Take the 4th-Generation Ford Escape on Your Next Family Adventure

If you searched “used Ford for sale” online looking for one that’s family-friendly yet fun, the Ford Escape is a great option. This model first debuted as early as 2001, and while there are older used models available, we recommend sticking with the most recent generation. The 4th-generation Ford Escape started in 2020 and is still ongoing, offering both hybrid and gasoline engine options, better cargo space than other popular models in its class, and much more. The Escape can also tow small items like boats, compact campers, and small cargo trailers. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this model both commuter and adventure-friendly.

Flexible Engine Options

You get to pick which one you want the most—maximum fuel-efficiency or power. Even the most powerful Escape engine still reaches up to 26 MPG (miles per gallon) combined. This 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine produces 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. Choosing power does not mean you’ll go broke buying fuel, though. Keep in mind that the more fuel-efficient Hybrid Escape engine can get up to 41 MPG combined and as much as 44 MPG on the highway. This is made possible thanks to the optional 2.5-liter Atkinson Cycle I4 hybrid engine, which still produces up to 200 horsepower and 155 pound-feet of torque.

The biggest difference between the Escape’s most powerful engine (the 2.0-liter EcoBoost) and its hybrid, fuel-efficient engine (the 2.5-liter Atkinson Cycle I4 hybrid) is that the EcoBoost allows you to tow up to 3,500 pounds, whereas the hybrid engine is not tow-capable. So, when you consider power over fuel-efficiency, keep in mind that the power rating isn’t just about racing or showing off—it’s also about capability. If you don’t have to worry about towing, you’re better off choosing the hybrid engine. However, if you’ve got a camper to pull or a trailer to haul, you should stick with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine.

There are a few other engine options as well, including a plug-in hybrid and a smaller, more fuel-efficient 1.5-liter gasoline I3 engine. The plug-in hybrid engine is actually the most fuel-efficient option, reaching up to 117 MPGe on a full tank and full charge. The downside here is that you do have to charge your vehicle via a plug-in charger, just like you would an EV. The only difference between a plug-in hybrid and an EV is that the plug-in hybrid runs on electric charge and gasoline alike. The 1.5-liter gasoline I3 engine’s biggest difference is in fuel efficiency, torque, and horsepower ratings. It isn’t as peppy as the 2.0-liter engine, maxing out at 181 horsepower and 190 pound-feet of torque, but it gets a higher 30 MPG combined fuel economy rating.

Space and Other Interior Features

While compact SUVs are obviously not designed to be huge, the more space you can comfortably fit, the better. The 4th-generation Ford Escape is the top of its class, offering better passenger legroom and cargo space than many top competing models. For example, it offers up 40.7 inches of second-row legroom, thanks to sliding second-row seating. Furthermore, the Escape has 65.4 cubic feet of cargo room, more than the Chevy Equinox, Jeep Compass, and Cherokee models.

In addition to space, the 4th-generation Ford Escape also offers several convenient interior technologies. This includes an available panoramic sunroof on the SE, SEL, and Titanium trim levels. No matter which trim you choose, you’ll get a standard rotary gear shift dial that’s easy to use and saves space. Your park brake is included as a simple switch below the rotary dial, rather than the traditional lever style.

You’ve also got FordPass Connect compatibility, meaning that you can access remote start, remote unlock/lock, a vehicle finder, and much more from a simple Ford phone application. Can’t remember if you need to get fuel before heading to work? You can check your fuel and oil levels via the FordPass Connect app, too. You can even pre-schedule your maintenance visits here or schedule last-minute service appointments and checkups when you notice vehicle issues.

This app also gives you access to trackable 24/7 roadside assistance and a Wi-Fi hotspot to aid in work and entertaining the kids. Speaking of entertainment, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto audio streaming come standard with the 4th-generation Escape. You can also add BOSE’s impressive 10-speaker sound system for an additional fee.

Safety and Security

The Escape offers several standard and available safety features. Ford Co-Pilot360 is standard across all models for no additional price. This is a safety suite that includes 6 different driver-assist technologies. In addition to these technologies, drivers can choose from optional Active Park Assist 2.0, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Evasive Steering Assist features. Let’s take a closer look at the 6 standard features first.

Ford Co-Pilot360 includes the following features:

Blind Spot Information System – When another vehicle is passing you, but located in your blind spot, this technology sends alerts letting you know it’s not safe to switch lanes.
Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking – Accidents aren’t always preventable, but this technology can notify you when an accident is possible. It will even automatically stop the Escape by automatically applying the brakes for you.

Cross-Traffic Alerts – This technology can detect pesky parking lot aisle traffic. When you’re trying to back out from a parking space, you’ll get an alert if the coast isn’t clear.

Lane-Keeping System – Lane drifting is more common than we’d like to admit. If you have trouble keeping between the lanes, this technology will keep you in the appropriate lane.

This safety suite also includes a rearview camera and auto high-beam headlamps. If you want to add additional technologies, you can do so for an additional fee. Furthermore, higher trim levels may include these features for free.

Active Park Assist 2.0 can automatically park your vehicle for you It is designed to specifically help with parallel and perpendicular parking. Adaptive Cruise Control keeps the perfect distance between you and the vehicle ahead by adjusting to the traffic flow. You set your desired speed, just like you would with classic cruise control, except that Adaptive Cruise Control won’t make you brake when traffic slows down. Finally, Evasive Steering Assist provides additional steering support if you have to swerve or dodge a last-minute object.

Escape With Your New Ford Model!

The 4th-generation Ford Escape is a diverse and spacious compact SUV. Whether you prefer the hybrid, commuter-friendly option, or you want something with a bit more pep and tow capability, there’s an Escape for you and your family. But due to so many specs and options, it’s hard to know exactly which model is the right one for you. We’re here to help you narrow down the choices and bring home the model you deserve. If you need help picking a color, a trim, or an engine, feel free to ask us for assistance.

Our team is here to make sure you get the model you want without lowering your standards. If we don’t have your exact model on our lot, just let us know, and we’ll do our best to find one. Once you make your final decision, you can count on us to walk you through the process quickly and easily. Visit Kings Ford on-site today or visit our website to learn more about the 4th-generation Ford Escape. We look forward to making your buying experience the best one yet.