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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  Love My Escape - 2001 Ford Escape
  By Escape - March 6 - 2:00 am

  Took possession on 09/10/2001 - now have 33,050 miles on it.I follow the service manual but change oil every 3,000 miles faithfully. ABS brakes are terrific. Vehicle handles well in all weather and driving conditions. Comfortable on long rides. Holds a lot or cargo. Backseat conversion is easy- I can do it alone. Thinking of buying another this year and giving the 2001 to my husband.

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  2011 Ford Escape sever rust issuers & repair bills - 2011 Ford Escape
  By Izaak - March 3 - 7:14 pm

  I bought this 2011 Ford Escape brand new one owner , this vehicle has rusted out under the vehicle , gas tank rusted and wheel wells, and tire rims, muffler, drive shalf basically I need a new car. I still,have 5 payments left owing on this vehicle. It will Cost 3600.00 and they were afraid when they start taking it apart I would have more expense , I was told to take it trade it in, start over. My opinion this vehicle should of had a recall on it. Ford has seen a lot of this and it would cost them a lot to do a recall . I paid 30.000.00 dollars and basically said to me go buy another one, this vehicle is no longer worth putting money in to fixing it. My air condition went out , and water gets in the door front passenger and they told me that is normal keeps it from flooding their new design. My vehicle is sitting in Fords shop , and I have to sit and wait for them to keep passing the buck and fiqure what to do because their protocol want let them go over their managers head. Their manager that they contacted has declined their letters, and pictures. Refuse to pay for their mistakes, all reviews I am reading on rust issuers , Ford should stand behind their product and support their customers. I am out of a vehicle at this point, paid 30.000.00 dollars for a vehicle to last me 5 years . Mark Fields President of Ford, and Phil Perry executive , you can not get in touch with them. I was told to write them a letter. Really we all know how that will go. As if the president is going to take the time to read millions of letters everyday. Managers at the dealer shops have been very supported to me, trying, calling, sending pictures . They have a protocal they have to go by. Its up to me now to go out and report this so no one else gets burn like I did. I was very hurt and disappointed in Ford not excepting the dealerships managers letters 2 letters and pictures, and they would not even give me a reason why. Just no help in repairing this rust problem. They wouldnt give me a explanation or a reason. 30.000.00 6 year vehicle load hard work paying it back and couldnt even give me a call or a explanation . Talk about hurt, frustrated, upset disappointed I was shock. Dealer ship manger at Ford was shock as well. Safety of gas running out of my vehicle and smell on inside due to rust put my family in danger when driving.

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  2nd Lease - 2004 Ford Escape
  By kmj - March 1 - 2:00 am

  This is my 2nd lease. Very happy with ride and performance. Size is perfect and easy to drive.

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  escape xlt - 2004 Ford Escape
  By ontario - March 1 - 2:00 am

  very nice suv very roomy inside nice interier very comfortable seats very good milege for the type of vehicle from far away it looks bigger then it is its pretty close to a explorer but not as wide good power no hesitation at all sometimes i wonder if it is to much engine for this suv comes with almost all the bells and whistles.

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  Big Yellow - 2001 Ford Escape
  By m nelson - February 28 - 2:00 am

  This is the first yellow Escape sold in Texas. It is very fun to drive. It is great on highway trips (13 & 15 hour drives). The fog lights were especially appreciated on two trips overnight with fog for 6 hours or more. Since we have been long-term Volvo drivers, we appreciated the steering and drivability. The Escape has none of those problems. It is also a pleasure in intense freeway traffic, 0 to 5mph and the speed limit variety. We have the towing package. It seemed to work fine the one time we used it.

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  2001 Escpe Power Steering Problems - 2001 Ford Escape
  By jc of the north - February 27 - 2:00 am

  Overall I have enjoyed this vehicle. It rides well and handles very well on snow and ice. Lots of power with the six and great passenger room. I dont like the amount of wind noise . I have also had some problems with the power steering system. Had a hose come off and covered the engine compartment with fluid. Was told this is a common problem with this model. Presently the vehicle is sitting in the shop waiting for a power steering pump. We are at two weeks and counting. Were told that the dealership has a couple more Escapes with the same problem sitting and waiting as well. This does not insire confidence in the maintainability of this vehicle.

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  Fun & Peppy Ride @ a nice $ - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Marjorie Constantino - February 26 - 10:00 am

  I have the sport model. I found the Sport package to be a great buy for the money. You get great all-terrain tires, cool sport rims, roof rack, trailer hitch, and side step bars. Its good on gas. I love the smooth ride and handeling, unlike some other SUVs with a more bumpy ride. The back seats are quite roomey with a good size cargo area.The exterior is pleasing to the eye. It is stylish and sporty. It is a nice size, not too big and not too small. There are also alot of nice Escape accessories available from the Ford dealerships like: bike rack, roof storage bin, bug & rock shield, and more. I highly reccomend the Ford Escape.

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  2002 Escape - 2002 Ford Escape
  By Stick shift fanatic - February 23 - 10:00 am

  I love the 5 speed stick shift . It was great getting this with 4WD. Handles great in bad weather. Seating is comfortable especially with teenagers in the back seat. It is fun driving my sporty bright red Escape.

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  Impressed - 2008 Ford Escape
  By khogan - February 23 - 2:36 am

  Overall I love the car! There is plenty of room, although the seats could be a bit more comfortable, and more trunk space. I love the sun roof, and the smoothness of the car.

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  Many problems - 2001 Ford Escape
  By kfeels - February 20 - 2:00 am

  Transmission broke down at 42,000 miles. Had to take to various dealers until finally the dealer we bought it from agreed to pay for half the repair cost for a new transmission. Very disappointed with the attitude I received from some dealers. I was told that the reason the transmission broke was that the fluid was not changed at 30,000. I find that hard to believe since other Escape owners also were having transmission problems. We are shopping for a safer car and will not consider a Ford.