Overview & Reviews

The 2005 Ford Escape gets a freshened look and some new mechanicals. Last year's base 2.0-liter engine is replaced by a new 153-horsepower, 2.3-liter, four-cylinder engine that's available with either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission. This new engine is a more viable choice for budget-conscious buyers, and like the V6, it can be matched with a new electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system. Meanwhile, the V6 engine has been tweaked to provide improved throttle response. Antilock brakes are now standard across the line. Interior updates include a floor-mounted shifter, new gauges, upgraded seats and additional storage. The most significant improvement inside is the addition of the optional Safety Canopy rollover protection system. Further, the vehicle's structure has been modified to better absorb offset frontal impacts, and the backseat gets a full set of three-point belts. On the outside, all Escapes have reworked front and rear fascias with a new grille design and headlights. Finally, an XLT Sport model joins the lineup.

• Powerful V6, quick and efficient hybrid model, large cargo capacity, comfortable interior, carlike handling, optional side curtain airbags.

• Four-cylinder models feel unrefined at high rpm, so-so interior materials quality.

User Reviews:

Showing 61 through 70 of 391.00

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  Escape 4x4 - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Damian - January 21 - 11:33 am

  The bad thing, you need to check your blind spots at least twice. Dont be in a hurry. If you are 6 and heavy set, this is not the car for you. Other than this, great look, excellent power house and handling.

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  Moderate Enthusiasm for Escape Hybrid - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Jean - January 10 - 12:10 pm

  I now have 5000 miles on my Escape hybrid. Gas mileage is great (about 33 combined) but vehicle seems plasticy. Seats are very uncomfortable, interior cheap plastic throughout. Lots of rattles. Amenities available are few. Air conditioning system needs improved engineering. It handles well though and is agile. Fairly smooth ride for a small SUV. For the cost it should be a nicer, smoother vehicle that seems stable and well built - so I have some disappointment.

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  went back for a second one - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Terence&Lori Keith - January 8 - 7:44 am

  This is our second Escape. Our 2002 model XLT was flawless and it fit our needs perfectly on the back roads of VT. We found that it held value and wanted to try the new model with the intelligent 4WD system . So far it has been excellent, great on all types of road conditions, spacious cabin and a car like feeling driving it. As of this review I look forward to another improved Escape in the future.

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  2005 Ford Escape - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Mark Williams - November 22 - 4:43 pm

  This truck was nicely updated from previous models. It handles beautifully and "feels" safe to drive.

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  Great alternative to a Jeep - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Moshe - November 8 - 6:23 am

  I purchased the Escape becuase of its AWD and new 2.3L-auto combo- and I am very happy with the performance of the Escape on wet roads- no wheel slipping or skidding - hope winter driving is just as much fun. I work for Chrysler and decided to save the $8,000 difference for a Jeep- I dont need a "trail rated" 15 mpg SUV. Cant be beat for $18,000 and change after the $2000 rebate (lowered to $1500 in November)

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  ford - 2005 Ford Escape
  By spieth - November 1 - 2:00 am

  It is a good car and does well in the sand and in the dirt

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  My Ford Escape - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Desiree - September 1 - 12:50 am

  So far, very happy with vehicle. Very responsive, gas mileage not bad if you drive sensibly. (I average 20 mpg which is a combination of mostly city and some highway driving). Air Conditioner works very well! Stereo system pretty good as well. Perfect sized vehicle for my needs. Vehicle has firm ride.

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  Nice ride - 2005 Ford Escape
  By EVELYN - August 28 - 8:50 pm

  This Ford Escape has been a pleasant experience for me. It rides comfortably on long trips. It has room and I like the way it lets you lay the seats for comfort. I like everything about this Escape

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  Thought I was buying a small SUV - 2005 Ford Escape
  By bensgranpa - June 15 - 10:00 am

  Handles well and easy to drive. Engine noise apparent. Interior so-so. Performance very good:good braking and engine performance. Good looking. But I thought I was buying a small SUV, not a full size Hummer. Have yet to get more than 12 mpg in city driving. Our big Honda Odyssey gets much better mileage both in town and on the road. And that matters now that it takes $27.00 to fill up with regular.

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  Warning! Faulty Left front Strut - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Big Dan - November 25 - 1:30 am

  Bought it in Jan. 05. We love it! However from the beginning a thump has been heard coming from area of left front-end. A road trip to Scott City, Kansas revealed more noise. A terrific dealership there determined the left strut may have been improperly mounted when the car was built by manufacturer. They replace and corrected mount and everything has been perfect since. The next time we trade Im taking the Escape and buying my wife a new one.