Ford Escape
Ford Escape Titanium
Ford Escape Titanium

2018 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: After its refresh last year, Ford Escape is little changed for 2018. A new SEL model with leather upholstery and power liftgate has been added, while SE and Titanium gain standard equipment. Three engines are offered: a base 168-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, a turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder with 179 hp, and the topline engine is a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with 245 hp. All engines use a 6-speed automatic transmission, and both turbocharged engines offer all-wheel drive and have a fuel-saving automatic stop/start feature. The Sync 3 infotainment system offers a Sync Connect smartphone app, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. 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. Top-line Titanium models can get quite expensive, but we think a modestly equipped SEL 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 Manufacture USA
Base Prices S: $24,845
SE: $26,600
AWD SE: $27,950
SEL: $29,000
AWD SEL: $30,350
Titanium: $33,040
AWD Titanium: $34,390

Base Engine
2.5-liter 4-cylinder (S)
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 (SE, SEL)
Horsepower
179
Std. Transmission
6-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
21-23
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)
20-21
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
27-28

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