2005 Ford Escape Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

by the zzdcar Experts

　　

What’s new

　　The 2005 Ford Escape gets a freshened look and some new mechanicals. Last year's base 2.0-liter engine is replaced by a new 153-horsepower, 2.3-liter, four-cylinder engine that's available with either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission. This new engine is a more viable choice for budget-conscious buyers, and like the V6, it can be matched with a new electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system. Meanwhile, the V6 engine has been tweaked to provide improved throttle response. Antilock brakes are now standard across the line. Interior updates include a floor-mounted shifter, new gauges, upgraded seats and additional storage. The most significant improvement inside is the addition of the optional Safety Canopy rollover protection system. Further, the vehicle's structure has been modified to better absorb offset frontal impacts, and the backseat gets a full set of three-point belts. On the outside, all Escapes have reworked front and rear fascias with a new grille design and headlights. Finally, an XLT Sport model joins the lineup.

　　

zzdcar says

　　Still one of our favorites in the category, the 2005 Ford Escape is a very capable small SUV thanks to its powerful V6 and hybrid electric engines, spacious cabin and carlike handling.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2005 Ford Escape XLS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 5M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.04 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$160/mo  for Escape XLS

　　Escape XLS

　　XLS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 5M) - $19,425 MSRPXLS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A) - $20,070 MSRPXLS AWD 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 5M) - $21,175 MSRPXLS AWD 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A) - $21,820 MSRPXLT Fwd 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A) - $22,535 MSRPXLT Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A) - $23,390 MSRPXLT AWD 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A) - $24,285 MSRPXLT AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A) (Most Popular) - $25,140 MSRPXLT Sport Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A) - $24,185 MSRPXLT Sport AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A) - $25,935 MSRPLimited Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A) - $24,880 MSRPLimited AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A) - $26,630 MSRPHybrid Fwd 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) - $26,830 MSRPHybrid AWD 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) - $28,455 MSRP

　　vs

　　$166/mo

　　Avg. Compact SUV

　　

2005 Escape Highlights

Type: SUVHybridSUV

　　Trim: XLSXLTXLT SportLimitedHEVXLS

　　

Base MSRP	$19,425
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	24 MPG
Cost to Drive	$160/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	29.3 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles