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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  My New Escape - 2006 Ford Escape
  By Terry Kobza - March 16 - 9:04 pm

  With less than 600 miles on the car the only real problem I have is the fuel economy. Could use better seats with lumbar adjustment. Also a temperature gauge like my F-150 SuperCrew and a compass. Other than that it seems like a real nice car. My wife drives it and appears pleased. Oh yes. Power disc brakes at least in front, all as standard equipment. Ford I hope you’re reading this.

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  So Far So Good! - 2002 Ford Escape
  By Jtptampa - March 13 - 2:00 am

  So far so good. Afew details are pretty cheap. Runs good, decent gas mileage, fun to drive, bigger than it looks inside

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  Super SAFE in Snow! - 2005 Ford Escape
  By jenny - March 11 - 9:00 pm

  Ive had my Escape AWD for just over a year and have almost 50k miles on it. I love it. It might not be fancy, but it is safe and reliable in just about any situation I come across, from curb jumping in the city to icy rural highways. It has never slipped on me in the snow--I laugh when I see jJeeps sliding off the side of the road and I am still chugging along! Plenty of power to pass going up steep mountains.

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  Best Vehicle Ive owned - 2005 Ford Escape
  By kell1980 - March 10 - 3:20 pm

  Ive only had it 2 weeks but I already have fallen in love with it. Its comfortable, stylish, quiet, and easy to handle. My husband loves the Mach3 sound system.

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  Love It! - 2006 Ford Escape
  By Andrew - March 8 - 3:06 pm

  I have driven an Explorer XLS for 6 years and decided to get something with more gas economy. I have to admit that the ride is superb compared to the 00 Explorer. The size is just right for a car like drive but has dig in and go capability of an SUV. The interior although plain to some, is perfect for me as too much "distraction" stuff is bothersome. I absolutely love it and cant think of a reason why I didnt buy one sooner than I did.

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  Best for your money - 2005 Ford Escape
  By gaa9021 - March 8 - 2:00 am

  With all the extra features and comfort package it feels like Im driving a luxury vehicle without the heavy ticket sale. I highly recommend it for young buyers and those with economic sense.

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  Bought this for my daughter for college graduation - 2016 Ford Escape
  By SMT - March 7 - 1:01 pm

  ........ because her POS used vehicle was nickel and diming me badly. This thing is sweet. Too small for me, but she is tiny. No leather, no sunroof. NAV package, 2.0 ecoboost (this thing flies!), nice firm power seats, great dash layout, tight firm steering. Wonderful little car. A little pricey, but I think it is worth it for what you get. I guess everything is pricey these days since I havent bought a new truck since 2004.

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  James - 2006 Ford Escape
  By James - March 7 - 11:09 am

  My Escape came from the factory with the front end out of alignment and a steering wheel vibration that comes and goes. The front tires were damaged and Ford refused to replace them. They did align the front end but have not been able to cure the vibration. The engine runs well and has good power for a 4 cylinder but often hesitates when cold. The ride and handling are good. It has some wind noise but it is not offensive. I would not recommend buying this vehicle.

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  New Ownder - 2003 Ford Escape
  By Beth AA - March 7 - 10:00 am

  I just bought my Escape a few weeks ago. I did a lot of research before my purchase and am very happy with my decision. I took it on its first road trip and it did great! I would recommend this vehicle to anyone who is looking to buy a Mini SUV.

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  Great escape - 2011 Ford Escape
  By Janice - March 6 - 4:40 am