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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  The best buy for the money. - 2009 Ford Escape
  By Leggir - July 13 - 12:43 am

  This is my first Ford Escape and I love it. It was a toss up between it and the Mitsu Outlander but ultimately won because of maintenance costs. It handles like a car but doesnt dissapoint in off-road uses. Ive taken it in 12" inches of snow out in a field, through at least 18" inches of water on a 4x4 track and its handled admirably. In fact Ive gone farther than some 4x4 pickups. Gas mileage is 29MPG (US) on the highway which is where I do most of my driving. Everyone whos road in it is impressed.

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  Love my 2018 Ford Escape S - 2018 Ford Escape
  By Matt A. - July 12 - 5:58 am

  This review is for the base model. I thought I needed all the “bell’s & whistles” and discovered I don’t. This compact CUV has the same 2.5 liter 4-cylinder engine that my 2016 Ford Fusion SE had. I never had any problems or issues with this engine. Somehow this engine seems more spirited in the 2018 Ford Escape. I’m more than satisfied. The Escape has enough interior room for four—five is fine, but not comfortable, depending on the girth of the rear occupants. Leg room is excellent for any 6-footer or shorter. It’s a bit cramped in the rear seat if the front seats are moved too far back. I’m a techie by heart and find the telematics on this CUV to do everything I need from my ride. Having dealt with the SYNC with MyFord Touch in my previous vehicle, I find the base SYNC 1.1 version much easier to navigate. I can deal with the buttons versus a touchscreen. The only negative point here is the small 4.5 inch screen above the center stack. I can work with that too. Of note is the electronic parking brake that works with a button. Gone is the handbrake lever which allows for more cubbies for small items. The exterior was updated in 2017. The Escape was given a redesigned front with a black grille that I find sporty. Tail lamps were also redesigned. I find the exterior to be attractive and good-looking amongst other compact CUVs. I’ve only had my Escape for two weeks and am impressed with its capabilities. I’ll come back in six months to give an update.

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  Fun Fun Fun - 2009 Ford Escape
  By lisa - July 10 - 8:53 pm

  I went from driving a Ford 500 Sedan to my new Ford Escape. I absolutely loveeeee this vehicle. I purchased the 3.OL V6 engine, Audiophile Sound System, the 17" Chrome-Clad Aluminum Wheels, and Sunroof. It is very fun to drive, handles like a dream, sharp to look at! I will never go back to driving a car. Cant wait until winter to feel safe and secure in my area driving my new 4 Wheel Drive. Oh! and I love the color, Torch Red !! WOOOO HOOO! 48 years old and lovinn life.

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  Excellent Choice - 2009 Ford Escape
  By Rich - July 10 - 12:13 pm

  Exceptional value - Had a 1999 Mercury Mountaineer with 179,000 miles that was in excellent conditioned, but decided to get a newer vehicle. The Escape has all the options except GPS (I have a portable GPS)and trailer hitch, I have just under 5,000 miles on it and averaging combined MPG of 25.4 which is well above the EPA expectations.

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  XLT 4WD Premium - 2002 Ford Escape
  By TRC - July 9 - 10:00 am

  Ive put 3000 miles on the XLT Premium I bought a month ago, and am very satisified with it. The V6 has plenty of power & a solid feel. Only downside is that Im averaging just over 20 mpg at 70 mph highway speeds. The ABS brakes are very smooth. It took a few tries to get the drivers seat adjusted right, but now its comfortable even on long drives. Plenty of cargo space with the seat folded, and flipping the seats is easy. Only problem so far was with the 6-disc CD changer. I loaded a disc but it wouldnt play or eject. A stereo tech replaced it in 5 minutes and the new one works great.

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  i love my new SUV - 2008 Ford Escape
  By r3b3cki - July 8 - 10:38 pm

  I just bought my escape and i totally love it, from the inside out, i like thats its a suv so i can sit up higer and see traffic better as apposed to being in a car being short and all its kinda nice i can also get in and out easily with out having to do the ole heave ho action getting into my suv, it rides smooth over speed bumps and on the road. i love that it gets good gas mialage for a suv. plus its easy to drive i dont feel like im driving a boat it feels like im driving a car but im up a lil higher i highly recomend this suv to anyone!

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  A Few Disappointments - 2008 Ford Escape
  By Abbygirl - July 8 - 3:48 pm

  I researched this vehicle thoroughly, and was so happy when I finally purchased it. About a week after purchase, a white residue began showing up on the cloth seats when exposed to moisture (I made my purchase in December, in the mountains where snow is abundant). The transmission cooler went out about a mother after purchase. About a month after that, the exterior paint began chipping on the window moldings. All of the exterior moldings needed to be replaced.

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  Ford Escape! A Great Alternative - 2004 Ford Escape
  By Stick09 - July 6 - 10:00 am

  This has been an excellent vehicle despite I have to fill the tank up every week. Only get about 230 miles per tank out of a 15 gal tank. Thats a low 15mpg. Otherwise, I love it!

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  LOVED MY YELLOW ESCAPE! - 2004 Ford Escape
  By KNSBETH - July 6 - 10:00 am

  I purchased my Ford Escape after owning a Jeep Cherokee. I loved it....loved how it handled, looked, and performed overall. We moved to California in 2001 and drove it from Florida to California with my 2 Labrador Retrievers in the back...with the rear seat down of course..very comfortable for them. Drove it back to Florida when we recently moved back East. I always get compliments on it, especially the color...

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  Escape-in - 2004 Ford Escape
  By sdj - July 6 - 10:00 am

  I love my new Escape. The gas mileage is ok but not bad. I love the 6 CD stereo. Its great when your on the road and cant find a good radio station. I havent had it very long (2/04) but I havent had any problems so far.