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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  Thrilled Ford Escape owner - 2010 Ford Escape
  By DBSC - February 6 - 1:18 am

  I have a 2010 Escape XLT V6, this SUV is fun to drive. I am in my mid 60s, this auto makes me feel like a teenager every time i get behind the wheel. Throttle response, power and agility are great, i have not enjoyed driving this much in decades. Ford has put comfort, power, performance and economy in a great package.

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  Wind Noise - 2009 Ford Escape
  By lORNE D ALEXANDER - February 3 - 10:04 pm

  I love my escape except for the wind noise on the highway that seems to come from the rear hatch door. It is sealed well but the gap on the exterior between the body and the door frame is very wide with no weather stripping. They must not have put this vehicle in the wind tunnel at the factory. Great vehicle except for this but it is very annoying on the highway.

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  Love my Escape - 2010 Ford Escape
  By mariantques - February 2 - 3:21 pm

  We traded in a loaded Chrysler Town & Country and I love the smaller car, easier to park (I havent tried the auto park yet). Very comfortable warm seats, and quiet smooth ride. Our Chrysler had a lot of road noise. The sync system is superb and nav system has much more and better than I had in my Chrysler. The Escape handles extremely well and the brakes are not touchy. The car feels substantial and I feel very safe. My husband was a Porsche dealer and have driven Porsches, Mercedes and even a RR. The Escape is as much fun to drive as those were. We have driven 500 miles, mostly in town and are getting 24 MPG.

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  Ford is King - 2010 Ford Escape
  By HappyInTx - February 2 - 10:37 am

  I am a truck type guy and have owned Ford PU most of my life. I finally decided to downsize because of my age. I liked the Ford Fusion, but when I drove the Escape, I knew it was the one for me. Feels more like a truck, good view to the outside. It has proven to me that the 2.5L engine is all one really needs. I like the layout of the controls. While it has a lot of nice electronics Sync elements, I just cant find much use for it.

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  231,000 - 2004 Ford Escape
  By Frosty - January 31 - 10:06 am

  I bought my Ford Escape used in 2005 at the time I purchased it, it had 150,000 miles. I have driven it everywhere , everyday , in all different types of conditions it has been fairly maintenance free until this year but at 231,000 miles that is to be expected. Motor is still great uses no oil and has been changed every 3,000 miles. The only things that I have replaced were the alternator, front wheel bearings, and 2 o2 sensors. All and all not bad. I would love to have another one that is this good.

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  Great Ride! - 2001 Ford Escape
  By RobinM - January 23 - 7:36 pm

  Love the Escape. I will buy another one if this one gives out. I have had very little trouble. Take care of it and it will last. My only complant can be tricky to work on. Have to remove air intake to replace spark plugs. Have to remove exhaust to replace oil pan gasket. Drive belt hard to get to with the side engine.

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  Does alot of things very well. - 2010 Ford Escape
  By Joe M - January 17 - 12:08 pm

  Well Ive been driving a Jeep Grand Cherokee for the last 10 years and thought Id get into something a bit smaller. This vehicle rocks. The Sync system is great so much fun. Sits nice and high. Seats are comfortable. Seems real solid. Been getting 18 miles to the gallon,and have not been on a highway yet,so that seems pretty good. Love the no cap on the gas tank. This limited has all kinds of neat stuff. Autopark is the coolest thing Ive ever seen, and it works great. Overall Im very happy.

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  This Baby Is Awesome - 2010 Ford Escape
  By Rob Abraham - January 16 - 1:24 pm

  The ride is great, i can take quick turns and it holds really well. The exterior looks bold and solid. I love the Chrome Grills.

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  The Escape was the best SUV for us! - 2010 Ford Escape
  By Bocaboy - January 11 - 1:16 pm

  I am really impressed with our Escape. We chose it after comparing it to the Forester, RAV4 and CR-V. We liked the fact that the tailgate opened up and that the window was usable because of the tire being mounted underneath the car. The fit and finish are excellent and the car doesnt have a squeak or rattle in it. I really love Sync and think it is the best implementation of electronics of any car in this class. Ford really hit a home run in that area of the interior design. The exposed wiring at the back of the adjustable mirror and on the rear window are not worthy of the remaining workmanship that went into this car. Otherwise, this car is a terrific value and very well manufactured.

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  Much better than a car - 2009 Ford Escape
  By hammer - January 6 - 1:36 am

  My wife and I drove the Escape locally and short highway rides for the first 1000 miles to break it in. Then we took a driving vacation from Chicago to Denver and back. What a dream vehicle to travel in. Four adults rode in this vehicle comfortably for 2800 miles. We really love this suv. We bought the XLT with leather and the sirius satelite system. Nice ride.