2024 Ford Escape
Ford is still selling the Escape. That is good news for those of us who are looking for a straightforward SUV that offers everything you ask for in one.
Yet, rumor has it that we may not be seeing it on Ford’s lots in a year’s time. It is one of three gateway vehicles for Ford – all of which are built on the same platform. It shares the same underpinnings as the Bronco Sport and Maverick.
Is the 2024 Ford Escape still worth looking it? Even to buy?
A recent update gave the Escape a conventional looking front end. A large grille is distinctive with a nice texture. It is flanked by two LED headlamp units framing each side of the front clip area, sweeping back into the fenders. The Escape continues as a very contemporary design with its character line dividing the lower and upper parts of its exterior. There are plenty of rounded edge on both sides of this distinguishing line. It all ends with horizontal taillights and a sleeker roofline meeting this line.
Our tester is the top-of-the-line Platinum trim level. This model adds some bright trim, and a set of 19-inch aluminum wheels.
The dashboard features a full 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster starting with a landscape screen onto a blue background. You can start with a very clean look with just fuel range and speed, then switch to a more comprehensive gauge cluster.
The SYNC 4 infotainment system resides on a 13.2-inch tablet-like touchscreen on top of the center stack. Below it is the climate controls and some controls for the audio system. The Escape is equipped with Ford’s rotary shifter, which saves enough space for two cupholders and plenty of storage spaces. The controls on the stalks, steering wheel, and in the center stack offer plenty of logic for drivers to control.
Seating for five is possible. Up front, the available quilted leather seats were comfortable and supportive. Rear seat space is quite good with plenty of headroom for taller people. Legroom is ample, as well. Cargo space starts with a 37.5 cubic feet space behind the rear seats. The rear seats do fold down to provide more cargo space – up to 65.4 cubic feet.
This Platinum tester is powered by a 250-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder engine. It also puts down 280 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission send power to all four wheels. Overall performance was smooth with responsive acceleration all around. It was smooth and relatively quiet at highway speeds. According to the EPA, this driveline can deliver a fuel consumption average of 23 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway.
The ride quality was actually very good. The suspension managed the bumps from the road very well. Cornering response was controlled, but within a lower limit. The Escape did well in tight maneuvers on various surfaces and conditions.
The steering system offers tight turns with superb control. On-center feel was solid. We were impressed with the brakes and its stopping power. Pedal feel is good with the system providing solid stops.
There are five Ford Escape models to choose from, plus a Plug-In Hybrid. Prices start at $29,495. Our Platinum AWD tester came in with a sticker price of $44,245.
While the Escape is firmly a part of a very competitive segment where the players have stepped up their game in recent years. Competitors include the Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Mitsubishi Outlander, Nissan Rogue, Honda CR-V, Subaru Forester, Mazda CX-5, Jeep Compass, Chevrolet Equinox, and the Ford Bronco Sport.
The Ford Escape is still a relevant vehicle for those of you who want a good family transport – or, something that will transport you at any stage of your life. It is accommodating with space and performance when you choose the more powerful 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine. More importantly, it will serve you well.
Credits: CarSoup Editors
