The Ford Escape has been one of America's favorite compact SUVs for years. It's comfortable to drive, offers great fuel economy, and comes in a wide range of trims and powertrains to suit different lifestyles. 2026 is its final year in production--you'll only be able to get the Escape used from here and out. Find out what you need to know in this used Ford Escape review.
Key Takeaways
- If you're looking for a hybrid Escape, the fourth gen is really your best bet with models from 2021 on.
- In terms of gas-powered models, 2023 is a standout year thanks to a larger infotainment screen.
- 2017 comes with better seals and considerably better safety features.
Fourth Generation (2020-Present)
The fourth-gen Escape is longer and roomier than the model it replaced, but Ford also somehow managed to reduce its weight by about 200 pounds. With 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space, it gives families plenty of room for everyday items.
Buyers shopping this generation have four available powertrains to consider. The Escape's standard gas engine is a 181-hp 1.5-liter three-cylinder available with front- or all-wheel drive. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder t increases output to 250 ponies, but the 1.5-liter is the more efficient choice, thanks to its combined fuel economy of 30 mpg.
Ford also brought hybrid power back to the lineup. The standard hybrid pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a 1.1-kWh battery pack and 41 mpg combined, followed by the plug-in hybrid, which features a larger 14.4-kWh battery pack and returns 41 mpg combined. Its total driving range is 530 miles.
Earlier SE, SE Sport, SEL, and Titanium models in this generation were available only with an 8-inch touchscreen, but in 2023, higher trims gained a larger 13.2-inch infotainment display. Ford also changed the trim names, introducing Base, Active, and Platinum models. The SEL was discontinued, and the ST-Line took its place.
Third-Generation (2013 - 2019)
The third-generation Escape was offered in S, SE, SEL, and Titanium trims, but the SEL was discontinued after 2013 before returning for the 2018 model year. The base engine was a 168-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder; since it was the least powerful engine in the lineup, Ford reserved it for the S trim. Other trims were available with either a 1.6-liter or 2.0-liter engine. The 2.0-liter produced 237 ponies, while the 1.6-liter generated 173 horsepower but offered better fuel economy, returning 26 mpg combined.
Ford refreshed the Escape for the 2017 model year and added several useful improvements. New seals around the windows and hood helped create a quieter ride, for example. This update also brought fast-charging USB ports and a phone app that allowed owners to unlock and start the compact from a smartphone.
Shoppers interested in additional safety technology should look for models with Enhanced Parking Assist, lane-keeping technology, Forward Collision Warning, and Adaptive Cruise Control, all of which were added around this time.
Is a Used Ford Escape a Good Choice?
A used Ford Escape is a great option for shoppers looking for a reliable SUV with ample engine, trim, and tech choices. Buyers interested in a hybrid can focus on fourth-generation models, while those who prefer a gas engine have several options across both generations. Visit our Sebring location today to explore our used inventory and take one for a test drive--it's the Alan Jay Way!