Ford Escape- the history of the model
The compact SUV joined Ford lineup in the early 2001. Key priorities for this SUV are the safety, comfort, and fuel economy. This Ford was a pioneer in the SUV class because of its hybrid engine. The compact crossover was one of America’s favourite models back in the SUV craze in the 2000s.
2001-2004 Ford Escape First Generation
The new compact SUV developed with the help of Mazda was almost the same as a Mazda Tribute. Ford Escape had enough room for 5 people to be comfortable in it despite its size being on the smaller size. It came standard with front-wheel drive and 2.0L engine mated with a 5-speed manual. The most powerful engine for the model was the 3.0L V6 with a 4-speed automatic. The Escape had optional Control Trac II four-wheel-drive system and a towing package that allowed the vehicle to pull up to 3500 lbs.
2005-2007 Ford Escape First Generation Facelift
In 2005, a hybrid engine made an appearance. Its fuel consumption was astoundingly better than the 3.0L V6.
2008-2012 Ford Escape Second Generation
Ford Escape’s design got modernised, giving the SUV a cleaner and modern look. It kept its old platform and drivetrain. Ford also updated the interior of the Escape to match its square design, but this time they used better materials for the inside. In the highest trim, the manufacturer equipped the SUV with power window, power mirrors, power driver's seat, leather seats, cruise control, and climate control. The usage of a 6-speed automatic became almost a standard for the model. Ford paired only its 2.5L engine with a 5-speed manual. The innovation came with its 2.5L mated with a CVT transmission, giving combined fuel consumption of 32 MPG.
2013-2016 Ford Escape Third Generation
The second generation didn’t get a facelift. Ford went straight to the third generation of the Escape, which was known as Ford Kuga in Europe. This generation of Ford Escape was 100% developed by Ford, unlike its predecessors. They designed the car in Europe with a footprint similar to the Ford Focus. The American Escape didn’t have a diesel engine, unlike its European brother. Ford fitted the base model in Europe with a 2.5L inline-four diesel with a 6-speed automatic. Ford offered a 1.6L EcoBoost gasoline engine for better fuel economy and a 2.0L EcoBoost for the drivers that wanted to enjoy some sportiness in this SUV. In 2017, the Escape gets a facelift with its body being reshaped and more technology being integrated in it. It was the first vehicle that had the SYNC Connect available. The system allowed users to unlock doors, check for fuel levels, tire pressure, and even locate where the car is parked. Other driving assists were integrated into the facelifted Escape, making it extremely safe for driving.
2020- Ford Escape Fourth Generation
The designers gave the 2020 Escape smoother look than its predecessor and it being longer, wider, and lower Ford’s engineers achieved in making it more fun and easy to drive it. In its launch campaign, this generation of Escape is being promoted as an eco-friendly vehicle. Ford installed an innovative hybrid propulsion system based on a 2.5L Atkinson cycle engine paired with a CVT. The hybrid version is being sold only as an FWD with the power output of 198hp. They also sold the Escape with their new gasoline engines that covered the strictest regulations. Sportiest version of the model was equipped with 2.0L. EcoBoost producing 250 hp and 275 lb.-ft. of torque. A FWD option was available for the 1.5L EcoBoost. The new standard transmission for the Escape became the 8-speed automatic. Which helped the car to get good fuel efficiency and have a smoother ride.