Ford Escape is a compact SUV that meets all needs

Published 11:26 am Monday, January 15, 2024

Is there a compact crossover SUV more versatile than the Ford Escape? It is available with front- or all-wheel-drive, the choice of four engines (including a conventional and plug-in hybrid), and is the basis of the wildly retro, off-road capable Ford Bronco Sport.

Despite all that, it is easy to overlook the Escape in the crowded compact crossover SUV field. It is conservatively styled and does not call attention to itself, except for the sporty-looking ST-Line models. A 2023 redesign included a bolder front fascia but nothing like the polarizing ones on some competitors. The interior design in equally restrained, to the point that many controls are on the bottom of the touch screen, almost eliminating all buttons and knobs on the dash.

But, unless you want a serious off-road SUV like the Bronco Sport, there is a version of the Escape that will meet your needs. The base front-wheel-drive version is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine that gets good mileage. The more powerful turbocharged 2.0-liter four increases performance. The 2.5-liter gas/electric hybrid version competes against the best hybrids in its class. And the plug-in hybrid can go up to 37 miles on electricity alone, second only behind the Toyota RAV4 Prime, which is not as refined.

By chance, I recently tested the Bronco Sport just before the Escape, and was surprised how differently they drove. Although both were equipped with the 2.0-liter engine that produces 250 horsepower, an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive, the Bronco felt more spirited, despite having a one-inch lift, off-road tuned suspension, and larger all-terrain tires to improve off-road capabilities. In contrast, the Escape felt more grown up, with a solid ride that parents with young children should appreciate.

The interior of the Escape was also more sophisticated, with a larger display and higher quality materials. That shouldn’t be surprising, since Ford is invoking the vibe of the original 1966 Bronco with its new version. But it was clear who is supposed to be the adult in the room.

Styling aside, the biggest difference was the selectable drive modes. The Escape offers the usual settings from Eco to Normal, Sport and Slippery. Those in the Bronco Sport were more off-road oriented. Called G.O.A.T. for Go Over Any Terrain, they add Sand, plus Mud/Ruts and Rock Crawl in the upper trims. But if you mostly want better traction in rain, light to moderate snow, and basic dirt roads, the Escape’s optional AWD system should do just fine, and save you a lot of money.

In a week of test driving, my fully loaded 2023 Escape Platinum with the 2.0-liter turbo and AWD was always comfortable, solid feeling on the road, and fully able to keep up with even freeway driving thanks to its 250-horsepower engine. Though not as fast as some competitors, the performance was more than adequate in all driving conditions.

Ford introduced the Escape as a 2001 model as its first crossover. The compact SUV was jointly produced by Mazda and mechanically similar versions were sold as the Mazda Tribute and more upscale Mercury Mariner. It was among the first vehicle of any kind to include a hybrid option.

The original styling was similar to the “cute ute” Honda CRV and Toyota RAV4 of the day, but the second-generation Eacape introduced as 2007 models was larger and looked more truck like. The hybrid option continued and a limited number of plug-in hybrids were offered in a limited number of states.

The third generation Escape introduced as a 2012 model was sleeker and featured a much more modern interior. Both hybrid options were dropped but it was available with the choice of three different small four-cylinder turbocharged engines. The fourth and current generation was introduced as a 2020 model. It continued offering turbo engines but also brought back the hybrid option and a much more available plug-in hybrid model.

The Ford Escape is offered in seven trim levels: Active, ST-Line, ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite, Platinum, and Plug-in Hybrid. Advanced technology includes available Alexa Built-In as well as SYNC 4 with available Enhanced Voice Recognition and Connected Built-in Navigation. Also available is Ford Co-Pilot360 Technology with Intersection Assist 2.0 and Blind Spot Assist, and a 13.2-inch display. Starting prices range from $29,495 to $40,500, which means there is version for just about every budget.

After 23 years in production, the fourth generation Ford Escape is the most refined ever, with versions that compete well with every other compact crossover SUV on the market. Don’t overlook it.

2023 Ford Escape

Base price: $29,495 (Base)

Price as tested: $42,465 (Platinum AWD)

Type: Compact crossover SUV

Engines: 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder (181 hp, 190 lbs-ft); 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (250 hp, 280 lbs-ft – as tested); hybrid and PHEV (2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, two electric motors (203-209 combined hp)

Transmissions: 8-speed automatic (as tested); continuously variable (hybrids)

EPA estimated mileage: 23/31 (as tested); 42/37 (hybrid)

Overall length: 180.1 inches

Curb weight: 3494 pounds

Final assembly: Louisville, Kentucky