The Ford Escape continues to assert its position as a versatile and capable compact SUV in a highly competitive segment. Now in its fourth generation, the Escape offers consumers a compelling blend of technology, comfort, and performance regardless of which trim level they select. While the Escape lineup offers multiple distinct trim levels—Active, ST-Line, ST-Line Select, Platinum, ST-Line Elite, and Plug-in Hybrid—numerous features and capabilities come standard across the entire range, ensuring that even the base model delivers a premium driving experience.

Exterior Design and Styling

All Ford Escape models share a contemporary exterior design language that balances sporty aesthetics and practical functionality. The sleek, aerodynamic profile helps improve fuel efficiency while giving the vehicle a modern appearance. Standard exterior features across all trim levels include:

• LED headlights that provide improved visibility and consume less energy than traditional halogen bulbs
• Privacy glass on rear windows for improved comfort and security
• Power side mirrors that can be adjusted from inside the cabin
• Rear spoiler for improved aerodynamics
• Easy Fuel capless fuel filler that eliminates the need for screwing and unscrewing a fuel cap

The Escape design represents a significant departure from the more rugged, boxy look of earlier generations, instead embracing curves and a more car-like silhouette. This design approach creates a complementary offering to the more adventure-oriented Ford Bronco Sport, which shares the same platform but targets a different consumer segment.

Powertrain Options

While the Escape offers four distinct powertrain configurations across the lineup, each engine and transmission combination balances power and efficiency. The base powertrain found in the entry-level models is a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder EcoBoost engine that generates 180 horsepower and 199 Nm of torque. This engine comes paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations.

Higher trim levels offer options including:

• A more powerful 2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine producing 250 horsepower and 280 Nm of torque
• A 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain delivering a combined 192 horsepower
• A plug-in hybrid variant with 210 combined horsepower and an all-electric range

All powertrain options feature Auto Start-Stop technology, which reduces fuel consumption and emissions by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle comes to a stop and seamlessly restarting it when the brake pedal is released. This technology contributes to the impressive fuel economy ratings across the lineup.

Interior Comfort and Versatility

The Escape cabin is designed with comfort and functionality in mind, offering a surprisingly spacious interior given its compact exterior dimensions. Standard interior features across all trim levels include:

• Dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control, allowing the driver and front passenger to set their preferred temperatures independently
• 60/40 split-folding rear seats that can be adjusted to prioritize passenger comfort or cargo space as needed
• Sliding second-row seats that can move forward or backward, offering either increased legroom for rear passengers or additional cargo space
• Cloth front bucket seats with manual adjustment
• Tilt and telescoping steering column for optimal driver positioning

One of the most practical features is its versatile cargo capacity. With the rear seats in their standard position, the Escape offers 974 litres of cargo space. Folding the rear seats down increases this capacity to 1,722 litres, providing ample room for larger items. This flexibility makes the Escape suitable for various activities, from daily commuting to weekend adventures.

Technology and Connectivity

Ford has made significant technological investments for the Ford Escape, ensuring that all trim levels offer advanced connectivity and entertainment options. Standard technology features across the lineup include:

• SYNC 4 infotainment system with an 8-inch LCD capacitive touchscreen, offering intuitive controls and responsive performance
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility for seamless smartphone integration
• FordPass Connect with 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability, allowing up to 10 devices to connect simultaneously
• SiriusXM satellite radio with 360L for an enhanced listening experience
• USB ports for device charging and connectivity
• Bluetooth wireless technology for hands-free calling and audio streaming

The SYNC 4 system represents a significant upgrade over previous generations, with improved voice recognition, over-the-air update capability, and a more intuitive user interface. This ensures that the technology remains current throughout the vehicle’s lifecycle.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Safety is a priority across the Ford Escape lineup, with the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of driver assistance technologies standard on all models. This comprehensive package includes:

• Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, which can detect potential frontal collisions with vehicles or pedestrians and apply the brakes if necessary
• BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert, which monitors blind spots and alerts the driver to vehicles approaching from the side when backing up
• Lane-Keeping System, which helps prevent unintentional lane departures
• Auto High-Beam Headlamps that automatically switch between high and low beams when detecting oncoming traffic
• Rear View Camera to assist with parking and reversing
• Rear parking sensors for additional assistance when backing up

These advanced safety features, once reserved for luxury vehicles, are now standard across the Escape range, demonstrating the Ford commitment to occupant protection and accident avoidance.

Performance and Handling

Regardless of trim level, all Ford Escape models offer a driving experience that balances comfort with engaging dynamics. Standard performance features include:

• Selectable drive modes that allow drivers to customize the vehicle’s behaviour based on conditions and preferences
• Electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) that provides precise control while improving fuel efficiency
• Four-wheel disc brakes for reliable stopping power
• MacPherson strut front suspension and independent rear suspension for a smooth, controlled ride
• Torque Vectoring Control that helps improve cornering stability

All-wheel drive models also feature a disconnecting rear driveline that can automatically switch between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive as conditions demand, improving fuel efficiency during normal driving while providing enhanced traction when needed.

Convenience Features

The Ford Escape includes numerous convenience features as standard equipment across all trim levels, enhancing the ownership experience. These include:

• Remote keyless entry allows drivers to unlock the vehicle without removing the key fob from their pocket or bag
• Push-button start for convenient engine ignition
• Power windows with one-touch up/down functionality for the driver’s window
• Rotary gear shift dial that frees up space in the center console
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror that reduces glare from trailing vehicles’ headlights
• Compass display for directional information
• Outside temperature display

Higher trim levels build on these features with additional amenities such as a hands-free, foot-activated power liftgate, remote start system, and more advanced convenience options.

Warranty and Ownership Experience

All Ford Escape models come with comprehensive warranty coverage, providing peace of mind for new owners. This includes:

• 3-year/60,000 km Basic Limited Warranty
• 5-year/100,000 km Powertrain Limited Warranty
• 5-year/unlimited-km Corrosion Warranty
• 8-year/160,000 km warranty on hybrid and electric components for applicable models
• 5-year/100,000 km Roadside Assistance

Additionally, the FordPass app allows Escape owners to remotely access various vehicle functions, including lock/unlock, remote start (if equipped), vehicle location, and vehicle status updates. This connectivity enhances the ownership experience by providing convenient access to vehicle information and functions from anywhere.

2025 Ford Escape: A Modern Compact SUV

The Ford Escape offers a compelling package of standard features across its entire lineup, ensuring that even buyers of the base trim receive a well-equipped, technologically advanced vehicle. From the comprehensive safety features of Ford Co-Pilot360 to the connectivity options provided by SYNC 4, the Escape delivers on modern consumers’ expectations for a compact SUV.

With its versatile interior, choice of efficient powertrains, and thoughtful standard features, the Ford Escape is a strong competitor in the compact SUV segment. Whether used for daily commuting, family transportation, or weekend adventures, the Escape provides a balanced combination of utility, comfort, and technology that appeals to many buyers.

As the automotive landscape continues to evolve with increasing emphasis on technology, efficiency, and versatility, the Ford Escape demonstrates the Ford commitment to meeting these demands while maintaining the practical appeal that has made the Escape a consistent success since its introduction.