The 2017 Ford Escape is a fresh mid-cycle update that compact SUV fans should definitely be looking at. It features new styling in the front and rear, and the interior has been updated as well. There are also many automatic safety features that have been implemented such as adaptive cruise, auto high beams, semi-autonomous self-parking and lane keep assist. The Ford Escape also has an updated Sync 3 infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, its larger, faster, and boasts the best graphics in the industry.
Some mechanical upgrades include electromechanical parking brakes that replace the old handbrake, an increase in horsepower from 240 to 245, and a significant torque increase from 231 lb-feet to 275. This makes accelerating from a standstill feel much more powerful and makes highway driving a breeze.
The old models of the Ford Escape used to be somewhat grill-less, but the new models run the common hexagon shaped grill, which may come as a disappointment to some. However, the newer models also include a newly designed hood and redesigned headlights.
The fuel efficiency of the 2017 Ford Escape is more than up to par. The front wheel models get around 10.6 L/100km in the city, 8.0 on the highway and 9.4 combined. The four-wheel drive model achieves 11.5 L/100km cities, 8.7 highway and 10.2 combined
The handling on the newer models is exceptionally responsive. There is enough side bolstering on the seats to keep you in place while maneuvering. The seats also feature memory, and you’ll always stay comfortable with the 3-way heater. The fully adjustable steering wheel is also heatable, along with the side mirrors too.
Some quality of life accessories includes pushbutton ignition and proximity sensing access without a key, ambient lighting, 10 speaker sony audio,110-volt households like power outlet, rear parking sensors, and more. Some of the more luxurious features might be missing in the cheaper models. The Ford Escape was also given 5 stars in overall safety by the NHTSA.
In summary, the Ford Escape is an exceptionally reliable compact SUV, but it’s not as ahead of the pack as it used to be. Many other cars are starting to implement features the Ford Escape had started using a couple years ago, and Ford’s sale numbers are definitely falling prey to them.
The 2017 Ford Escape is priced at $33,799 for the titanium model, and there are lower models that start at $27,599 and $25, 099.