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 small suv - 2006 Ford Escape
  By Stan - December 3 - 7:03 am

  I have had this 2006 Escape for about a month. I am 6 275 lbs and I fit just right in it. The new Duratec engine will get into traffic with no problem. So far I like it a lot and I like the gas mileage too.

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  Love It - 2010 Ford Escape
  By Rick - December 2 - 4:05 pm

  I have owned the Escape Limited 2010 for about a month, traded in a 2004 Explorer. I prefer the ride of the Escape. The full set of options are great and with the Sun and SYNC package traveling is a joy. Storage is less than the Explorer, but the gas mileage is way better. I am glad I made this purchase

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  I love my Escape - 2003 Ford Escape
  By pammymc - November 23 - 5:46 pm

  I bought this car new. I have had no real issues with it other than brake wear (my driving habbits-not the cars fault. Had to get new rotors twice.) & the starter went out @ 35K. The interior has taken a beating from my kids but a little Folex & it looks like new again. The radio is ok. I love my 6 disc CD changer. It doesnt have Aux plugs so no I-pod in the car. The thing is driving habbits determine alot how your car is going to perform. Flippling from reverse to drive while still moving will screw the transmission on any car. Some drivers migt want to examine their habits before the scrap the car. Overall Id buy another one if my credit wasnt messed up with this economy!

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  One Week Update - 2010 Ford Escape
  By Bill C - November 22 - 12:49 pm

  After 200 miles, I am very happy with the purchase thus far. 171 hp engine is not a speed demon from rest yet it is not slow. 6 speed auto shifts well, getting 23 mpg around town. Expect it will be near 30 mpg on highway. 302A package adds nice options and car feels strong, safe and leather interior is nice. excellent radio, SIRIUS and hands free phone options, rear view camera and Synch.

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  ESCAPE EXCELLENT - 2004 Ford Escape
  By MC CLLAREN - November 22 - 2:00 am

  This auto is built strong like a truck but handels next to a car. Mileage is excellent [sometimes 30 mpg].Small engine will rev up for take off from stoplight. Power good for driving but not for pulling. Get bigger engine for this job. Good for small family [4 people].Price is excellent.

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  Best choice for mid-size SUV AWD - 2009 Ford Escape
  By Carole - November 21 - 8:48 am

  I read reviews, test drove 15 different, checked out 10 dealers. Hands down the Ford Escape was the best deal for us. The RAV 4 is way overpriced, seats very uncomfortable. We couldnt imagine what agony a long trip would be. Same with everything else we drove. Weve logged 5900 miles in 3.5 months. Theres not much we dont like other than the gas mileage & the paint surface is already scratched. Lowering the back seats does require getting used to & the position of the arm rest/console could be moved forward for easier access. Glove box useless. Winter weather will determine if the love affair continues.

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  Outstanding - 2002 Ford Escape
  By Motcee - November 20 - 10:00 am

  Its a great looking truck both inside and out. It is as comfortable as a car, handles like one and boy does it have some get up and go. This is my third suv. The other two were broncos. They handled like trucks but being an suv person, I liked them anyway. I thought I would miss the room in the broncos but the escape is perfect. I find myself thinking up errands to run just to drive it. I am more than satisfied with it.

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  very pleased - 2010 Ford Escape
  By john - November 17 - 11:23 am

  Have 940 miles on 2010 XLT 6cyl and am very pleased. Quieter than my 2008 Accord. I drive to get milage...25.3 in small town suburbia driving, 28.6 on highway. My first American car in 12 years an am glad I bought American...the quality is greatly improved.

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  NO COMPLAINTS - 2006 Ford Escape
  By viola chapman - November 15 - 11:08 am

  Had 29,0000 when I purchased it & cross my fingers, so far, I am very please with the car. yes a little lound interior, but I would say that is to be expected, because it is not the heavier, big SUV. It has 33<186 miles now, so I hope it keeps on to be the reliability and quality that I have enjoyed the short time I have drove it back and forth to work, everyday

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  Best Small SUV Value Period - 2002 Ford Escape
  By Tater - November 14 - 10:00 am

  After driving several small SUVs and trying to find the best overall value, we decided on the Ford Escape. Our last Ford SUV, which was a Bronco II, was 14 years old, and still running great. However, we needed 4 doors instead of 2 for our family and the Escape filled the bill. We checked out all of the usual sources, and everyone gave it glowing reviews, except for Consumer Reports which favors Japaneese automakers in general. The Escape has as much interior room as the Ford Explorer Sport 2 door and has more space than the Toyota Rav4 and others. We hope to keep our Escape at least 10 years, maybe more.