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 SUV - 2012 Ford Escape
  By brendino140 - January 5 - 3:44 pm

  This was my first ford vehicle and probably will not be my last. I got the 2012 model because of the big changes for the 2013 crossover model. The escape provides a nice ride and great handling. I feel very safe driving in poor weather conditions. The interior design is great and provides great visibility. But, I recommend the V6 model for the best driving experience.

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  No heat in the back seats - 2013 Ford Escape
  By jriley3 - December 31 - 10:14 am

  I am very pleased with my vehicle. It handles well and is great on gas. The only problems I have are there are no cupholders or vents for heat amd AC for the back seats. When you live in Maryland, which gets really cold and hot, there is a need for cool air and heat, especially for small children, who now have to sit with blankets across their legs until the spring. I was told by Ford to use the vents from the front and turn them toward the back. Thanks Ford!!! Who would think to check for vents in the back seats when purchasing a car? I thought it was a standard. So the new thing is to pay more and get additional vents in our vehicles to keep our children warm? Really?!

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  3013 Escape SEL 2.0 EcoBoost - 2013 Ford Escape
  By yblockv8 - December 29 - 2:07 pm

  Have had this car for 7 weeks. After 900 miles on the odometer we drove it from our home in Las Vegas to Phoenix and as we entered Sun City the car recorded 30.2 MPG and there are plenty of hills to go up and down. Around Vegas were constantly seeing 24-24.5 MPG. Power is awesome! We keep pretty much to the posted speed limit and use cruise control when applicable. I have no idea WHY other 2013 Escape owners complain about poor economy. Keep in mind this car weighs over 4,000 lbs. We drove Expeditions for 12 years (2 of them) and always got 20 MPG on the same trip.

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  Beware of Ford Escape, Beware! - 2008 Ford Escape
  By ahwilson - December 16 - 11:44 am

  I purchased a 2008 Ford Escape in August 2007, and about 8 days after purchase the accelerator cable line broke. The dealer chose to repair the care, even though I expressed concern and worry about keeping the car. I immediately notified National Highway Safety. The dealer could not explain the malfunction. Cable line broke again at about 15,000 miles. This car has multiple problems. Windows freeze, and wont roll up..even in summer. The fabric seats stains very quickly and car offered cleaning of seats and carpet for additional. Every time I presented it for cleaning, the dealer never had appropriate staff. This add-on cost is a rip off. The keys to car wear down. I hate it!

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  A solid value - 2012 Ford Escape
  By ripdaddy - December 16 - 3:13 am

  Leased the 4-cyl Escape and took a 1500 mile trip. The four cylinder is adequate. Passing power on the highway was pretty good. The only problem would be long steep grades. The 6 speed auto shifted smoothly. It didnt hesitate to downshift when needed. The engine only turns over 1700 RPM at 60 MPH. The first leg of the trip was mostly interstate with about 100 miles of Ozark hills and twisties at the end. I have an easy foot and averaged 30MPG going and 28MPG returning against a 20mph head wind, lightly loaded. This is a great around town vehicle. I wouldnt want to take on the Rockies, though.

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  56k miles on Escape XLT and blown head gasket!! - 2008 Ford Escape
  By mariposa7684 - December 8 - 9:25 am

  Between last oil change/inspection @dealership (everything looked good), and the one this week, car developed an oil leak. No oil on driveway to tip me off. Leakage seen when car on lift-oil was being sprayed on underside. Since source of leak not readily obvious, had dye test done. When car seen yesterday, quite a bit of oil had leaked out. Test points to blown head gasket. Aside from leak, had absolutely no indication there was a problem: no heavy exhaust, no idiot lights on. The bright side is that it was caught before I broke down, killed the engine, etc. Im posting this mainly to vent. One thing is for absolute sure: I will never, ever buy another Ford.

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  EXCELLENT SO FAR! - 2013 Ford Escape
  By myescape2013 - December 3 - 2:41 am

  3,000 miles and very pleased so far. The center console armrest is too short for comfort and armrests on the doors are poorly designed and useless on long trips. Fun to drive, feels solid and handles very well. Gas mileage is quite good but gas tank capacity is too small. Hand brake on the console is annoying...I prefer the foot operated ones. Overall a nice vehicle but a bit overpriced for what you get.

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  Lessons from KIA - 2013 Ford Escape
  By buddyn - December 2 - 2:03 pm

  The Ford advertized mpg on this vehicle is a joke. On flat AZ hwy at 75 mph, with ac off you get 25 mpg. No way near the advertized 33mpg . The EPA went after KIA & Hyundai why dont they go after ford. Don,t buy this car if you expect good milage youll be very dissapointed.

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  A car that I am forcing to love - 2013 Ford Escape
  By foxdared - December 2 - 12:14 pm

  First of all, I do love this car. But 3x at ford dealer for the nav system that works 5-10 mins after your running seems not worth the cash I paid for this. Basically told me the last time that there was nothing they could do. I drive from buildings to and from small suburbs, and its the same story. It has severe difficulty to connect. My ford touch also is super glitchy. Wife has a toyota and night/day difference in computer systems. Also fuel economy regardless of driver or babying, will get you 19-22mpg. Using 87 octane costco, tires checked, no load, long roads. So if you know those 2 things and accept them, the car is amazing. Do not believe other estimates as i have when i got this:(

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  97K miles, 2nd Escape & its a great car - 2008 Ford Escape
  By christofferson - December 1 - 9:35 pm

  2008 is my 2nd Escape, previous 2003 that transmission went out at 119K. This one I have 97K miles on it today, and have had no major failures or problems. I like it and it was an excellent buy and value. Mileage is good for a 4X4 and it has handled very well in water, mud and sand (Rocky Point, MX--not 4-wheeling, just the circumstances--rare). I am buying a 2012 right now. I dont like 2013 body style 3.0-V6 This Escape & all small SUVs, have lot of road noise. Seats get tiring when you driving long. Thats the nature of what you get and what you pay. Buy good Michelin tires. People complain about seats staining--very easy--use carpet cleaner or expecially Oxyclean---works!