I don't know how long it's been since you were a mechanic but things that have changed:
Small cars have engine compartments that pack a lot more stuff in. And often the manufacturers design for the home market.
My meathooks can't even get to some replaceable parts of my vehicles (like headlight bulbs) , whereas my 5' tall wife can easily access the item.
I had a '79 VW Rabbit that to change the oil filter I could kneel down in front of it, reach up behind the radiator with a 3-Jaw Oil Filter Wrench and undo the filter. EZPZ. The filter was pointed down with easy access.
On the 2019 Ford Escape the filter for the 2.0 liter Ecoboost is oriented about the same. The smaller engines have it mounted horizontal amongst a bunch of hoses, and looks like a royal pain o service.