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:

• 

  Factory safety checks - 2005 Ford Escape
  By KNS - July 28 - 4:50 pm

  I purchased my Escape on 7/2/05. On 7/8/05, with only 436 miles on the vehicle, the power steering went out while pulling into my driveway (power steering fluid spewed all over engine). SUV was towed to dealership and found out that power steering switch had been installed upside down and not screwed in. New switch installed on 7/9 and engine cleaned "as best as they could". Bothersome that the vehicle passed safety inspection prior to delivery to dealership. IF power steering had gone out while I was driving on the highway, it could have caused a major accident. No apology from Ford dealership at all ... just commentary from them that its a good thing that there is a full warranty!

• 

  Better than my previous Jeep Cherokee - 2002 Ford Escape
  By cincinnati - July 22 - 2:00 am

  The Escape is fun, designed well, quiet, comfortable and handles very well. I was a solid Jeep person for 30 years until I drove the Escape. Better gas mileage, more for your money with a corresponding lower price. I paid more for my last Jeep Cherokee four years ago than I paid for my Escape and the options on both are about the same. I got the 4X4 XLT model which comes standard with a lot of options. The only real option that was on the Escape was the Mach stereo system which has 300 watts, seven speakers, and a 6 CD changer. This thing rocks! And the way the weather has been lately, I may still get to try it in the snow!

• 

  Ford Escape is Great - 2002 Ford Escape
  By ltjohn - July 22 - 2:00 am

  fantastic vehicle, very comfortable, the features of a full size SUV but in a compact package. Only bad feature is it is slightly top-heavy and thus prone to roll over if a sharp high speed turn is made. I have the full opion package with the leather seats and center console. Everything is really convenient. I will definitely buy another when the time comes

• 

  Best one yet - 2008 Ford Escape
  By rclvnv - July 18 - 11:06 pm

  I continue to be impressed with the look and feel of quality I percieve in this vehicle.I drove both the 4cyl and the 6 cyl, and frankly didnt see that the difference in power was significant enough to justify the extra price or lower mpg of the 6 cyl.The interior, a camel color is very well done, and I like the Light Sage Clearcoat color of the paint, as well.I live in a hot climate, so light colors are best, but I was very tired of white, the green is a welcome change. The car is very quiet, so far.

• 

  Luv my Ford Escape - 2004 Ford Escape
  By UFree03 - July 18 - 2:00 am

  I love the way it looks and the way it handles. I feel very safe behind the wheel of my Escape and have been very pleased so far. The only problem I can think of, is that the gas tank is too small. I understand that SUVs arent that great on mileage, but if the tank was larger, I wouldnt feel like Im at the gas station every 3,4 days. Other than that...I LOVE IT!

• 

  Disappointing - 2013 Ford Escape
  By crd1029 - July 17 - 9:24 pm

  I had been researching small SUVs and hatchbacks for months, anxiously awaiting several of the new offerings. One was the 2013 Ford Escape. My wife and I arrived at the dealer the day their first base S Escape arrived. We really liked the exterior look of the car and were excited to drive it. After 20 min., we were very disappointed. The levers and knobs were cheap plastic and the seats were very hard. The ride was extremely stiff and we felt every ripple in the road. The engine was buzzy and loud starting from the rest position. We quickly realized this car may be all right for zipping around town, but would tire you out on any longer trip. We ended up buying a Nissan Rogue. MUCH nicer- fun

• 

  great suv - 2005 Ford Escape
  By cag - July 14 - 10:00 am

  great suv also own 2001 escape with 40000 miles on it never had a problem with it drives great

• 

  Love Our 2012 Escape - 2012 Ford Escape
  By Jackie - July 12 - 11:33 am

  Vehicle: 2012 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A) The only choices on "trim" were for Hybrids, which ours is not, but I wanted to write a review because were so happy with our 2012 Ford Escape XLT. Now that we own a 2012 Ford Escape, I look for them on the road so I can admire the smart design, which is sporty and fun, from the metallic paint, the cargo carrier on the roof, the side runners, and the rugged looking grille, our 2012 is the best looking year for the Escape, IMHO. We had a checklist of things we wanted in our next vehicle and the 2012 Escape has it all and I love everything about it. Were very happy with the cabin size, not too big, yet we have enjoyed all the room weve ever needed and then some. The headlamps are clear and bright and I appreciate the way the car stays lit until I can get out and to the house at night. We took a long trip shortly after purchase and had plenty of space and comfortable seating. Both of us are tall people and the drivers side can be a knee bumper until you learn the cars geography, and my 64" husband has to duck his head to keep from bumping it upon entering the car but he says that its still the easiest car hes ever gotten in or out of. Weve had our Escape for nine months and had no problems, mechanical or otherwise. Since up-sizing from our Ford Escort, weve noticed a huge difference in comfort and sound reduction from the road. We were fortunate to find our Escape with low mileage, so we expect to enjoy many years of ownership. I read a complaint about the back seat being a pain to put down (the headrests have to come off), but for us this is not a problem since well probably never have to utilize the entire back of the car. And if we have to take those measures to lower the back seat, then well just do what we have to do. Its a back saver to easily load and unload groceries and have plenty of room to accommodate a days worth of shopping or a long trip. We felt we got a great deal on this SUV. I adore this car and if this is the last car I ever own, Im happy to have it be our 2012 Escape! November 2016: We have owned our Escape for over a year now, taken two long trips, and still love it! We see lots of 2012 Escapes on the road and always mention to each other that they are so good looking and that we feel we made the best choice in buying this vehicle. Have had no problems, mechanical or otherwise. We are believers in timely oil changes so we take it to the dealership, Gilbert & Baugh, for that (they are wonderful to deal with!). Even if I could, I would not part with my 2012 Ford Escape. Its perfect size , great gas mileage, reliability, and sharp design make this car the vehicle we designed in our heads when we dreamed of having an SUV. My initial review shortly after purchase in September 2015 still holds...we love it!

• 

  Engine just stalled after 8,000 miles - 2002 Ford Escape
  By scareddriver - July 4 - 2:00 am

  I have a 2002 XLT Ford Escape with 8,000 miles. Today I was driving home from work and the engine, and battery lights came on. The power steering went out and the brakes barely worked. When I finally got the car to stop it died. Luckily I put it into park and it re- started. I am scared to think of what would have happened only 5 minutes earlier when I was on the freeway. I read a lot of bad reviews about the Escape and its stalling problems. I thought maybe it wouldnt happen to me, but it did. I am afraid to take it into the shop and have to hear them tell me that nothing is wrong. This is a real shame.

• 

  Awesome Car - 2003 Ford Escape
  By lbhsrays - July 4 - 2:00 am

  I am 16 and i just got a licence. I was lookin for a small car like a Eclipe but my mom said for safety to get a SUV. I love the Escape now that i have it. Its awesome inside and out, and drives fast. I could afford it, and its a good car even for teens. (all my freinds love it)