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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  Really Very Happy - 2010 Ford Escape
  By bshotts - November 20 - 2:00 am

  I have an XLS with the 6 speed automatic. This vehicle is an excellent value for the money. Its very comfortable (Im 63") with an excellent rear seat and cargo room. I have experienced remarkable fuel economy (well over 30 MPG highway, about 20 city) and have experienced no problems whatsoever. Visibility is outstanding (particularly if you remove the rear head restraints as some other reviewers have done).

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  Hard Pressed to Find One Better - 2002 Ford Escape
  By JSampson - November 12 - 2:00 am

  4 cyl 5 spd model @ 80k now: Bought used with 38k on it. Im very meticulous about car issues and I have noticed only a couple things that have needed attention over the years. In my mind these issues are less about Ford and more about components manufactured in Asia (Id bet). 1. Idle Air Control Valve needs some cleaning/replacement after 75k miles or so and is a total pain to get to. 2. DPEF sensor craps out about the same time. Neither one ever left me stranded or were $$$ but did create an erratic idle at times. Outside of that, absolutely nothing has gone wrong. Engine has adequate power and has returned 25 mpg avg, consistently. Handling and braking even w/o all discs is good.

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  Love it - 2011 Ford Escape
  By chpoz - November 11 - 2:00 am

  I have no complaints with my limited v-6. It has every whistle/bell that I want. It all works perfectly. The ride is good and quiet with comfort. I think edmunds reviews missed the boat or they prefer a new design each and every year. If it aint broke dont fix it. Great vehicle on my part.

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  Great so far - 2007 Ford Escape
  By Rob - October 31 - 2:00 am

  I have owned this vehicle for 2 months now, I am pleased with it. Bought it with 32,000 miles, it is in excellent condition, it is an xlt but has several "sport" options, has the audiophile 6 cd changer with the 7 speakers. Mileage seems better than the van I had, the ride of course is a little stiffer though, the moonroof is neat, Continental "conti trac tires are noisy, will chg at 50k, my wife and I are both glad to be back in a Ford, Ford took the "high road", no bailout, and it has sure paid off.

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  Awesome - 2001 Ford Escape
  By BC Prosser - October 24 - 2:00 am

  Owned this escape since 2001 when it had 0 miles. It now has 235,000 and is still going. Never had any problems, original engine, transmission, clutch, and everything. New front struts/tie rods and brakes at 190k. Replaced the in-dash stereo, but left the speakers, they sound as good as the Bose speakers in our 2007 yukon denali. Vehicle drives great in all conditions, and still looks like new when its clean. The Escape has never let me down, and i hope to rely on it for years to come.

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  Excellent - 2010 Ford Escape
  By Andre Levesque - October 21 - 2:00 am

  My first American car. I had 3 SUVs : Toyota 4 runner and 2 Honda cr-v. My escape is the most fun to drive. Very solid. Great on gas. I love it. I like the "truck" look. I hope Ford will keep the trick look in coming years. I hate SUVs looking like a car on high heels. Bravo Ford.

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  Very Happy - 2010 Ford Escape
  By R. Johnsen - October 14 - 2:00 am

  Replaced my RAV4 with a 6 cyl Escape. To date, Hwy mileage = 25.6 mpg, City driving = just over 20 mpg. No strange noises like some others have experienced and shifting is very smooth. Headlights are very powerful and handling and passing power are more than adequate. Did a 350 mile trip today and found the seats to be totally comfortable. All in all Im very happy.

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  Steppin Up - 2011 Ford Escape
  By Hammertime - October 14 - 2:00 am

  Traded my 2010 XLS for an XLT with the Sun and Sync package. So far it has been a good purchase. Great deal, the 2011 seems to be smoother and quieter than the 2010. Love the Sync system and the fuel economy. The 4 cyl is surprisingly powerful. I dont think Edmunds reviews give this vehicle a fair shake. Test drive it and I am sure you will be surprised!

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  So Far So Good - 2010 Ford Escape
  By sofarsogood - October 9 - 2:00 am

  I have had my car for a year now and I have not had one problem with it. It drives great, handles amazing, and overall I am really happy with it. My dealership is really easy to deal with and I am really glad I bought this car. I never thought I would like an American car! But here I am a year later! couldnt be happier!

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  After One Year of Ownership - 2009 Ford Escape
  By mjm87 - September 29 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my 2009 Ford Escape XLT AWD in June of 2009. Ever since then, I have enjoyed every minute being in my Escape. The visibility of the Escape is excellent, the 4 cylinder engine puts out plenty of horsepower to get you where you need to go, the 6-speed transmission shifts smoothly, it is easy to park, and has some of the best technology compared to any vehicle on the road. It has been to dealership once for a PCM flash for the transmissions occasional hard shifting from drive to reverse. That problem has gone away and the vehicle shifts much better than before. The SYNC system is outstanding and I personally find the AC unit to be one of the best I have ever experienced. Great buy