The Escape is Ford's first SUV built on a car platform. The result is an SUV with good maneuverability, easy car-like driving and quite respectable gas mileage (18 - 23 mpg city and 23 - 28 mpg highway depending on the engine).
It says a lot that since first introduced in 2001, the Ford Escape has been one of top selling small SUVs in the country. And this is no small feat given the intense competition in this segment of the SUV market, many of which were already well established. The Escape simply offers qualities with wide appeal and is definitely worth consideration as a used car purchase.
This vehicle offers a nice combination of attractive styling and available four-wheel-drive versatility with the practicality and pleasant driving experience of a midsize sedan. For people needing space and/or at least some light off-roading or cargo hauling, yet who also value a vehicle that's fun-to-drive, versatile and comfortable, the Escape may very well be the right choice. It's affordable pricing also broadens its appeal.
It should be noted, however, that as a compact four-door SUV with a fully independent suspension, unibody construction and a light-duty all-wheel-drive system, the Escape is best used for on-road driving as opposed to off-road.
The Escape's basic exterior and interior design remained the same through the 2007 model year and was available in XLS, XLT, XLT Sport and Limited trims. That said, a 2002 or newer model may be in order as the 2001 Escape was subject to a number of recalls, although likely resolved at this point.
The leather-appointed Limited model was introduced in 2003. From 2001 to 2004, the base engine for the Ford Escape was a 2.0 liter four-cylinder that produced 130 horsepower. It was later replaced with a more robust 2.3 liter inline four-cylinder that delivered 153 horsepower and was offered until 2008. From 2001 to 2007, the optional V6 engine produced 200 horsepower and was mated with a four-speed automatic transmission.
After 2008, there are three available models: XLS, XLT and Limited. Each model is equipped with progressively more standard features. It's likely that a majority of drivers would be satisfied with the XLT.
Currently, all models can be found with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. All but the Limited model are outfitted with a standard 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine that produces 171 horsepower. Transmission choices now include either a five-speed manual (on the XLS only) or a six-speed automatic.
The standard engine for the Limited, and optional on the XLT, is a 240 horsepower 3.0-liter V6. The only transmission available on the V6 is the six-speed automatic.
There's also the Ford Escape Hybrid, although harder to find, equipped with a gasoline/electric powertrain that ranks among the top fuel efficient SUVs available.
Overall, and no surprise here, we think Escapes make an excellent choice as a used SUV purchase.
How To Buy A Used Ford Escape
At The Best Possible Price:
