Ford Escape
The Ford Escape is a compact crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by the Ford Motor Company since the 2001 model year, initially developed in collaboration with Mazda as part of a joint venture that produced the similar Mazda Tribute.[1][2] It pioneered the mainstream unibody crossover segment in North America by combining car-like ride quality, fuel efficiency, and handling with the elevated seating and cargo versatility of a traditional SUV.[3] Over its 25-year production run, the Escape has become one of Ford's best-selling models, with cumulative U.S. sales exceeding 4.5 million units by 2025, reflecting its enduring appeal for urban commuters and families seeking an affordable, practical vehicle.[4][5] The Escape has evolved through four generations, each introducing refinements in design, technology, and powertrain options to meet changing consumer demands and regulatory standards. The first generation (2001–2007) offered front- or all-wheel drive with inline-four and V6 engines, emphasizing affordability and off-road capability in a compact package starting at around 3,500 pounds.[3][6] The second generation (2008–2012) shifted to a more aerodynamic unibody platform, improving fuel economy to up to 28 mpg highway and adding features like optional navigation, while sales peaked at over 268,000 units in 2012.[3][5] The third generation (2013–2019) adopted a sleeker profile with turbocharged EcoBoost engines, advanced driver aids such as blind-spot monitoring, and MyFord Touch infotainment, boosting overall efficiency and interior space for five passengers.[6][7] The current fourth generation, launched in 2020, features a longer wheelbase for enhanced rear legroom (up to 40.7 inches), standard 8-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen compatibility with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a versatile second-row seat that slides 10 inches for customizable cargo space up to 65.4 cubic feet.[1][8] Powertrain choices across recent models include a base 1.5-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder (181 hp), a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder (250 hp), a hybrid variant (192 hp combined, achieving 42 mpg city), and a plug-in hybrid (210 hp, 37-mile electric range).[8][9] Trim levels range from the entry-level Active to premium ST-Line Elite, with pricing starting at approximately $30,000 for 2025 models and standard Ford Co-Pilot360 safety suite including automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist.[8] In August 2025, Ford announced the discontinuation of the Escape after the 2026 model year, citing a strategic shift toward affordable electric vehicles produced at retooling plants, though 2026 inventory will remain available.[10][11]First generation (2001–2007)
Initial release (2001–2007)
The Ford Escape was introduced in 2000 as a 2001 model year vehicle, debuting at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit before sales began in August of that year.[12] Developed as Ford's entry into the compact SUV market, it targeted urban drivers seeking a versatile, car-based alternative to larger trucks, directly competing with established models like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V.[13] The Escape quickly gained traction, selling 164,184 units in its first full year in the U.S. and becoming the best-selling SUV in the segment amid growing demand for smaller crossovers.[14] Built on the CD2 platform—a unibody architecture jointly engineered with Mazda—the first-generation Escape shared its underpinnings with the badge-engineered Mazda Tribute, while the Mercury Mariner would later join as a luxury-oriented twin starting in 2005.[15] Offered exclusively as a five-door SUV with a boxy, upright design emphasizing practicality, it provided seating for five passengers and cargo space up to 64.8 cubic feet with rear seats folded.[16] Drivetrain options included front-wheel drive for everyday efficiency or all-wheel drive for enhanced traction, catering to both city commuting and light off-road use.[15] Powertrain choices focused on accessibility and performance balance, with a base 2.0-liter Zetec inline-four engine producing 130 horsepower paired to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.[15] An optional 3.0-liter Duratec V6 delivered 200 horsepower exclusively with a five-speed automatic, enabling a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.[16] Initial production occurred at Ford's Kansas City Assembly Plant in Claycomo, Missouri, with early assembly for Asian markets beginning via CKD kits in Taiwan around 2002 to meet regional demand.[17] In Asia-Pacific markets, regional adaptations like the ZC variant were introduced in late 2006, featuring local tuning for ride comfort and engine options including the 2.3-liter four-cylinder or 3.0-liter V6, paired with a four-speed automatic and built at Ford Lio Ho's facility in Taiwan.[18]Powertrains
