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 41 through 50 of 391.00

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  A great compact SUV - 2005 Ford Escape
  By LILG410 - November 22 - 10:00 am

  It is the perfect size-- compact enough for the petite driver yet roomy enough for the average male.

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  Love it! - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Billabongguy - November 18 - 8:11 pm

  I bought my Escape when i was thinking about buying a Kia Sorrento. I decided on the Escape because it had better creature comforts, nicer interior, and a lot more power! That little 3.0 with 220hp is fast responsive and I love it. I love the Mach audio system with the sub in the back. It thumps hard.

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  Ford Escape Hybrid is a Plus - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Barry - November 12 - 7:13 pm

  I purchased the Ford Escape Hybrid one month ago and the mpg has been about what Ford said it would be. 33 on the highway and about 37 mpg in the city. It handles well and is a pleasure to drive. As gas prices continue to soar, my decision to purchase the Hybrid looks better and better!

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  Driving an SUV - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Violet Brooks - October 16 - 5:16 am

  I like the size of the SUV, the gas mileage and it is SO MUCH fun to drive

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  Great for the money - 2005 Ford Escape
  By SUVChick - October 5 - 10:00 am

  I shopped around for an SUV for a few months, visinting all the major competitors and I think I got the best deal with the Escape. Its comparable to the other SUVs out there and more reasonably priced.

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  Escape, Fantastic - 2005 Ford Escape
  By TONY - August 14 - 6:13 am

  So far the only complaint I have is when its get dirty! This is one heck of an SUV. I love this Ford Escape. Very strong, yet very car like. Handles very well, tight. Im 62 and very comfortable with the power seating. Controls are fine for me. Good Job Ford!

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  2005 Ford Escape XLS Auto - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Richard Hawkins - August 4 - 9:33 pm

  The car has more pep than I expected, considering that it is a 4 cylinder automatic. Having previously owned an Explorer, I thought that this car would tend to lean in tight turns, because it appears to be high centered. My experience, so far, has been very positive regarding handling. I look forward to many miles of satisfying driving. Also, its good to know that if I want to haul something fairly large, this car will handle the task.

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  Love it - 2005 Ford Escape
  By erica27 - July 17 - 8:56 pm

  I have had my Escape for almost a year and a half and I absolutely love it! I am a senior in college and its everything and more I could want in a car! My previous vehicles were sedans and the Escape drives like a car, but I love sitting higher in traffic and would not trade this car for anything! I hit a deer a few months ago and I know that I would have been injured if I were in a sedan. It is so spacious. I am now the designated driver on road trips, but its well worth it because all my friends love the car too and we all fit comfortably! I plan on graduating college and heading off into the real world in this vehicle!

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  Almost the best car I have ever had - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Lefthandedlex - July 17 - 4:20 pm

  Retirement age is in sight so I have had quite a few cars to compare to. In 3 years I put almost 62000 miles. It is an automatic 4 cyl AWD. It is peppy I have gotten 31 mpg on rare occasions but usually 28 on avg. Except for normal maint it has only seen the dealership once for a very minor issue. Took a long weekend trip almost 5 hours one way with 4 adults and the roof rack stuffed to the gills and still got 25 mpg. Only thing I miss is leather seats. The cloth seats stain easy but so far nothing that I could not get out. Looking forward to another 60000 at least.

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  Hot little car! - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Tina Ver - July 17 - 10:00 am

  I ve only had the car for a month but I love it....it handles great and has lots of get-up-and-go. (Great V6 engine) I like the optional ways you can put in cargo...via door or window. The controls are all within easy reach...which was a problem for me before now. You can adjust everything quickly...and easily. You can easily get in and out of the car ....no stooping or gyrating to get in ....or hoisting yourself up to get out.