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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  Excellent - 2004 Ford Escape
  By AuntSusiex2 - June 26 - 10:00 am

  I wasnt looking to buy a new vehicle but after one test drive I knew I needed this SUV. The Escape is just the right size. Not too big, not too small. I am a smaller woman 53 and I did not feel out of place in this SUV. I love my Escape!

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  Safe, Reliable and Fun - 2004 Ford Escape
  By escapeowner - June 26 - 10:00 am

  This exterior and interior of vehicle is very sharp in appearance. It is fun to drive, and has nice safety features, which gives one a sense of security when driving. Cargo space is more than needed.

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  Great Ride! - 2008 Ford Escape
  By Chicago - June 24 - 11:03 pm

  My first SUV and I love it! Its roomy, smooth and quiet ride, nice display, great sound system, everything that I wanted plus more at a great price. Size looks bigger than it really is. I was eyeing the CR-V for 9 months and then looked at the RAV4 - couldnt push myself into purchasing one. I think the 2008 Escape beats them both! The Escape was equipped with everything I wanted - many were standard. CR-V would need to add so many options which should be standard. Im happy I held off. I rode in a 2007 Escape as a loaner and there is a huge difference in ride, noise, comfort, steering, display, and many other features. I just hit 1300 miles and and up to 19.2 mpg.

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  The Lazy 2016 Escape! - 2016 Ford Escape
  By archie cash - June 19 - 8:55 pm

  First I have the 2.0 Turbo Engine. Lets start with the Vista roof. You cannot have the windows down as the head liner will flip and drive you crazy at any speed. I have taking it on one major trip and now have parked it and looking to sell it soon. Under the front is a cheapest cardboard covering of the engine you will ever find! Thats is until you have to have it replaced because of a piece of Truck tire that hit it. What it really does, is protect a small piece on the A/C compressor that looks like a afterthought. Its fuel Economy should be more. I would look at a Edge because of power verses mileage. The Escape doesnt corner well. At least with the 19" tires. Its tall and narrow and drifts. For the money, you can find a better SUV. The 2017 has made changes the 2016 doesnt have. Like a bigger gas tank. Then their is the shifter that is to far forward on the 2016 but was moved on the 2017. You will like the sound but that can come on just about any Ford, the sync 3. I had one side window blow out on a turnpike and the glass did not stay together but went everywhere, lucky for me, my grand-daughter was asleep under a blanket. The hood was really ugly but the 2017 they did some changes also. I would stay away from this SUV and look at others before I buy and also look at the HP. The 2017 added more HP, but again when you get only about 3 mpg over a 300 HP V6, I would really look at the V6 Engine. Last, when will Warranty be upped on a Ford? Even the Lincoln has 4 years. Many others have better and for the money I really would not do this again. And for love of money dont buy a White one if people around you burn wood as its a magnet for soot! The tailgate on mine goes in for a look as waving my 11" shoe will not open the back. I hope this helps someone, Thanks!

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  Electric Escapism - 2005 Ford Escape
  By dw438 - June 15 - 2:03 am

  So far, so good. After taking test drives at autoshows and with dealers, and really needing a replacement this years for my 01 Escape, I took the plunge with an all-wheel-drive Hybrid. Smooth city driving, with enough pep to take on the interstates with ease. Has speed like a six-cylinder. Its new CVT transmission is as smooth as silk! And its quieter than previous Escapes. Still cant get over the no engine noise feeling at a stop light, or in bumper-to-bumper city traffic!

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  The Rock Biter - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Kim Taylor - June 9 - 5:13 pm

  My wife and I have been driving our computer controlled 4WD 4 cylinder Escape since May of this year. We fine it really comfortable in all kinds of road situations, and especially on trips in excess of 150 miles. The interior is great, with supportive seats, and plenty of leg room, even in the rear seat. We frequently drive in the Arizona mountains with our 4 banger, and it hauls us up the hills at speed limit. We have also done some pretty rough off road rock path climbing with it. It is well mannered, and never slips a tire. The vehicle saved our lives north of Flagstaff when we were taken off the road by a 5th wheeler. Into the gravel and out - no problems. We love our little Escape.

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  A nice small SVU - 2005 Ford Escape
  By syoung - June 5 - 12:46 pm

  So far, it has been unfailingly reliable. Mine is a very early example of the 2005 year. I have the 4 wheel drive version; the 4 wheel drive is just flawless. You dont generally notice when it engages, but traction is there all the time. Great room for an SUV of this class - but why dont they make them six inches wider? Theyd do better to eliminate the floor console and install under-seat bins.

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  The Truck that Drives like a car - 2001 Ford Escape
  By bdale - June 5 - 10:00 am

  Peppy V6. Drives like a car and not a truck, you feel the bumps a little more. Comfortable for long drives. Havent had a recall or need for repair. Back seat roomy. Dont care for the steps on the side, only serve to dirty your pants.

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  Surprisingly Peppy SUV - 2003 Ford Escape
  By drive2bfree - June 5 - 10:00 am

  In the "break-in" mode and so far the vehicle is surprisingly peppy and fun to drive. Enjoy the space and the 4x4 capability. The vehicle started to shimmyvibrate when over 65-70mph, but it seems it may have been the windy weather that day since it has not happened since. Will keep an eye on it, though.

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  perfect - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Karen Soderlund - June 2 - 5:13 am

  It is a wonderful car to drive, easily to handle, a good looker