Overview & Reviews

Since its introduction, the Ford Escape has been one of America's best-selling small crossover SUVs. Considering how many other vehicles are available in this segment (many of them well established before the Escape's debut), this may come as a bit of a surprise. But Ford has a keen knack for designing SUVs that appeal to a wide range of buyers.

With the original Escape, Ford successfully combined the styling and four-wheel-drive capability of a traditional SUV with the size, practicality and driving characteristics of a midsize car. For the urban dweller in need of something comfortable, versatile, fun to drive and capable of doing some light-duty off-roading or towing, it fills the bill perfectly. Of course, the Escape's affordability certainly boosted its appeal as well.

Although it received a significant freshening for 2008 that brought notable improvements to the interior, the Escape soldiered on with its original platform until 2013's complete redesign. The latter rebirth vaulted the Escape toward the front of the compact crossover class, as it offers an appealing combination of styling, performance, fuel efficiency, features and comfort. Prior to that overhaul, however, many rival compact SUVs offered more refinement as well as a more rewarding driving experience.

Current Ford Escape
The current Ford Escape stands as one of the top entries in the very competitive compact crossover segment. There are three trim levels: S, SE and Titanium. The S comes with full power accessories, air-conditioning, the Sync voice command system, a rearview camera and a six-speaker sound system. Highlights of the SE include a turbocharged engine, keyless entry keypad, a power driver seat and satellite radio. The Escape Titanium further adds keyless ignition/entry, the MyFord Touch electronics interface, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, heated front seats and an upgraded sound system.

Many of the higher trims' features are available on the lower trims, while other options include a power panoramic sunroof, a power liftgate, a navigation system and a Parking Technology package (with automated parallel-parking assist and front and rear parking sensors).

Under the hood is a choice of three engines, all matched to a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional. Base Escapes come with a 168-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder. Standard on the SE and Titanium is a turbocharged 1.6-liter, 178-hp four-cylinder. The most powerful engine is an optional turbocharged 2.0-liter, 240-hp four-cylinder engine. The 1.6 flies the fuel-sipper flag while the 2.0 offers performance on par with a V6 along with higher fuel economy.

In reviews, the newest Ford Escape has impressed our staff with its well-rounded road manners. The 2.5 and 1.6 engines provide adequate thrust, while the 2.0 is downright spirited. The latter flattens hills with less effort than the other two and is quieter and smoother to boot. The Escape can confidently tackle a winding road and the ride, though on the firm side, is compliant enough to take the edge off the bumps and ruts of poorly maintained city streets. Downsides to the new Ford Escape include an unexpectedly high price when fitted with options and the MyFord Touch interface, which is finicky to use.

Used Ford Escape Models
Sharing its basic platform with the highly regarded Focus, the latest Ford Escape debuted for the 2013 model year. Compared to earlier Escapes, it boasts roomier seating, higher-quality materials and a second-row seat that's much easier to fold down compared to before. The latest engine selection and features debuted at this time as well. Since then, there have been only minor updates. In that debut year, Ford offered an intermediate SEL trim level and had the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine as standard for the Titanium.

The second-generation Ford Escape was produced from 2008 through 2012. Changes over the first Escape were limited to interior and exterior design. The body adopted Ford's newer styling themes seen in the Edge and Expedition, while the cabin offered a more contemporary look with improved ergonomics and more available luxury features.

The three popular trim levels -- XLS, XLT and Limited -- were once again offered. Standard feature highlights on the XLS included full power accessories, cruise control, air-conditioning and stability control. The XLT added automatic headlights, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and a power driver seat, while the Limited provided leather upholstery and heated front seats. Option highlights, depending on the year, included dual-zone automatic climate control, rear parking sensors, a navigation system and an automated parallel-parking system.

Any Escape could be had with either front- or all-wheel drive. Engine choices were carried over from the previous generation initially, meaning a choice of the 153-hp four-cylinder or the 200-hp V6, and both ran through a four-speed automatic transmission. For 2009 the powertrains were improved greatly, as the four-cylinder made 171 hp while the V6 pumped out 240 hp. Although a five-speed manual transmission could be had on the XLS, it's a rarity and as such, nearly all Escapes used a six-speed automatic. There was also a hybrid version of the Escape, which is covered in a separate review.

In reviews, we've found this Escape's strengths to be its wealth of high-tech features and peppy performance. Downsides included poor braking performance, an awkward-to-fold rear seat and a somewhat dated feel compared to newer rivals. That said, this generation of the Escape (as well as its Mazda Tribute and Mercury Mariner twins) remains worthy of shoppers interested in a well-rounded compact crossover.

The Ford Escape was introduced in 2001, and its basic exterior and interior design remained unchanged through '07. It was initially available in XLS, XLT and XLT Sport trims that were joined by the leather-lined Limited a few years later. Ford Escapes were equipped with a rather anemic base engine – a 2.0-liter four that made 130 hp -- until '05 when it was replaced by a 2.3-liter four that made 153 hp. This first-generation Escape also offered an optional V6 that made 200 hp. Although the four-cylinder engines could have a five-speed manual, most had the optional four-speed automatic that was standard on the V6.

Considering how many of these Escapes were sold, shoppers should have plenty of opportunities to be choosy and find a used model that suits them. First-year Escapes were tarnished by numerous recall notices. Though likely resolved at this point, going with a 2002 or newer model might be a good idea. Potential buyers of this first generation of Escape should note that its interior materials were of poor quality, with cheap, hard plastics everywhere.