The first-generation Ford Escape featured conventional gasoline powertrains paired with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), emphasizing affordability and versatility. The base engine was a 2.0-liter Zetec inline-four producing 130 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 135 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm, available with a five-speed manual transmission (FWD only) or four-speed automatic. It achieved EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20 mpg city and 25 mpg highway in FWD configuration, dropping to 18/22 mpg with AWD. The optional 3.0-liter Duratec V6 delivered 200 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 200 lb-ft of torque at 4,250 rpm, paired exclusively with the four-speed automatic and available in FWD or AWD. Fuel economy for the V6 was 17 mpg city and 21 mpg highway in FWD, or 16/20 mpg in AWD. The V6 supported a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds when equipped with the appropriate package.[19][20][21]| Powertrain | Engine | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | Transmission | Fuel Economy (City/Hwy, mpg; FWD) | Towing Capacity (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base (FWD) | 2.0L I-4 | 130 @ 5,500 rpm | 135 @ 4,500 rpm | 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic | 20/25 | 1,000 |
| Base (AWD) | 2.0L I-4 | 130 @ 5,500 rpm | 135 @ 4,500 rpm | 4-speed automatic | 18/22 | 1,000 |
| V6 (FWD/AWD) | 3.0L V6 | 200 @ 5,500 rpm | 200 @ 4,250 rpm | 4-speed automatic | 17/21 (FWD); 16/20 (AWD) | 3,500 (w/ tow pkg) |
Hybrid variant
The Ford Escape Hybrid was introduced for the 2005 model year, marking Ford's entry into hybrid SUV production and the first such vehicle from an American automaker.[22] Unveiled at the 2004 New York International Auto Show, it leveraged a licensing agreement with Toyota for key hybrid patents and components, including the continuously variable transmission (CVT) supplied by Aisin, a Toyota subsidiary.[23] This partnership enabled Ford to accelerate development, drawing on Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive principles while adapting them to the Escape's compact SUV platform.[24] The drivetrain featured a 2.3-liter inline-four Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine producing 133 horsepower, paired with a 94-horsepower permanent magnet electric motor, for a combined system output of 155 horsepower and 124 pound-feet of torque.[25] Power was delivered through an electronically controlled CVT to all four wheels, as the hybrid was exclusively available in all-wheel-drive configuration.[26] A 330-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack, located under the rear cargo floor, provided energy storage for the electric motor and supported the system's parallel hybrid architecture, where the gasoline engine and electric motor could operate independently or together.[27] As a parallel full hybrid, the Escape utilized regenerative braking to recapture kinetic energy during deceleration, converting it via the electric motor acting as a generator to recharge the battery and reduce reliance on friction brakes.[28] This system enabled limited electric-only propulsion in EV mode, capable of speeds up to 25 mph for short distances, such as low-speed maneuvering or stop-and-go traffic, minimizing fuel use and emissions in urban settings.[29] Fuel efficiency was a key selling point, with the Environmental Protection Agency rating the all-wheel-drive model at 33 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, a significant improvement over the conventional Escape's V6 powertrain.[30] Real-world testing often exceeded these figures, with independent evaluations reporting averages above 35 mpg in mixed driving conditions, thanks to the hybrid's optimized energy management.[31] Production of the Escape Hybrid took place exclusively at Ford's Louisville Assembly Plant in Kentucky, with availability limited to the North American market.[32] By the end of 2007, cumulative sales reached approximately 30,000 units, reflecting steady but niche demand amid growing interest in hybrid technology.[33] Distinguishing features included unique "Hybrid" badging on the exterior and a specialized instrument cluster with a battery state-of-charge gauge and energy flow display to inform drivers of hybrid operation.[34] The model was offered in a single trim level with premium options like leather seating and a sunroof, positioning it as a upscale variant within the Escape lineup.[25]Related models
The first-generation Ford Escape shared its CD2 platform with two closely related models: the Mazda Tribute and the Mercury Mariner, both resulting from a joint development effort between Ford and Mazda that emphasized compact crossover SUV versatility.[35] The CD2 platform, derived from Mazda's GF architecture used in the Mazda 626 sedan, featured a unibody construction with fully independent suspension, enabling front- or all-wheel-drive configurations across all three vehicles.[23] The Mazda Tribute, introduced alongside the Escape for the 2001 model year, served as Mazda's entry into the compact SUV segment and was positioned as a sportier alternative with tuned suspension for enhanced handling.[36] It offered the same core powertrain options as the Escape, including a base 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing 130 horsepower and a 3.0-liter V6 for higher trims, paired with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.