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Compact SUV; Built in USA
  • 4-door wagon
  • transverse front-engine/front- or all-wheel drive
Good condition price range: $5,500 – $27,000*


2006 Ford Escape


2006 Ford Escape


2006 Ford Escape

Pros:
  • Cargo room
  • Fuel economy
  • Passenger and cargo room (front seat)
Cons:
  • Acceleration (4-cylinder)
  • Noise
  • Ride

By any name, these compact SUVs are solid, spacious, practical, and pleasant enough to drive. In 2005-06, they ranked as Best Buys. Competitive new-car pricing has made them high-value alternatives to some larger truck-based SUVs that use more gas and don’t have significantly more interior space. Still, these are among the oldest designs in the compact-SUV field. Until the Mariner offered a gasoline/electric powertrain, the Escape Hybrid was America’s only compact SUV hybrid, and it adds fuel savings to Escape’s other attributes. Though base new-vehicle prices have been relatively steep, an Escape doesn’t compromise performance. Escape resale values have been lower than those for most Ford products, which can be good news for used-vehicle shoppers.

Overview

Introduction of a gas/electric Hybrid version topped changes to Ford’s smallest SUV. Again offered with front- or all-wheel drive, the Escape also got a larger base engine, freshened styling, and additional safety features.

This five-passenger, four-door wagon had a rear liftgate with separate-opening glass. Replacing a 127-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder as the base engine was a 153-hp 2.3-liter four-cylinder.

Four-cylinder Escapes could have a manual transmission or, new for 2005, optional automatic. (Prior four-cylinder models came only with manual shift.) A 200-hp V6 with automatic transmission also was available.

The Hybrid had a four-cylinder gas engine, assisted by an electric motor, for a combined 155 horsepower. Its electric motor helped save fuel by powering the Hybrid at low speeds and assisting the gas engine during acceleration. No plug-in charging was ever required; instead, the system recharged the motor’s batteries when coasting or decelerating. The Hybrid used a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that functioned like an automatic but had a near-infinite number of ratios.

All models came with front-wheel or all-wheel drive; the AWD system did not include low-range gearing. For 2005, Escape’s automatic-transmission shift lever was mounted on the floor console rather than the steering column. Antilock braking, previously optional, now was standard.

Newly optional were head-protecting curtain side airbags for both seating rows. They were designed to deploy in side impacts and rollovers. Escapes also got revised front and rear styling. Ford said it had more sound insulation, too.

Mazda’s Tribute and the new 2005 Mercury Mariner were similar to Escape, but didn’t offer a hybrid version at this time. Rivals included the Honda CR-V, Jeep Liberty, and Subaru Forester.

Yearly Updates

2006 Escape
Little changed on Escapes in the 2006 model year.
2007 Escape
Once again, little was new for the Escape, but a somewhat reworked 2008 model arrived in spring of 2007.
2008 Escape
The 2008 Ford Escape was updated with freshened exterior and interior styling, new features, and lower prices. It was nearly identical in size and had the same powertrains as the 2001-2007 version.
2009 Escape
Escape “muscled up” for 2009. Newly standard on four-cylinder models was a 171-hp 2.5-liter four to replace a 153-hp 2.3-liter unit, and the optional 3.0-liter V6 gained 40 hp for a total of 240.
2010 Escape
The 2010 Ford Escape received some new features, including a rearview camera. Also new was MyKey, which allows owners to program a key that can limit the vehicle’s top speed and audio volume. Another new feature was Ford’s Active Park Assist, which uses ultrasonic sensors to help automatically guide the vehicle into a parallel-parking space.
2011 Escape
The 2011 Ford Escape saw no major changes.
2012 Escape
There were no changes to the 2012 Ford Escape in its final model year in this form.

Engines

transverse front-engine/front- or all-wheel drive

Escapes could have a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 153 horsepower, driving either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. The optional 200-hp V6 worked only with automatic. In the Ford Escape Hybrid, a four-cylinder gas engine, rated at 133 horsepower, was assisted by an electric motor, for a combined total of 155 horsepower. Hybrids mated with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Escapes could have either front-drive or all-wheel drive.

dohc I4/electric
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 2.3/138
Engine HP 133
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 129
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
CVT automatic

 33/29

 31.7
dohc I4
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 2.3/138
Engine HP 153
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 152
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
5-speed manual
4-speed automatic 		22/26
19/22
dohc V6
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 3.0/182
Engine HP 200
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 193
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
4-speed automatic

 18/22

 17.5

Road Test

Four-cylinder versions of Escape, Tribute, and Mariner suffer lazy takeoffs and build speed modestly, but keep up with most traffic. They perform adequately under most conditions, at least without a sizable load. Escape V6 models have ample power for passing and merging, helped by an alert automatic transmission. Automatic-transmission models have accelerated to 60 mph in 8.9 seconds. The Hybrid is adequate for most conditions, and seems underpowered only in passing attempts at highway speeds or when climbing steep grades. Hybrids feel quicker than suggested by the 9.6-second 0-60 mph acceleration time of a 2WD model. The Hybrid’s CVT helps by keeping the gas engine in the strongest part of its power band. The gas engine restarts automatically as you touch the gas pedal. At stops, it shuts off with a slight shudder. Hybrids also drag slightly when coasting to a stop. Towing capacity is 1000 pounds with the Hybrid, 1500 pounds for other four-cylinder models, and 3500 pounds for V6s.

Fuel economy varies by model. A 2WD four-cylinder Escape averaged 20.5 mpg. AWD V6 models have averaged 17.5 to 19.2 mpg in mixed city/highway driving. A V6 2WD model averaged 18.1 mpg. As a comparison, an extended-use AWD V6 Tribute averaged 19.5 mpg, including lots of highway driving. Hybrids have averaged 28.8 mpg with 4WD, 31.7 mpg with 2WD; but only 23.5 mpg for one 2WD version subjected to plenty of city driving and gas-eating acceleration runs. The Hybrid’s fuel tank holds 15 gallons, versus 16.5 on other Escapes. All engines use regular-grade fuel.

With their ride-biased chassis tuning, four-cylinder models have shown good bump absorption, but they suffer sloppy body motions on uneven surfaces. V6 versions feel quite taut, with minimal wallow or float over high-speed dips and swells. Yet, some sharp bumps register abruptly.

Steering/handling also varies. Models with 15-inch tires can feel imprecise in quick directional changes, with marked body lean and noseplow. The same has been true of the relatively heavy hybrids. Other models show fine cornering balance and grip, with only moderate body lean. Steering feel is satisfyingly firm and direct, though the Hybrid’s electric power assist dulls road feel. Good braking power has, according to some testers, been marred by nosedive in simulated panic stops. Hybrid brakes seem to need greater pedal effort when driving on electricity alone.

Ford’s V6 engine is much smoother and quieter than the four-cylinder (including Hybrid), which grows gruff in rapid acceleration. Hybrid powertrains have emitted various whirs and whines, too. Wind rush is prominent at highway speeds in all models, so is tire roar on coarse pavement. Some testers have felt that Tributes and Mariners are slightly quieter overall than Escapes.

Legible gauges sit on a generally well-arranged dashboard. The automatic-transmission shift lever, moved from the steering column to the floor console, no longer blocks access to nearby controls. Interior materials are appropriate for the Escape’s price. Trim ranges from plain to slightly upscale.

Tall riders may want more front headroom in sunroof-equipped models. Otherwise, clearances are generous, and the airy, comfortable cabin belies the compact exterior dimensions. Leg space is adult-size, but surprisingly high seats limit headroom for taller occupants beneath the optional sunroof. Some testers have considered the front seats flat and unsupportive for long-distance drives. Driver views are unimpeded to sides and rear. More back-seat knee and foot room is available than in many midsize SUVs. Bench seats are supportive and well contoured, even in the center position. The rear floor is nearly flat, and the cabin is wide enough for short-trip three-adult comfort. Doorways are wide, but step-in is higher than most rivals’. Rear DVD entertainment has been available for Tribute, but not Escape or Mercury’s Mariner.

