A huge part of why the Ford Escape is so special has to do with its drivetrain options. Escape owners will get to choose from one of four efficient powertrain options: a 1.5L turbocharged 3-cylinder engine makes 180 HP and comes standard on S, SE and SEL trims and even includes a cylinder deactivation system to save fuel, a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine can be paired to an electric motor hybrid system for a total of 209 hp. For those looking for the greenest option a plug-in hybrid powertrain is also available. Ford claims the Escape Hybrid will have a range in excess of 550 miles, while the plug-in version will be able to travel 30 miles on electric only power before the gasoline engine is obligated to kick in. For the power-hungry, a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder is also offered, making 250 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque. This engine option not only makes the Escape pretty sporty, but also increases tow capacity to 3500 lbs. The Escape comes standard with front-wheel drive, though all-wheel drive is available on all models other than the plug-in hybrid.
Ford has a history of equipping Escape models with lots of new and helpful technology and the latest Escape is no different. Available safety tech on the 2020 Escape includes a rearview camera, blind spot and rear cross traffic alert, a Lane Keep Assist program, an evasive steering assist system and a pre-collision system with automatic braking. Non-safety equipment available on the Escape includes a parking assist system that will self-park the vehicle as well as an adaptive cruise control system that can keep up with stop-and-go traffic.
Inside, the Escape has five different drive modes for owners to select, Normal, Eco, Slippery, Sport and a Snow/Sand setting. In addition, Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system now boast Amazon Alexa compatibility as well as voice activated navigation with integrated traffic information.
Sleek New Styling
Available All-wheel Drive
Practical, Yet Small Enough For The City
Clever Use Of Interior Space
Multiple Hybrid Drivetrain Choices
Ford has completely redesigned the Escape for 2020, replacing the third-generation vehicle that debuted in 2013. The latest version of the Escape has far sleeker and more aerodynamic styling, with softer edges and a sportier, lower looking stance. Despite the enhanced styling, the new Escape still has plenty of interior space, with Ford boasting about its best in class second-row legroom, welcome news for anyone who will ever have to sit in the back seat of the compact SUV. While the previous generation vehicle was already moving towards efficiency, Ford have really kicked it into high gear with the 2020 Escape, there are now not just one, but two different hybrid drivetrains available, along with a pair of highly efficient turbocharged engines.
The Ford Escape continues to be a standout in the compact SUV class where it competes with established names such as the Honda CR-V and the Toyota RAV4. The new Escape should offer fantastic value by giving buyers a good compromise between interior room, sporty looks and fuel efficiency. While other SUVs in the segment feel a little barebones, the 2020 Escape offers a slightly more upscale feel thanks to all the technology on offer, all at a starting price around $25,000.
