The popular Ford Escape has been fully redesigned for the 2020 model year. It has been massaged and morphed into a curvier model that looks more like a raised hatchback and less than a utilitarian box, as SUVs become alternatives to traditional sedans. The Escape also got new powertrains, more elaborate interior technology and standard advanced safety features. We found the new Escape agile and solid feeling but it also suffers from a few flaws that should give buyers pause. We think the hybrid version is the most compelling.
The standard engine is a 1.5-liter, turbocharged three-cylinder that’s quick to deliver power when needed, whether in town or on a highway. However, it suffers from a pronounced vibration at low revs and during coasting. The hybrid version does away with that nuisance and gets an impressive 34 mpg overall. And the uplevel 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder does without the vibration as well.
The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts quickly with the 1.5-liter engine, although some low-speed upshifts can be felt as a slight bump. On the flip side, fuel economy is good at 26 mpg overall.
Handling is quite nimble, endowing the Escape with a frisky nature that gives drivers confidence and makes the car fun-to-drive.
The ride skews firm, making the Escape less plush riding than most competitors, however. The Escape feels solid and tight, but the road and wind noise that creeps in mars that impression.
Controls are very simple and easy to use. The Sync 3 infotainment system has large text and buttons, which makes it easy to interact with. Both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability are standard.
At first blush, the cabin looks inviting. But after driving the SUV for a while, our testers found that the door panels and silver trim were flimsy, the plastic steering wheel felt cheap, and the front seats are flat and short on back and leg support. We appreciated that the rear seat provides ample room, even for adults. The seat can be moved fore or aft in order to expand leg room or cargo room. And it folds flat to expand the cargo area.
We commend Ford for equipping all Escapes with standard forward collision warning (FCW), automatic emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection, blind spot warning (BSW), rear cross traffic warning (RCTW), and lane keeping assistance (LKA). Buyers should keep in mind that additional options are required to get adaptive cruise control, which is a helpful convenience feature.