3.6
Overall Rating
Overview
The 2025 Ford Escape continues to stand out in the compact SUV market with its sleek exterior design, turbocharged engine options, and user-friendly technology. Fun to drive and packed with practical features, the Escape balances power and everyday usability, making it a versatile choice for families and commuters alike.
There are a few factors to consider, though, including the less overall sporty feel of the drive handling and less-than-ideal plastic-like interior trim features on the lower trim levels. As a compact SUV, there's plenty to like about the Ford Escape for those looking for an everyday vehicle that has more room than a passenger car without the intensity of a large SUV.
Pros
- Strong Safety Features: With advanced driver-assist technologies and a “Good” IIHS safety rating, the Escape provides peace of mind for families and commuters alike.
- Tech-Forward Options: Even the base trim includes solid technology, while the Premium Tech Package adds standout features like adaptive cruise control and a larger touchscreen.
- Responsive Powertrains: The turbocharged engines deliver ample power, especially the 2.0L EcoBoost, which offers an engaging driving experience.
Cons
- Interior Quality at Lower Trims: The plastic-like materials in entry-level models detract from the Escape’s otherwise solid interior design.
- Fuel Economy Variability: While efficient for its class, the Escape’s fuel economy falls short of hybrid-equipped competitors.
- Less Sporty Handling: The Escape’s driving dynamics prioritize comfort over agility, which may disappoint drivers seeking a more engaging ride.
The 2025 Ford Escape is ideal for families and commuters seeking a reliable compact SUV with room for passengers and cargo. Its moderate fuel economy makes it a practical choice for daily drives and long commutes, while its tech-forward features cater to modern drivers.
While it lacks the off-road prowess of the Ford Explorer or the sporty performance of the Bronco, the Escape strikes a balance between versatility and everyday usability. For those prioritizing affordability, comfort, and practicality, the Escape delivers just the right mix of features at a competitive price point.
What's new?
The 2025 Ford Escape carries over much of its design and features from the well-received 2024 model, with only a few subtle updates. The introduction of the Premium Tech Package enhances the Activ trim by adding advanced technology, including adaptive cruise control and a larger touchscreen.
Hybrid and PHEV models now come equipped with a spare tire, addressing a key practicality concern for buyers. Upper trims also offer more upscale interior options, like quilted seat designs, providing a touch of luxury for those seeking a more refined cabin experience.
3.5
Performance
Performance
The 2025 Ford Escape offers versatile powertrain options to suit a range of driving needs. The standard 1.5-litre turbocharged EcoBoost engine delivers 180 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque, while the available 2.0-litre EcoBoost provides a stronger 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque for more dynamic acceleration.
While the engines are responsive, the Escape’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) in hybrid and PHEV models feels less refined than traditional automatics, occasionally lacking smoothness during rapid acceleration. Handling is geared toward comfort, with the suspension effectively absorbing road imperfections. However, the steering feedback is muted, which may disappoint drivers seeking a sportier driving experience.
The plug-in hybrid trim adds an eco-friendly option with up to 60 km of electric-only range, making it ideal for city commutes or short trips.
3.75
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Efficiency
The 2025 Ford Escape offers a range of fuel efficiency options to fit different lifestyles. The 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine achieves 8.9 L/100 km in the city, 6.9 on the highway, and 8.0 combined, while the more powerful 2.0-litre EcoBoost comes in at 10.2 city, 7.6 highway, and 9.1 combined.
For drivers who care about getting the most out of every litre, the hybrid delivers impressive numbers at 5.6 city, 6.5 highway, and 6.0 combined. The plug-in hybrid trim goes even further with a combined 5.9 L/100 km and up to 60 km of all-electric range, perfect for city commutes. While not class-leading, these options strike a good balance between power and efficiency.
3.75
Comfort
Comfort
The 2025 Ford Escape offers a well-rounded interior designed for comfort on both daily drives and extended trips. The seats are supportive, with higher trims featuring a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and a six-way power passenger seat for added convenience. Passengers will appreciate the generous legroom and thoughtful design, ensuring a relaxed ride.
The cabin is impressively quiet, thanks to enhanced sound insulation that reduces road and wind noise, even at higher speeds. These elements combine to create a serene and enjoyable driving experience, regardless of the journey length.
3.75
Tech
Tech
The 2025 Ford Escape brings a tech-savvy edge with features that cater to modern drivers. Even the base trim includes an eight-inch digital instrument cluster, USB-A and USB-C ports, and push-button start for convenience. Higher trims elevate the experience with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch centre touchscreen, delivering an intuitive and upscale interface.
Additional highlights include wireless charging and seamless integration with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. These tech features ensure the Escape keeps pace with today’s connected lifestyle.
3.5
Space
Space
The 2025 Ford Escape offers a well-utilized interior with ample space for both passengers and cargo. With 1,062 litres of cargo capacity behind the rear seats, it easily handles grocery trips and daily errands. Folding the rear seats flat expands the capacity to an impressive 1,852 litres, making it ideal for larger loads like camping gear or luggage.
Passenger comfort is prioritized with 1,076 mm of front legroom and 1,033 mm in the rear, ensuring ample space for taller occupants. Whether it’s a family road trip or a run to the store, the Escape provides the versatility to meet a variety of needs.
3.25
Style
Style
The 2025 Ford Escape features a clean and modern design, with subtle updates that maintain its appeal in the compact SUV segment. The exterior combines bold character lines and a confident stance, giving it a refined yet approachable look.
While the Escape’s styling leans toward practicality, its bulkier proportions may feel less dynamic compared to sleeker rivals. However, thoughtful details like the available blacked-out grille on higher trims add a touch of sportiness, ensuring the Escape remains a stylish option for its class.
4
Reliability
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Reliability
The 2025 Ford Escape scores an impressive 82 out of 100 on the J.D. Power consumer rating system, showcasing its solid reputation for quality and dependability. With minimal design flaws or malfunctions, the Escape offers peace of mind for drivers seeking a reliable compact SUV.
Its strong resale value further highlights its lasting appeal, as it holds up better against depreciation compared to many competitors. For those looking for a practical and trustworthy vehicle, the Escape delivers confidence both on and off the lot.
4
Safety
Safety
The 2025 Ford Escape builds on the strong safety foundation of its predecessor, which earned positive ratings from the IIHS. Standard features like blind-spot detection and lane departure warning offer peace of mind, while higher trims enhance safety with advanced driver-assist technologies.
Notable upgrades include adaptive cruise control and a semi-autonomous driving mode, making long journeys safer and more relaxing. Whether navigating busy city streets or open highways, the Escape prioritizes driver and passenger safety across all trims.
3.5
Reliability
Value
The 2025 Ford Escape offers a diverse lineup of trims and configurations, catering to a wide range of preferences and budgets. Pricing starts at $31,949 for the base Active FWD and climbs to $46,799 for the fully equipped ST-Line Elite AWD Hybrid. Buyers can choose from gas-powered, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options, with standout trims including:
- Active AWD: $35,549 – A practical choice with all-wheel drive for added versatility.
- ST-Line Select AWD 2.0: $39,049 – Combines sporty styling with the power of a 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine.
- PHEV FWD: $43,999 – Ideal for those seeking fuel savings with a plug-in hybrid powertrain and up to 60 km of electric range.
- Platinum AWD Hybrid: $45,299 – A premium option with hybrid efficiency and upscale features.
While the Escape offers solid value, higher trims face stiff competition from rivals with more luxurious interiors or performance-focused features at similar price points. However, the variety of configurations ensures there’s an Escape for most budgets and priorities, from efficiency-focused commuters to families needing extra features.
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