Ford Escape
Ford Escape Titanium
Ford Escape Titanium

2017 Ford Escape Titanium

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.

The Facts
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

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