User Reviews:

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  Escape Hybrid Seen in LA - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Mark - May 3 - 10:46 pm

  Within hours of the announcement, I was aware that Ford was going to produce a Escape Hybrid. Well, their Kansas City Assembly Plant did produce a well built vehicle, beautiful vehicle that delivers great gas mileage. The Hybrid has indeed delivered on its promise of improved gas mileage, but as usual not to the EPA specs. The vehicle is so quiet that pedestrians are unaware it is running. My dealership recognized that the premiums other dealers were demanding was killing sales; I got mine without the premium. Unlike others I did not have to wait, picked mine on the lot on day of visit. All that and it looks better than a Prius.

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  Overallest Small SUV - 2005 Ford Escape
  By kenstar23 - April 28 - 2:00 am

  I test drove a number of small SUVs in this class, and recently drove a Jeep Liberty for a week on a vacation. The Ford is more refined than the Jeep and makes better use of interior space. The Jeeps engine was slightly underpowered as is the Escapes...a bit more HP would help both. I was disappointed with the Jeeps mileage, only a bit more than 20 MPG. These were the two highest on my list for consideration. I chose the Escape. Ive owned two Ford trucks previously and have had no reliability issues, actually no problems whatsoever.

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  I Love the 2008 Escape - 2008 Ford Escape
  By Mike - April 27 - 4:26 am

  I looked at several other Ford options including the Edge and opted for the 2008 Escape because of the overall lighter vehicle weight and somewhat smaller duratec 4 valve engine. This CUV is really excellent. Great new IP and we have the Sun and Sound package with satellite radio and a plug-in for my iPod. It is awesome. There is loads of places to put things with the Rear Cargo Convenience package. The center console has a drop-in insert that holds audio/cell phone stuff. When you remove this insert you can put lesser used items in the space just below the insert. Maps fit very well in map pockets. It handles very well and has RSC, roll stability standard.

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  No more Fords for me - 2002 Ford Escape
  By kathy - April 26 - 11:23 pm

  I love driving my Escape. I am short and can see out of it better than anything Ive driven before. The electrical problems are driving me crazy. After many visits to the dealer, they finally found that caulk had come loose and I had a gallon of water on my fuse box. Supposedly resealed and replaced the fuse box. Two months later I had it back in for the same problems, radio going off and on by itself, even when car is off, horn going off, trouble lights on for no reason. Said they cant find any problems and gave it back to me unfixed. Have contacted Ford and they wont do anything to help, so am buying a Honda on Monday. Im sorry to say that Ford has lost another customer.

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  ESCAPE - 2001 Ford Escape
  By DZIENIS - April 26 - 10:00 am

  FUN TO DRIVE, A LITTLE WIND NOISE, GOOD LOOKS,

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  Fun in Wheels - 2005 Ford Escape
  By rvkolako - April 23 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my Escape for a short time, but I love it! It has great room inside, compared to other suvs in its class. The ride is awsome, and its a quiet car. THE V-6 engine is responsive. Ive previously owned toyotas, so I was surprised that the interior quality is every bit as good as japanes cars. The escape handles very well and you always feel in control. Anyone whos looking for a small suv , would be silly not to check out this american gem!

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  Solid Performer - 2002 Ford Escape
  By Dave - April 23 - 9:34 am

  I bought my Escape new and drove it for six plus years. I wanted some of the conveniences (space, height and 4wd) of driving an SUV but was not willing to pay where the next size was priced, did not want horrendous MPG and back in 2002 most large SUV’s still felt like driving a pickup truck. I got what I paid for it was a no thrills solid performer. The car was only in the shop twice for two minor recalls and the well known air sensor. I had the cd changer issue and the moon roof switch that was a pain but I did not ever get annoyed when it happened. It was a great drive as acceleration was excellent and the handling and feel of the SUV felt like I was driving a car.

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  So far, so good - 2007 Ford Escape
  By mfish - April 13 - 9:53 am

  With a new baby on the way, needed to trade our Silverado pickup for a more baby-friendly vehicle. Grew up with the Fords of the late 80s-early 90s and swore I wouldnt drive another Ford, but now I own one--Im surprised at how much I like it. Opted for the 5-speed and can get up to 29 mpg on trips. The four cylinder is so quiet, I sometimes cant hear the RPMs to know when to shift (no idiot shift light to help). The engine is also very spirited that I fins myself speeding without knowing! Im 65" and fit fine in back seat with front seat all the way back. Interior a little plastic-y, but I like the look better than 2008 Escape. Though Ive only had it for a month, I like it.

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  2002 Ford Escape XLS - 2002 Ford Escape
  By C L B - April 10 - 1:01 pm

  Purchased this vehicle used (end of lease). Excellent condition. Ran into problems with manual transmission, idler bearing self-destructed. 3 weeks to replace, but local dealership was extremely accomodating. This sort of failure should simply not happen with a manual transmission.

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  Extremely happy with this terrific SUV - 2002 Ford Escape
  By Jason ESi-T - April 9 - 2:53 pm

  So far, I have nothing but good things to say about this vehicle. The car always gets stares from people, and keeps me looking back at it when I walk away. Its the first SUV Ive bought, and so far, its everything Ive expected. Weve just had a bad week of ice/snow, and the SUV has again proved its worth. The poor gas mileage was expected, but the sheer delight of owning this fabulous automobile was definitely a pleasant surprise.