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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  Fix or repair daily still holds true - 2010 Ford Escape
  By Designergal - January 15 - 2:29 am

  The vehicle is very nice to drive, the color was perfect for me. I was so impressed with Ford, this vehicle was loaded and at a great price. I was in love, but that soon ended and we are about to break up. I purchased the car 11/09 and 2 weeks later the headliner started comming down. The wires on the rearview mirror are exposed and a loud chirping/howling noise began with each take off. Ford is aware of the nosie,but has not come up with a fix as of yet. When the repairs to the brand new 2010 are complete, I will run not walk to get rid of this cute little rip off of a car. The lady who said that the seats stain from just water is right.

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  2010 Ford Escape XLT FWD - 2010 Ford Escape
  By NDEMARTI - January 14 - 11:31 am

  We looked at/researched several small- mid size SUVs and pleased with our 12/22/09 purchase. We were not interested in cross over vehicles. I was coming from a Toyota RAV4. We did purchase leather seating and moonroof/sync pkg with Serius radio. The Escape handles well in the toughest road conditions (no annoying road noise), very comfortable and roomy. Have not found any cons yet. This is the first American vehicle we have purchased and obviously, highly recommend the Escape XKT.

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  Very Unhappy!! - 2008 Ford Escape
  By kiana1 - January 11 - 6:35 pm

  We purchased this vehicle and loved it until all the trouble lights started coming on after you started it and lost all power including steering,odo,etc.4x now it has been in shop ranging from battery to computer. Most unhappy, never be buying Ford again!

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  The Escape was the best SUV for us! - 2010 Ford Escape
  By Bocaboy - January 11 - 1:16 pm

  I am really impressed with our Escape. We chose it after comparing it to the Forester, RAV4 and CR-V. We liked the fact that the tailgate opened up and that the window was usable because of the tire being mounted underneath the car. The fit and finish are excellent and the car doesnt have a squeak or rattle in it. I really love Sync and think it is the best implementation of electronics of any car in this class. Ford really hit a home run in that area of the interior design. The exposed wiring at the back of the adjustable mirror and on the rear window are not worthy of the remaining workmanship that went into this car. Otherwise, this car is a terrific value and very well manufactured.

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  So far, Im pleased - 2008 Ford Escape
  By mariposa7684 - January 7 - 8:37 am

  I bought my 2008 xlt used with 11k miles. After almost a year of ownership, Im happy with the overall performance. Nice and roomy with good visibility. Handling is smooth. Could perform better in snow--dont think the OEM continentals are so great. Had several warranty issues (leaking transmission fluid, defective CD player, stained seats) and they were all taken care of efficiently by the local ford dealership.

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  Very Nice Small SUV - 2006 Ford Escape
  By JimmyD - January 6 - 8:05 am

  Have owned my 06 Escape for almost a year now. Great Vermont car - great in snow / bad weather. Had no problems until recently - had one ABS speed sensor go bad. The Ford dealer quickly diagnosed and fixed. Snappy performance with the 6 cyl, tows my 17 foot runabout boat without a problem. Roomy for a small SUV. OK gas mileage (22mpg). Seats very comfortable but stain easily (with just water). Ive steam cleaned several times. Scotchguard helps.

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  Much better than a car - 2009 Ford Escape
  By hammer - January 6 - 1:36 am

  My wife and I drove the Escape locally and short highway rides for the first 1000 miles to break it in. Then we took a driving vacation from Chicago to Denver and back. What a dream vehicle to travel in. Four adults rode in this vehicle comfortably for 2800 miles. We really love this suv. We bought the XLT with leather and the sirius satelite system. Nice ride.

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  9 months in on 2005 V6 2wd - 2005 Ford Escape
  By invictarocks - January 3 - 8:27 pm

  I bought this car after a lot of research on Subaru Forrester, RAV4, Honda CRV and the Escape. I did some test drives, and the Forrester was the fastest and funnest, but a little small, and my buying decision came right after a bad experience with a Subaru dealership. The RAV4 seat was unbearable in the "fold down, kicking back" position, and sitting on the back with the hatch up was designed OUT of the model years I was looking at. I didnt like the way the RAV4 looked driving down the road from behind, as the rear suspension didnt inspire much confidence. I LOVE my Escape, and its styling. The gas mileage was a little disappointing at 20.

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  Escape from the lemon - 2010 Ford Escape
  By Sterling10 - January 2 - 11:34 am

  Do not beleive the automotive press! They complain about the exterior and interior design, as well as driving dynamics...They are wrong! The exterior looks like an SUV should. The design is bold and chunky, not soft and overly curvaceous. The interior design is pleasing to look at and touch plenty of soft touch plastic/vinyl in all the right places. The combination of colors (varying shades of tan and faux brushed aluminum) mix nicely with the overall layout and design of the instrument panel, center stack, and seating. The driving dynamics are a perfect compromise between car-like smooth and truck-like rough. Much better and quieter than my 2005 Mustang (the lemon)!

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  Escape Limited - 2010 Ford Escape
  By Ford guy - January 1 - 8:33 pm

  Just purchased a 2010 Escape Limited 4 cylinder with 6A. Enough power when needed. No trouble passing on the interstate. Sounds underpowered compared to a V-6 but doesnt handle that way. Quiet interior and smooth ride. Sync is ok but I have not fully used it yet. Would be nice to know what it will cost when the three year trial is up. Goes through snow very well. At first I was concerned about the Michelin low resistant tires in the snow but they work fine.