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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  Uncomfortable Seats/Poor Gas Mileage - 2006 Ford Escape
  By Christine - May 3 - 11:13 pm

  I have been driving my Escape for 6 months and I just cant escape the fact that the seats are hard as rocks and are very uncomfortable. Ford needs to go back to the drawing board and take some hints from other manufacturers (Honda, Volvo). The only saving grace is that Im in my vehicle for a few minutes a day (2 mile commute). Trips of an hour or more and Im miserable. Just for the record I bought a Limited with every option (premium leather seats w/ heat). The gas mileage is poor (onboard computer says Im getting 15.4 mpg). I have to use Premium gas to keep engine from pinging after working with the dealer. After only 6 months I will probably start looking for something else.

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  Id Buy it Again - 2005 Ford Escape
  By cekestner - April 27 - 4:20 pm

  My wife had an 02 Escape XLT but she wanted a Honda Element, so we traded in the Escape. When I got in the position of being able to purchase one myself, I bought this one. Its red all over with a black interior. (1st choice was Chromecoat Yellow, but stupid Ford killed THAT colour a couple years ago.) It doesnt seem to corner quite as quickly as the 02 did (maybe they softened up the ride?), but it rides a bit softer. It also doesnt seem to stop quite as quickly as the 02. Then again, it doesnt soil up the front wheels with LOTS of brake dust like the 02 did. I hate that they moved the spare under the car, because the in-car tire well gave added storage in the 02.

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  Mine was built on Friday - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Justanotherfordguy - April 26 - 3:53 am

  The vehicle is fun to drive, sure footed in snow, and a great family vehicle. But the build quality is questionable and I couldnt see this vehicle lasting more than 60k miles without a lot of repairs. My Escape has has multiple issues due to a water leak under or near the firewall. This has caused multiple electical issues from random power accessories failing, radio turning on when key is removed and turned off, wet floors, and the nice smell of mildew. Multiple trips to the dealer has yet to bring my truck back to new - so its going to be traded in on something else - possibly an Escape. Mine was just built on Friday. :(

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  Hard to beat this package - 2003 Ford Escape
  By indiatree - April 17 - 10:00 am

  The new Limited is fantastic. Plastic black bumpers and trim have been replaced on the Limited with all metal, painted, unicolor bumpers/trim which VASTLY improve the look of the vehicle. Build quality, grade of two-tone leather seats, and grade of materials is MUCH improved from previous years. (My brother has a 2000 XLT). Drive is easy and fun. Good acceleration. Road and wind noise have been reduced noticably from prior years. Comes standard with all available options: heated premium leather seats, premium sound system, sunroof (in CA), towing package, reverse sensing system, power front seat, auto head lamps, + others.

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  Different - 2008 Ford Escape
  By jonkit99 - April 15 - 8:50 am

  Turned in 05 Focus 4dr hatch w/12000 miles. Would have gotten another but Ford discontinued hatch. Need a vehicle to lug around all sorts of stuff (Home Depot) etc. The Escape XLT 4cyl auto. was all that was left for my budget. Stayed with Ford for great discount. Car is different. The 4cyl auto is not as snappy as the Focus but adequate. Like the driving height but miss the telescoping wheel. Electric power steering is great as is the handling. It has a very solid feel when driving. Seats a bit hard but may improve with use. 4 speed auto should be 5 and is not as smooth shifting as the Focus. Cruise control fine. Interior satisfactory.

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  I do 1000+ miles a week 2yrs Its great! - 2003 Ford Escape
  By Striz - April 11 - 10:00 am

  I bought the escape in 2001 when they first came out and I have about 120,000 miles 0n it and, I do about 1000 miles per week and it still runs like new. This is one of the best cars I have ever had. i really havent had any trouble with it only minor things. I would recommend this small SUV to anybody who wants a reliable car.

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  Escape Fits Our Needs - 2003 Ford Escape
  By John E. Baker - April 11 - 10:00 am

  We looked at a number of "mini-SUVs." The Ford Escape fit our needs best. Its the right size (not too big and not too small), were confident that it will be safe and reliable, and its fun to drive.

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  Not too bad for Fords first attempt - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Camper - April 10 - 9:53 am

  Living in Michigan, you get dirty looks and raised eyebrows if you dont buy American. Michigan is also very spread out, with my daily commute being 35 miles each way, mostly freeway. This SUV is just a regular 4 cylinder car at freeway speeds (70 mph), with no benefit of fuel economy. Engine sounds terrible at 70 mph. But it is great for city driving (particularly stop and go traffic). Ford says the towing capacity is only 750 lbs., which is very non-SUV like. We would not buy this again. Toyota Highlander hybrid is coming, and we are trading in the Ford for Toyota. The Toyota is much more comfortable and can tow our 1500 lb. pop up camper. So much for the eyebrows.

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  awesome Escape - 2005 Ford Escape
  By tammie word - April 1 - 2:43 pm

  I previously owned a 2002 Ford Escape XLT and have never been happier with a vehicle. Its the perfect size for a non-truck person. There is plenty of space and the seating is great. I am now the owner of a 2006 Escape XLT Sport; needless to say Id rather be driving my Escape instead of sleeping. The ride is perfect and the new interior design is much more to my liking than the 02. Ford has come up with a winner for years to come!

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  Great SUV - 2004 Ford Escape
  By shakey - March 30 - 2:00 am

  Owned it for almost a year and 60000km (37000 miles) with absolutely no problems to report. Great 4wd in snow. Unless you are very short, dont waste your money on side bars - all they do is get your pants dirty when you enter/exit the vehicle. My best fuel mileage has been 29mpg (imperial gallons) on the a long highway trip with cruise control at approx 65 mph. This vehicle has outstanding performance with the 200hp v6 duratec. I would recommend this vehicle.