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 71 through 80 of 391.00

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  First 3,000 miles - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Double L - October 17 - 1:16 pm

  The driving experience is unlike any other. I have owned two other SUVs, (98 Jeep Grand Cherokee & 02 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer.) This is closer in size to the Jeep. It lacks the power that I was used to in the Expedition, however on 15 gals of gas I can go 150 miles further. Thats what it is all about now. $3.00/gallon gas is just around the corner. Acceleration is strange. The engine will rev-up but you dont move ahead proportionally. It almost feels like a slipping clutch on a standard transmission. That is normal in this vehicle. Braking is also different as the regenerative system provides the stopping down until 12 mph, then the calipers kick in. It handles well in the snow and cold. Learning more every day.

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  Escape Hybrid - 2005 Ford Escape
  By jknaul - June 16 - 10:53 pm

  Combined city/highway driving, I am averaging 32 miles/gallon. In city I have averaged about 35 miles to the gallon. This is more than I expected, even with its rating of 36 city, 31 Highway.

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  Initial Impressions - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Bulwark102 - May 26 - 2:00 am

  Just purchased a fully loaded 2005 Escape Limited 4x4. The early 2005 was purchased $350 over invoice. My first impression is this is a solid and good looking vehicle. The engine is powerful and responsiveness is acceptable, but I found other vehicles I test drove (such as the Honda CR-V) were a bit more agile. The engine is loud at higher RPMs and the automatic transmission feels sluggish as it searches and engages the next gear. I feel very comfortable with the interior styling, indicators and controls. I will follow-up after my first 10K miles.

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  Among the best compact SUVs - 2005 Ford Escape
  By CarnutWZ - March 28 - 10:00 am

  So far this vehicle has suprised me since day 1. The ride is firm but never jarring and the V6 really moves the SUV with some authority. Highway cruising is a breeze as the engine loafs at 2500RPM at 80MPH. The ride comfort on moderatley smooth roads comes at the expense of a little body lean in quick turns.. although handling is ultimately secure if your not trying to zip around a corner at excessive speed. I test drove a few competitors and found they came up short in more areas. Cargo space is versatile and just big enough for my family and luggage.(I have one child). There is no wonder why Escape is the best selling small SUV. With the HEV coming..there is more of a reason to buy

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  Ecstatic Ford Lover - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Bridgitte. - March 28 - 10:00 am

  I love my new SUV. I am a very tall person so the head room is beyond exceptional. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone with small children. My daughter loves the back seat. She can see everything now.

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  Mileage not up to expectations - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Ann - March 22 - 2:33 am

  I have been driving my hybrid Escape for 2 months. I love how it handles and accelerates but I have been disappointed in other features. The gas mileage is rated at 29 to 32 mpg. The highest I have gotten so far is 24.6 mpg for any city/highway combination. Ford has said it takes 10,000 miles of driving to "break it in". I paid a lot of extra money for the high mileage feature and now may not get what I paid for. Also, the interior fabric and door covering is of a lesser quality. Mine was wrinkled and I had to take it to the dealer to be steamed. I love the low emissions and the way it drives. If the mileage increases, I would recommend it to anyone who wants a midsize SUV.

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  My Hybrid - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Halle - March 16 - 1:06 pm

  The Escape Hybrid looks great, is comfortable to drive and gets great gas mileage compared to my last suv. I wish the fit and finish were a little better. Quality of materials on the inside is on the cheap side but still looks ok. Ford skimped on things like lighted vanity mirrors, auto door locks and more convenient audio controls. Apparently the Escape has a few common defects which are disappointing that Ford continues to ship them without resolving the problems (seat belt sensors and air bag module). My new car sat at the dealer for 6 days during my first month waiting for a part. Now it is happening again. Also a problem with brake rotors.

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  Nice Little Ride - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Mustang Dude - October 14 - 10:00 am

  This car is a fun SUV. It can hold lots of cargo as well as people. The motor is very peppy and seems to want to go with little effort. I love the new headlights on the 2005 as well as the new center floor shifter.

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  so far so good - 2005 Ford Escape
  By stumagoo - August 27 - 2:33 pm

  Not that much of a downgrade (roomwise) from my Explorer Sport. Handles good, blast package worth the money for the sound system. Not tons of power but knew that was an issue before buying (better on gas). Average 20-21 mpg with 24 being the best with just over 3000 miles on vehicle.

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  Enjoyment - 2005 Ford Escape
  By freiberg - August 22 - 12:20 pm

  With only 1100 miles, the fuel economy is between 18 and 21 all city driving. With the 3L V6 it is more than responsive for a small SUV and is just a lot of fun to drive. Agility is another quality that I truly enjoy in rush hour traffic.