Pros: Good acceleration with 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine; hands-free power liftgate is a super-handy option; nicely finished interior
Cons: Top-line Titanium models can get quite expensive; disappointing acceleration from 1.5-liter turbo engine
CG Says: The Ford Escape gets a refresh for 2017 that includes updated styling, a new engine option, newly available technology and safety features, and some minor interior revisions. The base 2.5-liter engine carries over unchanged, but a new turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder with 179 horsepower replaces the previous 173-hp 1.6-liter turbo. The topline engine is again a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, but it’s been revised to make 245 horsepower (up from 231). All engines use a 6-speed automatic transmission, and both turbocharged engines offer all-wheel drive and now have a fuel-saving automatic stop/start feature. The Sync 3 infotainment system now offers a Sync Connect smartphone app, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. Newly available safety features include adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning and brake support, lane-departure mitigation, and driver-fatigue monitor. Escape is smooth, refined, and surprisingly engaging to drive for an SUV. Interiors are comfortable and nicely finished, and cargo space isn’t bad. On the whole, there is a lot about the Escape that’s impressive, and the list of improvements and new features for 2017 bolster its standing in its highly competitive class. Top-line Titanium models can get quite expensive, but we think a modestly equipped SE hits the sweet spot for performance, features, and value.
| Class | Compact SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Ford |
| Nation of Manufacturer | USA |
| Base Prices | 2WD S: $23,600 2WD SE: $25,100 AWD SE: $27,495 2WD Titanium: $29,100 AWD Titanium: $31,495 |
| Base Engine 2.5-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 168 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 21 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 29 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 179 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 22-23 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 28-30 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 245 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 20-22 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 27-29 |