[37] Initial production of the Tribute occurred at Mazda's Hofu Plant in Japan, reflecting the collaborative engineering where Mazda led much of the chassis development.[35] In select markets outside North America, the Tribute was marketed with an emphasis on off-road capability, including available four-wheel-drive systems tuned for rugged terrain, though it shared the Escape's urban-oriented design ethos.[38] The Tribute remained in production through 2008, phasing out earlier than the Escape in North America as Mazda shifted focus to its own SUV lineup. The Mercury Mariner, launched for the 2005 model year as part of the Escape's mid-cycle refresh, functioned as a luxury-oriented badge-engineered twin targeted at premium North American buyers seeking upscale features without venturing into larger vehicles.[39] It utilized identical powertrains to the Escape, including the 2.3-liter four-cylinder and 3.0-liter V6 engines, along with the same CD2 platform underpinnings for consistent ride quality and drivability.[40] Distinctive styling set the Mariner apart, featuring a signature satin-aluminum waterfall grille, unique front and rear fascias, and monochrome body cladding for a more refined appearance, which contributed to its higher pricing—typically about $500 more than comparable Escape trims.[41] Positioned above the Escape in Ford's lineup, the Mariner emphasized interior luxury with options like two-tone leather upholstery and wood accents, appealing to buyers desiring Mercury's traditional upscale positioning.[42] Production continued until 2010, with the model discontinued in 2011 alongside Mercury's broader phase-out by Ford.[39]Second generation (2008–2012)
Design and platform
The second-generation Ford Escape was built on the Ford CD2 platform, a unibody architecture shared with the Mercury Mariner and Mazda Tribute, supporting front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. This platform provided improved rigidity and handling compared to the body-on-frame first generation, while maintaining SUV versatility. The design featured a bolder, more rugged exterior with a stepped hood and angular lines that echoed the styling of larger Ford SUVs like the Explorer and Expedition.[43] Exterior dimensions measured 174.7 inches in length, 71.1 inches in width, 67.7 inches in height, and a 103.1-inch wheelbase, offering a compact footprint with adequate interior space for five passengers. The interior received a restyling with upgraded materials, optional leather seating, and improved ergonomics, including a standard AM/FM/CD audio system and available navigation on higher trims. Cargo capacity was 29.2 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 66.3 cubic feet with seats folded.[44][45] Production took place primarily at Ford's Kansas City Assembly Plant (Claycomo, Missouri), with additional assembly in Venezuela and Thailand for regional markets. Curb weights ranged from approximately 3,200 to 3,600 pounds, depending on powertrain and drivetrain.Powertrains
The second-generation Ford Escape offered inline-four and V6 gasoline engines, paired with manual or automatic transmissions, along with a hybrid option from 2009. All were available with FWD standard and optional AWD. Early models (2008-2011) featured a 2.3-liter Duratec I4 producing 153 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 152 lb-ft of torque at 4,250 rpm, mated to a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic, achieving EPA estimates of 20 mpg city/28 mpg highway (FWD). The optional 3.0-liter Duratec V6 delivered 200 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 193 lb-ft at 4,850 rpm in 2008, updated to 240 hp and 223 lb-ft from 2009, paired with a 6-speed automatic and rated at 18/25 mpg (FWD). Towing capacity reached 3,500 pounds with the V6. For 2012, the base engine upgraded to a 2.5-liter Duratec I4 with 171 hp at 6,000 rpm and 171 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm, using a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic, for 21/28 mpg (FWD).[46][47] The hybrid powertrain, introduced in 2009, combined a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle I4 (141 hp) with an electric motor for 177 total horsepower and used an eCVT. It achieved 34 mpg city/31 mpg highway (FWD), with AWD available, and regenerative braking for efficiency. Towing was limited to 1,000 pounds.[48]| Powertrain | Engine | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | Transmission | Fuel Economy (City/Hwy, mpg FWD) | Towing Capacity (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.3L I4 (2008-11) | 2.3L I4 | 153 @ 5,800 rpm | 152 @ 4,250 rpm | 5MT/4AT | 20/28 | 1,500 |
| 3.0L V6 (2008) | 3.0L V6 | 200 @ 6,000 rpm | 193 @ 4,850 rpm | 6AT | 18/26 | 3,500 |
| 3.0L V6 (2009-12) | 3.0L V6 | 240 @ 6,550 rpm | 223 @ 4,250 rpm | 6AT | 18/25 | 3,500 |
| 2.5L I4 (2012) | 2.5L I4 | 171 @ 6,000 rpm | 171 @ 4,500 rpm | 5MT/6AT | 21/28 | 1,500 |
| Hybrid (2009-12) | 2.5L I4 + electric | 177 (system) | 155 (system) | eCVT | 34/31 | 1,000 |
Trim levels and markets
