Available hybrid powertrain that gets around 40 mpg
Cons
ဆTransmission's abrupt shifts
ဆLackluster handling
What's new
Transmission's abrupt shifts
Lackluster handling
No significant changes expected for 2024
Part of the fourth Escape generation introduced for 2020
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2024 Ford Escape ST-Line 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid EVT) 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 $3.06 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.
Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota
$97/mo for Escape ST-Line
Escape ST-Line
vs
$183/mo
Avg. Midsize SUV
2024 Ford Escape Review
byMark TakahashiCorrespondent
Mark Takahashi has worked in the automotive industry since 2001. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Mark has also contributed to Motor Trend, Auto Aficionado, Chevy High Performance and several motorcycle magazines in various roles. Mark is also a juror on the North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year Awards and can be seen regularly on the zzdcar YouTube channel and sometimes representing the company in media interviews.
The 2024 Ford Escape is the company's smallest SUV after Ford discontinued its subcompact offering, the EcoSport, a couple of years ago. The Escape measures about 8 inches shorter in length than the Ford Edge and is offered with additional hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrain options. The Escape is competitive against rival compact SUVs when it comes to practicality, comfort and efficiency, but it trails in regard to driving dynamics.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2024 Ford Escape ST-Line 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid EVT) 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 $3.06 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.
After a rather significant refresh last year, we don't expect any notable changes to the Escape for the 2024 year. That means it will likely continue as a worthy consideration in the class, but it's overshadowed by more capable alternatives. These include the Mazda CX-50, Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester. We point out where the Escape has its advantages as well as its rather significant flaws in our Expert Rating below.
zzdcar Expert Rating
Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Good
7.7
out of 10
zzdcar TESTED
Rated for you by America's best test team.
Performance
6.5/10
How does the Escape drive? We tested the Escape with the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. This engine makes plenty of power, allowing it to easily squirt through traffic and accelerate up to highway speeds. In zzdcar' testing, our Escape covered 0-60 mph in 6.9 seconds, which is better than most rival small SUVs with an upgraded engine.
Unfortunately, the automatic transmission shifts slowly and can be jerky with its upshifts. Downshifts are similar, and you'll feel multiple small shocks as you decelerate. Even the engine stop-start system bucks the Escape when it restarts the engine as you take your foot off the brake. It all feels terribly unrefined.
The Escape's handling is disappointing too. It rolls a lot and has a ponderous feel as you go around turns. There's not much grip from the tires either. As for the steering, it's very light and low-effort in the default drive mode. Selecting Sport mode gives it more heft and makes it easier to figure out where the front wheels are pointed.
Comfort
8.0/10
How comfortable is the Escape? Overall, we're happy with the level of comfort the Escape offers. The front seats are well shaped and have a pleasing amount of cushioning. The rear seats are also comfortable and provide a suitable amount of thigh support for adults. Around town and on the highway, the Escape rides in a smooth and composed manner. It's also fairly quiet at speed, with road noise the prevailing source of sound intrusion. Ventilated front seats are not available on any Escape trim.
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