The new Ford escapes continue to captivate consumers with their renewed design and great performance. There are three models to choose from, ranging from the base version all the way to a model that includes most of the standard features a mid-size SUV owner could hope for.
The 2017 version of the Ford Escape has three models to choose from, each providing seating for up to five passengers. The base model S starts with a MSRP of $23,750, while the mid-size SE comes in at an MSRP of $25,250. Rounding out the top of the class is the Titanium model, with an MSRP of $29,250.
Exterior features have been noticeably upgraded on the 2017 compared to the models from previous years. For the Escape, this includes such standard features as a foot-activated lift gate, silver painted roof rack side rails, dual chrome exhaust tips, and fog lamps. Popular options features include a gloss black lower grille, black belt line molding, roof rack cross bars, and gloss black pained skid plates in the front and rear.
Performance
The Ford Escape has a 2.5L engine and comes standard with a front wheel drive system, while maintaining an option for intelligent 4WD. There are dual hidden outlet exhausts with a horsepower of 179. Standard is a six-speed automatic select shift transmission and an aluminum engine and cylinder block.
The Ford Escape exhibits good fuel efficiency for a mid-size SUV. With a 179-horsepower intercooler turbo engine powered by unleaded gasoline, the average miles per gallon in the city is 23, increasing to 30 miles per gallon in the highway. This amounts to a combined 26 miles per gallon on a gas tank that hold 15.7 gallons. The cruising range of the Escape is rated at 471 miles.
Behind the Wheel
Each Ford Escape comes standard with front bucket seats trimmed in leather and offered in various color schemes. There is a 10-way power seat for both the driver and front passenger, along with a driver seat memory control. The seats in the rear are a 60/40 split, making them easy to fold in case you need even more storage. For those that are interested, there is also an optional sport seat available, which also comes trimmed with leather.
The Escape also comes loaded with a slew of entertainment features, some of which come standard with the vehicle. The sound system consists of 10 high-quality speakers, produced by Sony, spread throughout the cab. Combine that with a pre-installed Sirius XM satellite radio, and you’re ready to tackle any road trip. There is also a touchscreen navigation system that is voice activated and has multi-touch capability. Built into that system is Sirius XM Traffic and Travel Link as subscription based services. Among the many features incorporated into the Ford Escape you’ll also find a universal garage door opener, remote start system, and ambient lighting throughout.
Safety Features
Important safety features have also been added to the 2017 Ford Escape. This begins with a driver knee airbag and front seat airbags of the mounted side impact variety. There is also a tire pressure monitoring system, SOS post-crash alert system, head restraints, and a brake assist mechanism. For security purposes, drivers will appreciate such standard features as the halogen reflector headlamps, rear view camera, a torque vectoring control system, and a passive anti-theft system by SecuriLock.
How the Ford Escape Stacks Up Against the Competition
The 2017 Escape shapes up well against the competition in many areas. With an average starting price of $29,100, Ford’s version of the mid-size SUV comes in a bit cheaper than both the Chevrolet Equinox and the Toyota RAV4. The Equinox has an MSRP of $30,040 and the Rav4 is $31,830. All three models seat 5 passengers.
As far as gas mileage goes, the Escape appears to be in the middle of its class with a combined rated MPG of 26. The Equinox and Rav4 both come in at 25. The Rav4 does get slightly better mileage in the city with an MPG of 25, compared to Escape’s 23. The fuel tank on the Escape is a bit smaller at 15.7 gallons than the Rav4 at 15.9 and the Equinox at a rather impressive 18.8.
The Escape appears to have many more standard features than both the Equinox and Rav4. Some of the notable differences that the Escape has and the others do not include keyless start, HD radio, a hands-free lift gate, automatic parking, heating steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, and a diode-illuminated driver’s vanity. Do keep in mind that some of these are listed as options on the Escape, while they are simply unavailable on either the Rav4 or Equinox.
Pros/Cons of the 2017 Ford Escape
The 2017 Ford Escape has many advantages over its competition, all of which make it a great candidate for purchase. One is brand loyalty. The mid-size SUV has been a staple in the Ford product line for decades. It is well established formula, and Ford works hard to maintain customer satisfaction in its products. Additionally, the body shape is contemporary and modern, yet durable. Despite the Escape being a more family-oriented vehicle, compared to Fords typical line-up, it doesn’t sacrifice any of the quality you’ve come to expect from the brand.
There are a few cons that some might notice as well, including its standard features and base MSRP. The list of standard features may seem unimpressive on most Escape models, which some drivers might find limiting. And as mentioned previously, many drivers will find this model to be lacking in some areas, leading them to consider higher trim packages. Not many consumers will be excited about spending roughly $29,000 to get into a comfortable vehicle.
Overall, the Ford Escape is still a great mid-size SUV that retains its popularity. The new design features are certainly worth taking a serious look at.
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