2013 Ford Escape: Video Road Test & Review

The Ford Escape is a fresh entry into the compact crossover segment, one that offers better handling dynamics and fuel efficiency when compared to the model it replaces.  The four-door Ford Escape provides seating for five passengers and can accommodate 68.1 cubic feet of cargo with the rear row out of the picture.  The small crossover comes with side airbags for front passengers, forward airbags, a knee airbag for the driver, and side curtain airbags that extend along the entire length of the Escape's interior.  Electronic traction control and stability control also come with the Ford.

The Ford Escape S (MSRP $22,470) represents the crossover's base model, and it is equipped with the MyKey parental control system, cruise control, power windows and door locks, air conditioning, and a CD player.  The Escape SE (MSRP $25,070) offers a more appealing exterior package, 17-inch alloy rims to replace the S edition's steelies, tinted windows, satellite radio, and the Ford SYNC interface.  The Escape SEL (MSRP $27,870) adds the new MyFord Touch gauge display and vehicle interface, heated leather seats, dual automatic climate control, and a louder stereo system, while the Escape Titanium (MSRP $30,370) features 19-inch wheels, keyless entry and ignition with remote start, and improvements to both the vehicle's leather upholstery and its sound system.

The entry-level Ford Escape comes with a 168 horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder motor that is also capable of generating 167 lb-ft of torque.  Fuel mileage for this unit is rated at 22-mpg around town and 31-mpg on the highway.  A 1.6-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost engine that puts out 178 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque is also available with the Escape, and it offers fuel economy of 23-mpg city and 33-mpg highway.  The Escape Titanium benefits from a 2.0-liter EcoBoost motor that delivers 240 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque from a turbocharged four-cylinder mill while maintaining a healthy 22-mpg city and 30-mpg highway rating.  All-wheel drive is optional with the Escape, and a six-speed automatic is the vehicle's only available gearbox.

A list of cars similar to the Escape includes the 2012 Honda CR-V, 2012 Toyota RAV4 and 2012 Kia Sportage.

See more details about the 2013 Ford Escape.