The second-generation Escape was offered in three main trim levels in the United States: XLS (base), XLT (mid-level), and Limited (premium). The XLS included cloth seats, air conditioning, and a CD player, starting around $20,000 in 2008. The XLT added alloy wheels, fog lamps, and optional leather, while the Limited featured chrome accents, heated seats, and a sunroof. Hybrid variants were available from XLT upward. All trims offered FWD or AWD, with safety features like front airbags and ABS standard; stability control became standard in 2010.[46][49] In North America, the Escape was marketed alongside the rebadged Mercury Mariner and Mazda Tribute. It was also sold in Mexico, Venezuela, and select Asia-Pacific markets, with right-hand-drive versions for Australia and the UK (as Kuga in Europe). Pricing and features varied by region, with emphasis on fuel efficiency in urban markets.Hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants
The second-generation Ford Escape Hybrid was launched in 2009, pairing a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle inline-four gasoline engine with an electric motor to deliver a combined output of 177 horsepower. This powertrain utilized an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT) and was offered with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), providing seamless transitions between electric and gasoline power for improved efficiency. The EPA rated the FWD hybrid at 34 mpg city and 31 mpg highway.[48] Key technologies included regenerative braking to recharge the nickel-metal hydride battery, enabling electric-only operation up to 44 mph for short distances. The hybrid maintained the Escape's utility, with AWD available and towing up to 1,000 pounds. Compared to the first-generation hybrid, it featured a larger engine for better performance and refined delivery. No plug-in hybrid variant was produced for the second generation; earlier demonstration PHEVs were based on the first generation. The hybrid was available through 2012, contributing to sales of over 50,000 units annually.[50]Third generation (2013–2019)
Overview and powertrains
The third-generation Ford Escape, launched as the 2013 model year vehicle, marked a significant redesign from its second-generation predecessor, adopting a sleeker, more aerodynamic crossover profile with enhanced interior packaging and technology integration. Unveiled at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show, it shared underpinnings with the third-generation Ford Focus on the Ford C2 platform (global C platform), enabling a compact footprint while providing improved ride quality and handling through independent suspension at all four wheels. This generation emphasized efficiency and versatility, with a unibody construction that optimized space utilization in a one-box SUV design, resulting in greater cargo capacity—up to 68.1 cubic feet with seats folded—compared to the prior model.[51][52][53] The powertrain lineup focused on a mix of naturally aspirated and turbocharged gasoline engines, all paired with a standard six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard across variants, with all-wheel drive available for enhanced traction; select AWD models incorporated torque-vectoring control, which selectively applies braking to individual wheels during cornering to improve stability and responsiveness. Maximum towing capacity reached 3,500 pounds when equipped with the larger turbo engine and proper trailer package.[54][55][56]| Engine | Type | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | Fuel Economy (city/highway mpg, FWD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5L I4 | Naturally aspirated | 168 @ 6,000 rpm | 170 @ 4,500 rpm | 22/31[57] |
| 1.6L EcoBoost I4 | Turbocharged | 178 @ 5,700 rpm | 184 @ 2,500 rpm | 23/33[58] |
| 2.0L EcoBoost I4 | Turbocharged | 240 @ 5,500 rpm | 270 @ 3,000 rpm | 22/30 (AWD)[52] |
Trim levels
The third-generation Ford Escape offered four primary trim levels: the base S, mid-level SE, upper SEL, and premium Titanium, with sport-oriented variants available for the SE and Titanium equipped with the more powerful 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine.[61][62] The entry-level S trim featured 17-inch steel wheels, cloth bucket seats, and the basic Ford SYNC voice-activated connectivity system with a six-speaker audio setup, emphasizing essential functionality for everyday driving.[63][64] The SE trim built on the S with 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, privacy glass, and standard SYNC with a four-inch color display, while the SE Sport variant paired these with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine for enhanced performance.[63][65] Moving to the SEL, this upper-mid trim included leather-trimmed seats, a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and 18-inch alloy wheels, offering greater comfort without the top-tier luxury.[64][58] The Titanium premium trim elevated refinement with 19-inch alloy wheels, perforated leather seating surfaces, a 10-speaker Sony premium audio system with HD Radio, and advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise control available via the optional Technology package.[63][66][67] Buyers could further customize via option packages, such as the Appearance Package for unique exterior styling elements and Equipment Groups (e.g., 201A for SE, 302A for SEL, 401A for Titanium) that bundled additions like navigation through SYNC with MyFord Touch, rear parking aids, and blind-spot monitoring.[64][68] In 2013, the S base trim started at approximately $23,000, while the Titanium reached around $29,000 for front-wheel-drive models, reflecting the progression in features and capability across the lineup.[61][69]2017 facelift
