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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  Great Little Crossover! - 2016 Ford Escape
  By Clive Goodwin - December 15 - 9:21 pm

  Been shopping for a small SUV for quite some time. Had a 2005 Ford Escape XLT and sold with 128,000 miles. Was excellent vehicle and had only regular maintenance, and no major repairs. After looking at what the current market has available (Honda Pilot, Toyota, GMC, Dodge and GM) and tested, kept coming back to the Escape. My main concern was no available V6, only the inline 1.6 or 2.0 with turbo. I worried about having to always run high rpms and wasnt sure about engine longevity. After driving the Titanium with optional 2.0 L, Package 301 and navigation system a few times, I was completely sold on the 4 cylinder. Has great power, turbo is smooth and rpms are surprisingly low. Comfortable ride and the new Sync3 is reasonably easy to learn. Fit and finish is also excellent. I did not opt for the 19" wheels, just the standard 18". Have read a few reviews that the 19" wheels made for a bit of a rougher ride. I did not test drive any that had the 19". With 240hp rating, its much faster than my 2005 V6 was. I also have the class II towing package, rated at 3,500 lbs. At this time, I dont have anything near that range, so assuming it wont be a problem. Have also seen that various auto reviews have been very good. Hoping the reliability factor will meet with what I had on the 2005.

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  Style in an Economy Powered SUV - 2003 Ford Escape
  By Mark Owen - December 10 - 2:00 am

  Economy SUV with good style and road manners. Driving it is very much fun with its powered V6 3.0 engine, and with the easy handling as result of its body/Chassis made from a car-frame. The design is outstanding, and bring the eyes of many others around. Ford did it this time. Small families with normal needs and reduced income will love the Escape.

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  Ford Escape 2015 New Flooded - 2016 Ford Escape
  By Jerri Manning - December 9 - 6:21 pm

  Purchased car new in May. I am long-term Ford customer. Car FLOODED due to defect in front windshield. Ford will not replace or to buy back program after copious amounts of water was in this vehicle. Will not recommend to anyone due to Ford seems to feel that this is not a serious issue. I did not want a vehicle I purchased new 5 months ago to have a history of flooding.

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  Very good car for the money - 2001 Ford Escape
  By doorg_reater - December 5 - 2:00 am

  I have driven 25500 miles in my Escape. I have FWD version, so it is not that great on snow, but is still good on gravel and forest roads when it is dry. Overall, I like this this car, especially the strong engine and good handling. (I have driven Hyundai Santa Fe, and Escape handles much better than Hyundai.) I got the cheap XLS version so the interior is pretty basic, but still OK. The only problem so far was failed DPFE sensor at 19k miles.

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  Starting Problems - 2002 Ford Escape
  By jewff - December 4 - 11:16 pm

  We love our Escape. Great V6 power. Plenty of room inside. A joy to drive. With 2235 miles ours failed to start. After 20 minutes it starts right up. Technician was on road test and it stalled on him-started right back up. Brought it back to dealer to check computer - no codes and wouldnt restart. Fords Technical Department told them to install new fuel pump. No problems since. It runs stronger than ever now. We still love our Escape but we now wonder!

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  Fun To Drive - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Bob - December 3 - 8:30 pm

  Excellent handling. Plenty of power, especially in the snow. Responsive vehicle.

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  Escape to more! - 2008 Ford Escape
  By Escape to adventure! - November 18 - 11:10 am

  I recently traded in my 2005 Ford Escape for a 2008 Ford Escape. I went over that vehicle with a fine tooth comb. Then I did it again. I drove the Vue Red Line, Cx7, CRV, Element and an X3. The Ford won hands down! This vehicle was made for me. I got the Satellite Radio, Monnroof, Convenience Package, Sport Wheels and too many other options to list. I have had complete strangers come up to me and ask to take a look because they havent seen one and want to take a peek. Its amazing! I have had it for 3 weeks and already have 1600 miles on it. Its just FUN to drive! Ford has done an amazing job on this redesign! This is my 4th Ford. I wont even look at a Chevy!

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  Nice Escape - 2004 Ford Escape
  By medicdi - November 18 - 10:00 am

  The Ford Escape is a simple SUV compared to the Explorer or the other larger SUVs. It has punch on excelleration and the ride of a mid- priced midsized sedan. The seats fall short behind the knee unlike the Explorer that offers comfort and support to all of the leg. Long trips are comfortable in the beginning but due to the lack of leg support a few hours of driving can be uncomfortable. The stereo system is stock, but is on the high end of Fords audio devices. It has a great sound and 6 disc changer. Climate controls are in a good location. All in all I would get the hybrid version when it comes out.

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  Nice Package - 2004 Ford Escape
  By Jack DiBella - November 18 - 10:00 am

  I was very supprised how on accelration it just takes off ,plenty of power for a V6 .Im getting about 22mpg right now with a little over 1200 miles on it. I had a 2001 explorer before this. I feel the Escape has a better feel and handles very well on turns and parkways.I am a truck driver by trade and have always been in some kind of truck for at least 8hrs a day and feel at home in my Escape.....

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  Love my Escape - 2004 Ford Escape
  By chestylarue1 - November 18 - 10:00 am

  Although I have only owned my Escape for 30 days, I am in love. The driver seat is so comfortable. As someone with lower back problems, its so nice to sit on a Los Angeles freeway and not have a spasming right hip. The seat is like a comfortable living room chair so there is very little pressure on my back. Kudos to Ford for making a comfortable nice sized SUV