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 SUV - 2004 Ford Escape
  By Kelly Lelito - October 25 - 2:56 pm

  This is the best car I have owned to date- I loved it.

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  Good design but crappy parts - 2014 Ford Escape
  By Jon - October 16 - 5:04 pm

  I got the 2014 Ford Escape Titanium AWD (2.0 Liter engine). I really like the design of the vehicle and the interior. The fuel economy isnt as bad as some have stated. I average about 24mpg combined (27-28 highway). The AWD does a really good job in slippery conditions, and I was pretty impressed with it. However! I bought it in Nov 2013 and Ive already had a few issues that really surprised me. The first issue was within 10k miles. I had a bearing go bad in my front right wheel. The warranty covered it no problem, but it was still really strange. A couple of months later I had back left strut go bad, and I had to get that replaced. Still it was under warranty so it wasnt a huge issue, but I was starting to worry about the quality of the Ford parts. Now this week I took it in for a knocking noise when I back-up and it turns out my front left strut is bad as well. This time however it was only covered under the extended warranty for some reason, so I had to pay a 100$ co-pay. At this point Im basically considering my options to escape this Escape. Im barely at 35k miles on this thing and not quite 2 years of ownership. I understand parts go bad, but for 3 parts to fail in the first 2 years and 35k miles worries me.

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  So Far So Good - 2015 Ford Escape
  By square85 - October 8 - 12:26 pm

  Leased a 2015 Escape SE 4WD 2.0 in August and have about 1200 miles on her so far. Got some extras that I didnt necessarily want but the dealership gave me a deal so I took it. Have the vista roof and wouldnt recommend it honestly it barely tilts open and if you open it 100% instead of the standard opening, there is a terrible buffeting sound that travels throughout the inside of the car. I would recommend the 2.0 because it really performs and takes off MPG is so-so but that is to be expected when there is so much power to give. There is no interior storage but I knew that when choosing the vehicle so I cant really call that a "con." I dont understand the negativity behind MyFord Touch Ive never had an issue and thus far has worked flawlessly. Some more observations: -Headlights work fine and I like that they automatically come on when the wipers are put to the low setting -Grown to appreciate the dual zone climate control -Cant live without a power hatch after having one now -Driver seat is very comfortable -All cars should come with built in blind spot mirrors -Keypad entry is nice use it more to lock the car than anything else -Engine turns over very quickly -Power reserve stays on even when the keys are out of the ignition as long as a door isnt opened -LED interior lights are nice and bright Only "issue(s)" Ive had would be the power shade for the vista roof vibrating within the first days of ownership while parked on an incline and it hasnt happened since. Its only happened two or three times but the car will shift very hard when turning it on and shifting out of park.

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  238,000 miles and going strong - 2001 Ford Escape
  By Steven - September 3 - 3:27 am

  My parents gave me this vehicle for free when they got a new lincoln mxX, ive had zero issues with it other than A/C and a rear door lock, other than that no engine troubles whatsoever theyre was an accident with someone standing still and me hitting them 10-15 mph and the bumper bar saved the radiator, otherwise zero damage other than bumper cover, this car is 11-12 years old of constant transportation whether its a 2 hour trip or to work everyday, i love this car and am gonna use it till it rots.

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  Great Value S model - 2014 Ford Escape
  By rkelon - June 16 - 5:15 pm

  We have enjoyed the car, it does what we want and have no complaints. No issues. We also have a 2014 CRV ex, same story.

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  30K in, Jury still out - 2015 Ford Escape
  By uteman - May 3 - 7:04 pm

  Overall, Good, w/ 3 complaints: 1. Took 10K mi & 3X back to dlr to find and correct eng. starting to inexplicably run rough AT speed. Finally only after sending us out for 3wks w/ onboard eng. recorder was fault found. Had to replace main wiring harnass to computer. 2. Design flaw causes ctr-rear "female" belt receptical to get caught under seat & squash-damaged when seats folded forward. 2X back for repair. 3. Salesman emphasized "Reg. fuel," BUT after sale noted Owm. Manual says "87" octane, w/ lower 85 octane causing performance & mileage loss as eng computer auto-detunes to compensate. 4. "Sync" is still a pain in the ___!

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  Mine is the 2.0 - 2015 Ford Escape
  By petalmasher - March 25 - 4:51 pm

  Not sure why anyone would get the lower trim levels. For someone who wants the best bang for the buck dependably hauling kids, car seats, daiper bags and luggage across the state for a family vacation, the Forester, Rav 4 and CRV are the obvious choices. An Escape will do the job but it will be a bit more cramped and cost a little more. If you also want a combination of handling, power, interior materials, and tech options generally only available in a luxury brand without paying $10k for a hood badge, a loaded Escape is a a good option.

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  A good purchase - 2012 Ford Escape
  By Phil Pimental - March 16 - 9:21 pm

  I have owned four Escapes over the years, and own a 2009 and a 2012. I have now had the 2012 for a year now and put about 10K miles on it. I have had no issues with it. It will get over 30 MPG on long trips when driven at highway speeds.

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  Good to go - 2004 Ford Escape
  By David M Decker - February 23 - 8:34 pm

  Bought this sweet heart with 120k and have put another 50K on in the last 18 months. 4x4 easy to handle and shift. We live in Alaska and have some pretty icy roads and rough weather. I can leave town and trust my bride will be safe in our trusted little rig. Tracks and climbs like one of the big boys but just sips the fuel. Plenty of power and a delight to drive. No problems thus far, but keep those fluids changed ! Very strange way to change the front turn signals.

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  Wind whistle at highway speed - 2014 Ford Escape
  By Sue Gamber - February 18 - 2:34 pm

  Would love this car, if not for the fact that it whistles when going over 55. An internet search has shown me that this is an ongoing problem with this model Wish I had seen that first. Have had it to the service department over 7 times, and they cannot fix it. Ford tells me I am out of luck. Do yourself a favor, try a different vehicle.