The 2017 facelift for the third-generation Ford Escape was unveiled at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show and went on sale in late spring 2016 as a 2017 model year update. This mid-cycle refresh introduced subtle exterior styling revisions to align more closely with Ford's contemporary design language, including a new two-bar hexagonal grille, larger and narrower headlights for a wider stance, and revised front and rear bumpers that contributed to a more imposing appearance. At the rear, the changes featured a blockier design with taller LED taillights and a reshaped tailgate, enhancing visibility and modern aesthetics.[70][71] Interior enhancements focused on improved ergonomics and technology integration, with an updated dashboard layout that relocated the gear shifter to the steering column and added an electronic parking brake, freeing up additional console storage space—up to 25 percent more in the front row compared to the pre-facelift model. A redesigned steering wheel improved gauge cluster visibility, while higher trims received an 8-inch SYNC 3 touchscreen infotainment system as standard, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for enhanced connectivity. These changes aimed to provide a more spacious and user-friendly cabin without altering the overall dimensions.[70][71][72] Powertrain adjustments streamlined the lineup by discontinuing the 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine, replacing it with a new 1.5-liter EcoBoost turbocharged unit producing 179 horsepower and offering improved fuel efficiency; the base 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine carried over unchanged, while the optional 2.0-liter EcoBoost was updated with a twin-scroll turbocharger for 245 horsepower and became standard on higher non-hybrid trims like the Titanium. All engines paired with a six-speed automatic transmission featuring auto start-stop technology. Safety features saw the rearview camera become standard across the lineup, with optional additions like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert available on select trims to bolster driver assistance capabilities.[70][71] Production of the facelifted Escape continued at Ford's Louisville Assembly Plant in Kentucky, where manufacturing ramped up in March 2016; to support growing demand, Ford reallocated the facility's full capacity to the Escape by shifting Lincoln MKC production to another site, enabling minor output increases without major infrastructure changes.[73][74]Safety and recalls
The third-generation Ford Escape included standard safety features such as seven airbags, stability control, and traction control, with optional advanced aids like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control available on higher trims via packages. Post-2017 facelift, a rearview camera became standard, and SYNC 3 integration improved connectivity for safety alerts.[64][70] In crash testing, the 2013-2019 Ford Escape received an overall 4-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), with 4 stars in frontal crash, 5 stars in side crash, and 4 stars in rollover resistance (16-17% risk). The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the 2013-2016 models a Top Safety Pick+ rating, with Good scores in moderate overlap frontal, side, roof strength, and head restraints, plus Superior rating for optional front crash prevention. However, the updated 2017-2019 models earned a Marginal rating in the passenger-side small overlap frontal test and Poor in the updated side test due to inadequate protection for the rear passenger's head and torso.[75][76] Several recalls affected the third-generation Escape. A major recall (19S54, September 2019) involved approximately 591,000 vehicles (2013-2018 models with 1.6L or 2.0L EcoBoost engines) due to manufacturing defects allowing coolant intrusion into the engine block, potentially causing cracking, overheating, and fire risk; Ford replaced engines free of charge. Another significant recall (22S36, June 2022) covered about 2.9 million vehicles (2013-2019 Escape and related models) for a transmission software issue that could prevent shifting out of park, increasing rollover risk; dealers updated software at no cost. Additional recalls included faulty door latches (15S39, affecting 1.6 million 2011-2016 models, risking doors opening while driving) and Takata airbag inflators (multiple campaigns, 2013-2017 models).[77][78][79]Fourth generation (2020–2026)
Design and platform
