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:

• 

  What a GIANT mistake ! - 2013 Ford Escape
  By Dave - December 19 - 12:24 pm

  This car has been nothing but a giant headache sense we first got it . I cant count the times its been taken in for something . If its not a recall its the actual car malfunctioning. Here is a list of problems within the first two years : -Sensor was causing the car to flutter and shut off. -water pump -back window needs new switch -seat belts wont stop retracting -front anxel needed to be replaced -radio would not turn on -alternator needs to be replaced Im sure Im forgetting something but you get the point. But the most aggravating thing about this car is the placement of the battery . The battery is under the dash board , only the positive connector is sticking out . To get the battery out you have to remove the air filtration system . I cant imagine that ford is that stupid , I can only assume they did it on purpose . I will never buy another American made car . Thank you ford, dodge and Chevy for teaching me to never buy an American made car again. Im trading this garbage on four wheels in for a Toyota .

• 

  DO NOT BUY!!! - 2011 Ford Escape
  By Preston Larson - December 16 - 3:14 pm

  My wife bought this car brand new in 2011. Worked great for 3 years and 1 month. 3 weeks after our 3 year warranty expired the back left window regulator went out. Ford would not replace it so we had to have it replaced for $200. One month later the back right window regulator went out. Soon after that the AC went out. And just recently the sun roof stopped opening and closing. We have owned this car for 4.5 years and have had to get more things fixed then any car I have ever owned. The car looks nice and drives fine in my opinion but the cost to own it is ridiculous. I will never buy an escape or a ford for that matter ever again.

• 

  Just ok - 2010 Ford Escape
  By stev sc - December 9 - 5:35 pm

  Overall an ok car. Cheap materials inside. Switches failed. Minor problems turned into big things quickly

• 

  2 years old & Ive spent $7,000 in Repairs - 2013 Ford Escape
  By Bruce Reasoner - December 4 - 8:06 pm

  I own 2013 Ford Escape 2.0 L ecoboost AWD I bought new in 2013 It has 77,000 miles almost all freeway.. This year Ive spent $7,000 in out of warranty repairs. Faulty injector and faulty BCM (body control module) $2,500. New transmission $4,500 I am so disgusted with the quality of the Ford Escape This is worst car Ive ever owned and I think I would rather be hung by my toes than purchase a Ford Escape. HEED THIS WARNING.. FORD ESCAPES ARE ENDLESS MONEY PIT.

• 

  217k and still going - 2001 Ford Escape
  By JCR - November 29 - 8:38 pm

  3.0 V6 XLT. Bought it new with leather and towing pkg. Has 3500 lbs towing capacity which was best in class then. Still getting 20 mpg city and 25-27 mpg hwy. Great suv even by todays standards. Heard some horror stories with the transmissions on this vehicles I serviced my transmission every 50k no problem!

• 

  Good car, Good Price - 2004 Ford Escape
  By Andrea Gonzalez - November 29 - 2:04 pm

  I bought my car because I wanted something with a little more space when I had my child. Its perfect with kids and car seats, enough space for everyone to be comfortable. Ive always trusted Ford because with the exception of the older "Exploders" theyve made great cars. My car isnt an exception. It has 165,000 miles and it still runs pretty good. Only complaint is leaking oil, but aside from that, its been pretty reliable. Alternator went out recently, but thats to be expected. One Ford trait, is blowing coils. Two days after I bought it, at 140,000 the coils around the spark plugs blew,which caused a misfire. Could have been a pricey fix other than being married to a mechanic.

• 

  The Worst Vehicle Ever, Glad I Escaped from Escape - 2013 Ford Escape
  By Jim J - November 20 - 2:30 pm

  Oil Burning Odor being drawn into the cabin from the engine compartment, FORD NEVER figured out the problem. Hood seal was bad and something was letting off a burning oil smell, smoke under the hood. Transmission Failed and was rebuilt, rear differential was rebuilt. All of this happened before 3 years 36,000 miles. Safety restraint computer needed to be replaced under recall... It took Ford almost a year from announcing the recall to actually have the part available. FORD Seems to put their sales before taking care of their current customers... They got your money, now you dont matter to them...

• 

  All around good vehicle so far. - 2015 Ford Escape
  By Brock - November 20 - 1:39 pm

  I bought the 2.0 AWD Titanium addition. This model is not included in the drop down box for the 2015 model year. I dont know why but whatever. Anyway, I bought this vehicle as opposed to other SUVs on the market mainly because it had the towing package. I am a big fan of Hondas as they have been very reliable for me but the styling of the new CR-V did not impress me. I have the same minor gripes as other people with lack of cubbies up front and that the back only fits my golf clubs diagonally and just barely. Also the gas tank is way undersized. Just recently filled up and trip computer claimed I had 362 miles to empty. Not the case, generally have to fill up around 300. Overall I have found the vehicle comfortable and the Sync system works great. Acceleration and handling seem very good. I think for the price of the Titanium trim, you should get the LED headlight accents/daytime running lights included in the trim level rather than having to pay additional. Thats about it.

• 

  2004 Escape keeps on keeping on! - 2004 Ford Escape
  By James Crum - November 12 - 3:28 pm

  Bought this vehicle new in Oct. 2003. No trade in got a good deal from the dealership. Car has been one of the best we ever had for the money. 202,000 miles and still running strong. I change my own oil, every 5,000 miles w/Motorcraft oil and filter and the 3.0 V-6 never uses any oil, average 1/2 qt. in 5,000 miles. Very happy with the car. Went out and bought another new one hope it is as good as the 2004 has been. Got 26MPG highway with Continental tires, went on the cheap with Cooper tires last set never again. Tires are loud, ride rough had them balanced twice, plus MPG DROPPED 2 MPG stay away from Cooper tires.

• 

  Money Pit - 2004 Ford Escape
  By David Downing - November 10 - 11:54 pm

  My mom bought this SUV in October 2012 (Ive daily driven it since September 2014) with 113,000 miles, with almost all the maintenence reports, and the vehicle was very well maintained. First year of ownership was great. It Handled very well, rode very nicely, had a lot of power, and got good gas mileage (25 MPG combined). About 13 months later it started having normal issues, like needing tie rods and tires and spark plugs. Then the vacuum leaks popped up. Then the exhaust falling off the car. Then needing a seal on the transfer case replaced. My car died in September 2014, and Ive been driving the Escape almost daily since. In that time, its needed struts as well as two new tires, which are normal things to wear on a car. The not so normal? Power steering pump failed twice, needed new brake lines, new front calipers, as well as a new master cylinder, more vacuum leaks, exhaust leaks, ball joints, and a wheel bearing. Fast forward to now, the car sits at 153,954 miles, and the car has an extremely rough idle, a plastic melting smell that will literally burn your eyes, and stalling. Im pretty sure its a vacuum link, my mom thinks the engine is blown. Either were not sinking any more money into it, as the transmission was on its way out as well.