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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  Ford Escape - 2006 Ford Escape
  By Ford Escape - May 4 - 1:00 pm

  We really like our Escape. It is fun to drive. We would like it better if it were just a little bit bigger. At least big enough so five people could ride in it and be comfortable. We could get five people in it but the one in the middle of the back seat wouldnt be really comfortable. Also we would like it better if the doors locked automatically when the vehicle is started. This is a feature that we think should be added. Overall we are pleased with our Escape. Of course we havent had it long enough or driven it enough miles to encounter any major problems. I hope it is reliable enough that we never have any major problems with it. Time will tell.

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  No Problems - 2001 Ford Escape
  By Mach72 - April 30 - 11:46 am

  I love this SUV and was a little scared to by a car made in the USA, after all the horror stories you hear. PROS: I have not had one problem with this SUV. Its the perfect size for the city and has loads of space with the rear seats down to haul all kinds STUFF. It looks great after almost 5 years.No rust or fading paint. I have not taken it off road but have taken it on some pretty rough dirt roads in Maine and New Hampshire were it performed well. I have driven it to Florida twice. Good gas mileage. CONS: Road noise on the highway.

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  Rust - 2011 Ford Escape
  By GPM - April 28 - 2:39 pm

  I like to buy a new car and keep it for a long time. I like to wash and wax and keep the car clean. My 2011 Ford Escape has been disappointing. The paint blistered at the rear wheel wells and there is rust. I have not seen this on any of the other Ford or competitive cars I have owning. I will be very reluctant to buy another Ford.

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  First 1000 miles vehicle is great - 2009 Ford Escape
  By stephen minar - April 28 - 1:03 pm

  The first 1000 miles I have really enjoyed driving this truck. I have been leasing Escapes since 2001. So far this is best for ride and comfort.

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  I Love It - 2004 Ford Escape
  By Jackie - April 25 - 5:45 pm

  I purchased my Escape mainly because my daughter & grandson live 300 miles away and its all PA turnpike. I wanted something comfortable and economic to make the 5 hour trip (frequently) but big enough to haul everything that I must take. My Escape has carried tools, furniture (they recently purchased a house) and a lot of toys. I love my Escape, the ride is extremely comfortable, not truck-like, sporty and a real pleasure to drive

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  Nice handling suv - 2002 Ford Escape
  By MikeM - April 25 - 10:00 am

  Have had for two months now, continue to be impressed with the handling of this unit. Drives very much like a car. Wind noise around the A pillar is a bit of a pain, and the front seats could be a little more grippy. No major manufacturing defects have surfaced. One piece of rubber door seal has been a bit loose around the headliner area, but thats about it. Having test drove the Honda CRV extensively, this unit compares very favorably, particularly when you go to accelerate or take long crusing road trips. Strongly recommend the power driver seat as an option. Interior layout is very well thought out.

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  Best Small SUV - 2004 Ford Escape
  By redhound1 - April 21 - 2:00 am

  Bought this care with 2 miles on it in November 2003. Ive enjoyed every minute with it. My wife who has a Sable always wants to use my Escape. I compared the car with a Jeep Liberty, Toyota Highlander, Hyundai Santa Fe, and a Mitsubishi Montero Sport. The Escape won hands down. Car has GREAT pickup and handles almost like a car. Even without the 4wd option, I had no problems getting around in the snow this winter.

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  Ford Escape Delivers - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Tom - April 20 - 10:16 am

  The Escape is a great mini SUV that does everything well, keeping in mind its limitations. Its not what I would consider a primary family vehicle; for that I would suggest something bigger. The Escape is a great commuter, grocery getter, or light hauler. It is fun to drive, very peppy, agile, and responsive to all inputs. The build quality is quite satisfactory. I have no complaints at all.

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  WHAT A GREAT LITTLE SUV - 2005 Ford Escape
  By JOE BELVEDERE - April 19 - 11:59 am

  Got rid of our Windstar minivan which had terrible (13-14) mpg. With the Escapes strong (and pretty quiet) 4 cylinder, we are getting 19 city and over 25 highway, and thats with the full time awd! Great ride, peppy performance, superior braking, solid handling. A real winner!

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  Ford Escape XLT - 2003 Ford Escape
  By roeaz - April 19 - 10:00 am

  Escape is fun to drive - smooth riding, transmission is smooth, and has power in the 6cylinder.