The fourth-generation Ford Escape utilizes Ford's C2 platform, a flexible and scalable architecture that supports both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive layouts for compact crossover SUVs and related vehicles. This platform underpins the Escape along with the Ford Bronco Sport, Ford Maverick, and Lincoln Corsair, enabling shared components for improved efficiency in development and manufacturing.[80] The design adopts an emotional language characterized by bold, sculptural forms that evoke athleticism and versatility, departing from the more conservative styling of the third-generation model, which measured 178.1 inches in length and had a 105.1-inch wheelbase.[81] Exterior dimensions include an overall length of 180.5 inches and a wheelbase of 106.7 inches, contributing to enhanced interior space with 40.7 inches of rear legroom for greater passenger comfort. The styling features a prominent hexagonal grille with a black piano finish for a sportier appearance, paired with slim LED headlights that provide a sharp, modern lighting signature. Hybrid models incorporate aerodynamic enhancements, such as active grille shutters and 19-inch black alloy wheels, to improve fuel efficiency without compromising aesthetics.[82][83][84] Inside, the cabin emphasizes practicality and technology, with options for a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that allows customizable displays for driver information. Standard infotainment comes via an 8-inch touchscreen on higher trims, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless connectivity. Cargo capacity reaches up to 37.5 cubic feet behind the second row with seats up, expanding to 65.4 cubic feet when folded, accommodating diverse needs from daily errands to weekend adventures.[85][8] Production occurs at the Ford Louisville Assembly Plant in Kentucky, with vehicles exported globally to markets including Mexico and China, where the model is offered alongside local variants. Curb weights range from approximately 3,270 to 3,900 pounds, varying by powertrain and drivetrain configuration to balance performance and efficiency.[86][87][88]Powertrains
The fourth-generation Ford Escape offers a range of gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains designed for efficiency and performance in a compact SUV package. The gasoline options include turbocharged inline-three and inline-four engines paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the electrified variants utilize a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle inline-four engine combined with electric motors and an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT). All powertrains are available with front-wheel drive (FWD) as standard, with intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD) optional across the lineup.[89] The base powertrain is a 1.5-liter EcoBoost inline-three engine producing 180 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 199 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm. It achieves EPA-estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined in FWD configuration, dropping to 26/32/28 mpg with AWD. This engine supports a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 pounds. For more performance-oriented buyers, the available 2.0-liter EcoBoost inline-four delivers 250 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 280 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm, exclusively paired with AWD. It returns 23 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined, with a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds when equipped with the Class II Trailer Tow Package; acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 5.8 seconds.[89][90] The hybrid powertrain combines a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle inline-four engine with two electric motors for a total system output of 192 horsepower, emphasizing fuel efficiency with an EPA-estimated 42 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 39 mpg combined regardless of FWD or AWD. It includes regenerative braking and operates without external charging. The plug-in hybrid variant builds on this setup, offering 210 total system horsepower, an EPA-estimated 37-mile all-electric range, 101 MPGe combined, and 40 mpg in hybrid mode after battery depletion; it supports Level 2 charging in about 3.5 hours and is available only with FWD. Both electrified options are limited to a 1,500-pound towing capacity.[89][91]| Powertrain | Engine | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | Transmission | Fuel Economy (City/Hwy/Comb, mpg) | Towing Capacity (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5L EcoBoost (FWD) | 1.5L I-3 Turbo | 180 @ 6,000 rpm | 199 @ 3,000 rpm | 8-speed automatic | 27/34/30 | 2,000 |
| 1.5L EcoBoost (AWD) | 1.5L I-3 Turbo | 180 @ 6,000 rpm | 199 @ 3,000 rpm | 8-speed automatic | 26/32/28 | 2,000 |
| 2.0L EcoBoost (AWD) | 2.0L I-4 Turbo | 250 @ 5,500 rpm | 280 @ 3,000 rpm | 8-speed automatic | 23/31/26 | 3,500 (w/ tow pkg) |
| Hybrid (FWD/AWD) | 2.5L I-4 + electric | 192 (system) | N/A | eCVT | 42/36/39 | 1,500 |
| Plug-in Hybrid (FWD) | 2.5L I-4 + electric | 210 (system) | N/A | eCVT | 40 (gas), 37 mi EV range | 1,500 |