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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  Nice ride - 2005 Ford Escape
  By EVELYN - August 28 - 8:50 pm

  This Ford Escape has been a pleasant experience for me. It rides comfortably on long trips. It has room and I like the way it lets you lay the seats for comfort. I like everything about this Escape

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  Blown engine - 2004 Ford Escape
  By aceron76 - August 26 - 10:50 am

  My engine threw a rod at 34,311 miles and punched 2 holes in the block. Ford replaced it under warranty. If you buy a Ford make sure you are aware of their Road Side Assistance program and you also may want to get an extended warranty. They dont give you a replacement car or a rental without an extended warranty. I was without my vehicle for 2 weeks.

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  Its great! - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Sailor - August 25 - 9:16 am

  I special ordered it the first day possible. It is a wonderful vehicle. The acceleration is very good (I havent yet gotten to the pedal to the floor going "go, go!" )in every instance. The higher visibility is what led me to it. FInally, an SUV that I can justify on ecological basis. It rivals my Ford Escort in mileage

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  I Really Like It - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Ira - August 20 - 5:06 am

  Based on my first 1000 miles I achieved 29.4 mpg. For a car this size and with AWD I am pleased with the mileage. The vehicle has a stiff European type ride and responsive steering. The symbiotic relationship between the electric motors, gas engine, generators and battery results in a smooth, seamless ride. The car is not a luxury vehicle so dont expect frivolous amenities. The car also has good acceleration (153 total horsepower), but the right armrest is too short and the seats could use a little more padding. Overall: Im very pleased

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  My second Escape - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Kevin - August 15 - 11:26 am

  This is my second Ford Escape. I purchased my first Escape in 2001. I drove it for 4 years until I upgraded to my 2005. I have noticed small but effective changes. First is the power. Its quick on the take off and the engine is much quieter than the earlier models. I love the changes to the front with the more sporty head lights. The seats were not as comfortible as my 01 Escape but I added lumbar support and heated seats and that cleared up the comfort problem. I love the interior trim with its easy layout of the controls. I also added an after market Kenwood Excelon DvD/MP3/CD/Navigation system. It looks like it came from the factory. I am very proud to be an Escape owner!

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  My favorite things - 2004 Ford Escape
  By sonismith - August 14 - 10:00 am

  It handles like a car, parks so easily (and we live in the city),it has great pickup on the open road and feels like a solid luxury vehicle. The back seats lay completely flat and I have the space and utility of a good truck. My daughter is a new driver and I believe this 2004 Escape is the safest SUV on the road today.

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  Excellent Compact SUV - 2004 Ford Escape
  By Mike - August 8 - 3:17 pm

  Have owned my AWD Escape XLT V6 for 15 trouble free months now and I continue to be impressed by the overall quality and versatility of this little SUV. Car-like ride, powerful engine, excellent handling and braking capability. I live on a small farm and occasionally have to drive it over some rough terrain. It is a tough little SUV, and Ford was smart enough to put all-terrain tires on the Escapes. This is a definite advantage over the Honda CR-V , Toyota RAV-4 and several other "pretenders." Would highly recommend the Escape to anyone.

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  Escape Limited in Alaska - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Alaskan - August 7 - 6:13 pm

  Lots of research before purchase. Seriously considered Japanese products. Their quality is no doubt a bit better. None in class though, had the driveability and just plain fun in driving as the V6 Escape. The large wheels provide a most excellent ride and are optimum for Alaska winters. We bought a Limited with moon roof, leather trim heated seats and other creature comforts. Mileage is OK around town. Wed hoped for more but are all around delighted with purchase. Highly recommended.

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  Disappointed in this vehicle - 2005 Ford Escape
  By LuckyDL - August 6 - 4:30 pm

  I bought this SUV for the gas mileage and I have not been disappointed, I travel all over DC every day and this SUV is perfect for it. However it is the most uncomfortable vehicle I have ever driven. The distance from the steering wheel to the back rest is uncomfortable. The cup holder is not convenient in the least bit. I load alot of things in the back, especially early in the morning - there is no light back there, cant see a thing! I HATE the noise that goes off when you dont buckle your seatbelt, (if I want to buckle I will). Drivers seat is hard and uncomfortable. This care zooms around DC with the greatest of ease and for that and for the mileage I am grateful.

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  I like it. - 2004 Ford Escape
  By SueSki - August 2 - 2:00 am

  I downsized from a Durango to the Escape, and I was worried about the change. But I was pleasantly surprised with the Escape. It is comfortable, zippy enough and it pulled my snowmobiles just fine. Some of the things Im not to fond of are: the turn ratio, the small gas tank, a lot of the controls are on the column levers and sometimes gets confusing (may just need time to adjust to them). Overall, I rate this truck pretty highly.