Cargo space qualifies as generous. Rear seatbacks fold flat once headrests are removed and seat bottoms tilted forward. Standard separate-opening rear glass is an added convenience.

Ratings

Model Tested: Ford Escape AWD XLT Sport

Ratings values are on a 1-10 scale, with 10 being the best. With the exception of Value, these numbers reflect how the vehicle compares against the universe of vehicles, not just against rivals in its class.

Performance

Acceleration - 5
50%
Fuel Economy - 5
50%
Ride Quality - 4
40%
Steering/Handling - 5
50%
Quietness - 4
40%

Accommodations

Controls/Materials - 5
50%
Room/Comfort Front - 6
60%
Room/Comfort Rear - 5
50%
Cargo Room - 8
80%

Other

Value - 6
60%

Total: 53

Specifications

4-door wagon
Wheelbase (in.) Length (in.) Width (in.) Height (in.) Weight (lbs)
103.2 174.9 70.1 69.7
Cargo Volume (cu/ft) Payload Capacity (cu/ft) Fuel Capacity (gal.) Seating Capacity
66.3 16.5 5
Headroom Legroom
Front Rear Front Rear
40.4 39.2 41.6 35.6
Safety Ratings

Model Tested: 2006 4-door wagon

NHTSA

(5 is the highest rating)

Front Impact Test

Driver Injury - 4
80%
Front Passenger Injury - 4
80%

Side Impact Test

Driver Injury - 5
100%
Rear Passenger Injury - 5
100%

HLDI

(A score of 100 is average. Lower is better)

Collision N/A
Injury N/A
Theft N/A

Trouble Spots

Air conditioner
Description: The air conditioning compressor front seal leaks causing loss of refrigerant. (2006)
Engine noise
Description: A whining noise at speeds between 20-45 is eliminated by replacing the halfshafts with ones having dampers. (2006)
Engine stalling
Description: The engine may stall when coming to a stop after cruising at highway speeds because the lockup torque converter fails to release. (2006-08)
Engine stalling
Description: The engine may stall when coming to a stop after extended driving due to lockup torque converter not releasing. (2005-08)
Steering noise
Description: The steering may squeak, especially at slow speed, requiring steering boot lubrication and power steering fluid replacement with Mercon V transmission fluid. (2001-07)
Suspension noise
Description: A clunk or rattle from the front end may not be mechanical, but a problem in the power steering return line for which there is a revised part. (2006-07)
Suspension noise
Description: A high pitched squeak from the rear suspension is caused by the shock absorber(s) bushing(s) shifting out of position. (2006-07)
Suspension noise
Description: A clunk or rattle from the front may sound like a suspension noise, but is caused by the power steering for which there is an improved hose. (2005-07)
Check-engine light
Description: The fuel tank may fill slowly and the check engine light may illuminate if the tank vent line get clogged from ice (winter) or debris requiring relocation of the line. (2005-08)

Recall History

2005 with liftgate serviced using 2004-equivalent components:
Description: If liftgate is left unlocked, it could open during a crash.
2005 without side curtain airbags or moonroof
Description: Occupants could be injured in a crash, due to non-compliant measurement at left-hand A-pillar trim area.
2006
Description: Windshield wiper may have been produced without grease applied to output shaft gear, which could distort or fracture after continuous operation on high-speed setting.
2006 Hybrid FWD
Description: Intermediate shaft may not have been properly heat-treated and could fracture, causing powertrain to fail to transmit torque to drive wheels and possibly allowing vehicle to roll with transmission in “Park” position. Dealers will inspect the drivetrain intermediate shaft and replace it if necessary.
2010 manufactured from February 27, through March 26, 2010
Description: The park rod guide retention pin may not have been properly installed. A vehicle parked without an engaged park pawl and without an applied parking brake may have unintended movement which may cause a crash. Ford will notify owners and dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge.

Equipment Lists

Equipment lists are only viewable on larger screen sizes.

Pricing

Used-car pricing varies widely depending on local market conditions. Therefore, we recommend visiting websites that list used cars for sale to get a better idea of what a specific model is selling for in your area.

More about Tom Appel
Written by: Tom Appel on July 10, 2014.
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