2003 Ford Escape Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.39/5 Average
260 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Need more luxury when you Escape? For 2003, Ford will offer a new Limited edition that includes body-color trim, polished aluminum wheels, a reverse sensing system, a Mach audio system with six-disc CD changer, heated front seats and sideview mirrors, premium leather seats, front side airbags and an autodimming rearview mirror. The XLT can also be upgraded this year with an appearance package that includes special wheels, side step bars and body-color exterior trim. For all 2003 Ford Escapes, there are upgraded interior materials and fabrics, an available two-tone cabin color scheme, illuminated power window and lock switches and three new colors. Finally, the XLS 4WD with a four-cylinder engine and a manual transmission is dropped for 2003.

Pros:
  • Powerful V6, large cargo capacity, comfortable interior, car-like handling.
Cons:
  • Weak standard four-cylinder engine, small gas tank size limits range.

User Reviews:

Showing 191 through 200 of 260.00
  • Love the Escape, but beware with higher miles... - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    I bought this car used in 2006, and have had it ever since (2017 now). Its been a trusty winter driving car, and does great with pulling a trailer. Its not the most comfortable of rides, but its not bad for longer drives either. The gas mileage was disappointing from the start though, with it being much lower than Id have thought for a small SUV. Be aware, when it gets to about 150k+ miles, repairs start to add up and get expensive. Ive had to replace all 3 catalytic converters, the entire front brake system, both front axles, a rear frame repair due to rust through, and a slight engine overhaul of belts, gaskets, coils, etc. That said, its sitting at over 190k miles now and is still trucking along nicely.

  • Love the Escape, but beware with higher miles... - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    I bought this car used in 2006, and have had it ever since (2017 now). Its been a trusty winter driving car, and does great with pulling a trailer. Its not the most comfortable of rides, but its not bad for longer drives either. The gas mileage was disappointing from the start though, with it being much lower than Id have thought for a small SUV. Be aware, when it gets to about 150k+ miles, repairs start to add up and get expensive. Ive had to replace all 3 catalytic converters, the entire front brake system, both front axles, a rear frame repair due to rust through, and a slight engine overhaul of belts, gaskets, coils, etc. That said, its sitting at over 190k miles now and is still trucking along nicely.

  • Love the Ford Escape! - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    A great SUV for the price! V6 engine is a real plus with this SUV, can really get up and go. Lots of space and cargo room, seats fold down with little effort for even more cargo! Independent wheel suspension is awesome, has a smooth ride. Extras like electric moon roof, locks, windows, mirrors, seats, 6- CD player, rear defroster and tons of storage just add to the comfort of this vehicle. The Escape is great in all weather conditions and is a real surprise with the two wheel drive! We have been so pleased with the Escape and its performance, thanks Ford for a real WINNER!

  • Excellent SUV - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    I have been driving my Escape for about a month now and I love it! I also have a GMC Jimmy in the family and I have to say that I love driving the Escape even more. The one wish that I have though is to rip the drivers seat out of the Jimmy and place it in the Escape. That would be heaven. You gotta love how car makers get away with the ONE power seat though! The Escape handles like a dream on icy and snowy road conditions. I have test driven a few cars in my time and I have the most confidence driving the Escape far and above all of the rest of them. If you are in the market for a smaller SUV then make sure you at least give this one a test drive...

  • Escape is awesome - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    I had been searching for an SUV that wasnt monstrous but had all of the features I wanted. The escape fills the bill. I love driving it. The design is great and its a good looking car. The 4X4 works great...better then I tought it would for a small SUV. It wqas better then my last explorer. The snow storm recently also verified the high- quality ford build that I expect now.

  • Look Elsewhere - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    Clumsy seating. Poor console setup. The future of American engineering at its worst. Transmission problems within first 2 months (dealer replaced it, though they were hesitant). Two tires needed replacing, due to bubble developements. Not very happy so far. I should have compared other similar vehicles, before jumping the gun.

  • Handles like a sports car - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    I wanted an Explorer, but when I drove the Limited, I was hooked. It comes with everything. No complaints. I have yet to see another one on the road and its great to see heads turn. Its fun driving something no one else has.

  • Eco Vehicle - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    I have been a compact car owner for years, despising the large gas guzzling SUVs for the waste and damage they cause. However, I own and run a small video production company and needed more payload for my equipment. I first noticed the Escape hybrid, but then realized the Escape got better milage than many sedans on the road. Since Ive owned the Escape, I been impressed with its features and eagerness to please. A great realiable, eco friendly solution.

  • Style in an Economy Powered SUV - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    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.

  • FUN TO DRIVE SINCE 2005! - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    This V6 SUV is more economical than you would think. Ive gotten geat gas mileage for 11 years. And its oh so fun to drive. So dependable that the only time it didnt crank, I needed a battery, ONCE. Best car I ever owned. Bought it used in 2005 with 38000 miles on it. It now has 84,000 plus & still going strong Had the brake pads changed once. Always got the oil changed regularly. Apparently it really makes a difference.

Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area