain SUV's, but the local shops didn't have any in stock, but could order them at what I thought was an exorbitant price ($180 each!). I did some "comparison" shopping through user reviews at Tire Rack and other on-line places and decided to go with the Firestone Destination LE's. They were less than 1/2 the price of the Mickey's, so I thought I'd give them a try. Plus, they had a 30 day "if you don't like 'em, we'll take 'em back" policy at the place I bought them. I have ~6,000 miles on them and I think they're great. They're quiet on all kinds of road, grip like glue even in the rain, and give a noticeably more comfortable ride than the Continentals I replaced.
Happy with my 'stones, SC Tom