2003 Ford Escape Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.39/5 Average
260 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Need more luxury when you Escape? For 2003, Ford will offer a new Limited edition that includes body-color trim, polished aluminum wheels, a reverse sensing system, a Mach audio system with six-disc CD changer, heated front seats and sideview mirrors, premium leather seats, front side airbags and an autodimming rearview mirror. The XLT can also be upgraded this year with an appearance package that includes special wheels, side step bars and body-color exterior trim. For all 2003 Ford Escapes, there are upgraded interior materials and fabrics, an available two-tone cabin color scheme, illuminated power window and lock switches and three new colors. Finally, the XLS 4WD with a four-cylinder engine and a manual transmission is dropped for 2003.

Pros:
  • Powerful V6, large cargo capacity, comfortable interior, car-like handling.
Cons:
  • Weak standard four-cylinder engine, small gas tank size limits range.

User Reviews:

Showing 81 through 90 of 260.00
  • Escape 2003 review - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    I love driving my Escape. It is the first vehicle I ever bought so it will always have a special place in my heart. It is a great car that I have used to move twice, haul material from Home Depot and carted my husband and dog around town. It was nice enough that I wasnt embarrassed to valet park at some of Atlantas nicer restaurants.

  • I WILL BUY ESCAPE AGAIN! - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    I bought mine used in 2003. It had 15K miles on it when I drove it off the lot. I fell in love with it the moment I test drove it. It handles very well, and is very comfortable to travel in. I have 3 children (15, 10 & 6) and they fit into the back seat with room left between them. I love my Escape, and when it is time, I will trade for another one.

  • An overall winner! - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    After 6+ months with the Escape, I still have an high opinion of this SUV. Its spacious interior and great V6 engine are definitely best in class. Reliability has been excellent with no problems.

  • Transmission problems - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    I bought my Escape new, but unfortunately I didnt buy the extended warranty. Even thought it was well maintained, at 54,000 miles the transmission failed. I had it towed to a Ford dealer, and then had to get a rental car to get home, since I was out of town. It cost me over $3000 to get the transmission replaced, plus rental car expenses, with no help from Ford customer service. I cant recommend this car for reliability, since Ive since heard of others with similar problems.

  • Highly Recommend - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    I just traded in my Jeep Larado for a Ford Escape. The difference in the feel of the drive is drastic! The Ford is very smooth drive like a car. I would say the interior is the same size as my Jeep Larado only I feel I sit lower. The back window the opens up in the back trunk is an asset for a person in a hurry. The back is very roomy in comparison the the Honda CRV or the Rav4. Great air/heat system. The CD/sound is wonderful! I feel very safe in this car and saftey was important for us. Wonderful gas milage. For the price I feel I got a lot of car. I did A LOT of research and feel that I chose the best car for our family.

  • Love my Escape! - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    Overall, the Ford Escape is a great buy for the money. After totalling my Explorer in 02, I was hesitant to go to a smaller vehicle but have been extremely happy for over a year now. I feel safe and confident in the Escape... sitting up higher in traffic than a car (for visibility reasons) with a lot of interior room.

  • Ford Escape XLT - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    Escape is fun to drive - smooth riding, transmission is smooth, and has power in the 6cylinder.

  • New Ownder - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    I just bought my Escape a few weeks ago. I did a lot of research before my purchase and am very happy with my decision. I took it on its first road trip and it did great! I would recommend this vehicle to anyone who is looking to buy a Mini SUV.

  • dont know yet - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    My husband and I bought this vehicle used. Its been ok. Going from a Saturn SL2 to this is pretty amazing. It sits so high. Getting in and out is wonderful. So far we are fine with this suv. I dont like where the windshield wipers are next to the steering wheel. The brakes make a lot of noise other than that it seems like Ford did an ok job with this one we will see in the future.

  • Escape (FUN) - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    The escape is the perfect "SUV" for a family of 5. My personal vehicle is a F150 Harley-Davidson...so I take this thing out for fun. The 3.0 V6 and its small size make it fun to drive.

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