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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  2010 Escape Limited - 2010 Ford Escape
  By arwebber - November 5 - 11:10 am

  Suprised by acceleration, smooth 6 speed trans and mpg. The Limited FWD, Moon & Tune package, side step bars, and NAV gave every goodie I wanted and then some. Ride is more like a truck than a car, very quiet, smooth and stable. Maneuvers well, doesnt feel top-heavy, steering precise. NAV, bluetooth, CD/DVD, Sirius, radio functions voice-activated. 240watt - 7 speakers. Sound quality is great! Leather seats are very comfortable. Front and rear leg room is more than adequate. Rear seating is comfortable. Quality, fit & finish and attention to detail was impressive. Consumer Reports ratings bear this out.

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  I Survived - 2008 Ford Escape
  By Liz - October 30 - 7:26 am

  Had the little bugger for 6 months, less than 10K miles, when a big bad dog ran out in the interstate at Waco. Little car in front of me slammed on brakes, I smashed her, then a huge fully loaded 18 wheeler slammed me. Escape was obviously 100% totaled. I walked away, minor bruising. I am blessed. That 5 star safety rating paid off big time! It works!

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  Survives a crash well - 2005 Ford Escape
  By RST - October 28 - 9:06 am

  Was broad sided with seats belt on and unit was totaled and only had broken wing bone and some broked ribs. Unit was still running after being dumped on both side with extensive damage - went out and purchased another of same.. Ok, it was a different color.

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  love it! the best fun car every - 2004 Ford Escape
  By xan - October 24 - 10:00 am

  my mom and i both have one. i have the newer model which 2004 and she has a 2001. there the best car. there so comfy and sleek. the sound system is really good. the gas could be better but its an suv so it wont really be great. all i can say is that its the best.

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  Ford Escape - 2004 Ford Escape
  By keidem - October 24 - 10:00 am

  This is a great little SUV, it does a an outstanding job and is fun to drive. Easy to get around with and good in bad weather.

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  Not Bad - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Sal - October 15 - 2:46 am

  I just got my Escape a couple weeks ago. I noticed it was a louder ride then expected. Engine noise is a bit much but turning up the radio does help, lol. The ride is a bit stiff but it does say truck on the sticker. Getting the jack out does take some effort but I will say it has a better lug wrench then my old van. Pick up is a bit slugish but ok. Its a week old and I am not going to really romp on it yet. My biggest "not worth it" is that the factory step bars are to close to the body. They work well if putting stuff on the roof but not for a step in to it. Over all I am happy with it but time will tell.

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  Worse MPG than my 97 Explorer! - 2008 Ford Escape
  By ShadowVFX - October 14 - 7:56 am

  My family and I have owned Ford vehicles for over a decade now and all of us have been pleased with our vehicles. Recently, when it was time for me to purchase a new car, I looked to the Ford Escapes to replace my beloved 97 Ford Explorer. I ended up purchasing a 4 cylinder 08 Escape and I must say, I have not been impressed with it. I bought this car as a fuel-efficient replacement to my 97 Explorer. What I found was that my new 08 Escape actually less fuel efficient than my older Explorer, which was made over a decade earlier. I was so impressed with my 97 Explorer that it blinded me into a brand loyalty towards Ford. But now after buying this new, smaller,

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  Go Anywhere - 2005 Ford Escape
  By ecila5200 - October 9 - 10:46 pm

  This was my first winter driving experience with the 2005 Ford Escape and I couldnt ask for a safer drive. We get a lot of snow here in Newfoundland and winter driving can take its toll on some vehicles. But the Ford Escape came through with flying colors.

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  Very reliable, practical car. - 2012 Ford Escape
  By Jake Sprecher - October 6 - 2:51 am

  I have a 2012 Escape with the rare manual transmission. The ride is nothing special, and the drivers seat is a little stiff and unsupportive, but that about sums up my complaints. I havent had a *single* issue in the 40,000 miles that Ive owned it. I think it looks really sharp, and is reasonably fun to drive with a manual transmission. The 4 cylinder bogs down a bit if youre in the wrong gear, but if you dont mind shifting fairly often it has plenty of power. I average low 20s mpg in town and high 20s on the highway. The steering is the best Ive experienced in any car other than my dads 1987 Porsche 911... its light in effort yet quick enough and very precise. I wish every car had steering feel like the Escape. I would highly recommend this car to anyone looking for a practical, reliable and reasonably fun to drive vehicle.

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  Never judge a book by its cover! - 2017 Ford Escape
  By Sarah - October 4 - 6:37 pm

  I just purchased a 2017 Ford Escape AWD 2.0 L. It is my first SUV and so far I love it! The style is lacking but I didnt care once I was behind the wheel. This whip handles the road well, it has quick acceleration, and surprisingly it has sharp maneuverability. The ride is so comfortable especially having black leather heated seats! I agree that the inside panel could use some updating but it does have optional voice/touch navigation and ambient lighting with a variety of color choices. The cabin has plenty of room and its easy to get in/out of. I did drive the 1.5L and it just didnt cut it, it seemed very resistive to acceleration. I test drove the Hyundai Santa Fe, Honda CRV, and Kia Sorento the styling and amenities were tempting (especially in the Santa Fe) but the comfort, quietness, and acceleration just didnt cut it for me.