Now is the time to consider the Ford Escape if you've been thinking about it for a while. Ford has confirmed that either the 2025 or 2026 model year is the end of the road for this compact SUV (to be replaced by an electric vehicle that hasn’t been named yet.) Is it one of the best compact SUVs for 2025? Let’s take a look!
Key Takeaways
- The 2025 or 2026 Ford Escape is the final model year before being replaced by an EV.
- The Escape carries over from 2024 unchanged.
- You’ve got two engine choices to choose from in the Escape, and towing tops out at 3,500 pounds.
Powertrain Options Are Nothing New, But Still Solid
The Escape comes with two engine options: a base 181-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder and a more powerful 250-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder. The smaller engine gives you the option of front- or all-wheel drive, while the larger engine is all-wheel drive only. Both mate with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
If you plan to haul a trailer or small camper, you’ll want the 2.0-liter engine with the available Class II Trailer Tow Package—it’s rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds—not bad for a compact SUV!
Fuel Economy Is More Than Respectable for a Gas-Only SUV
One of the Escape’s strengths is its efficiency. The base 1.5-liter three-cylinder gets an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. That’s solid for a gas-only vehicle, especially if you’re comparing it to others in the same class that require you to upgrade to a hybrid to get similar numbers.
The Escape Has More Room Than You Might Expect
The Escape’s cabin is a bit of a mixed bag, depending on which trim you’re looking at. Base models have some cheaper plastics that don’t feel quite as nice, but higher trims like the ST-Line and Platinum clean things up a bit. You’ll find textured cloth upholstery in the lower trims and decent-looking faux leather in the Platinum.
The rear seat is roomy, even for adults, and cargo space is excellent for this class.
A Strong Showing in Tech and Infotainment
Tech-wise, the Escape holds its own. Lower trims come with an 8.0-inch touchscreen, but you can upgrade (or choose a higher trim) to get the bigger 13.2-inch display. The interface is Ford’s latest SYNC 4, which includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
You can also outfit the Escape with some worthwhile upgrades, including built-in navigation to help you find your way and a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system that takes your music and podcasts to the next level.
Should You Buy the 2025 Ford Escape?
If you want a small SUV that’s easy to drive, roomy, and efficient (and you’re not quite ready to jump into EV territory) the 2025 Ford Escape is worth a serious look. It may not have all the flashiest updates, but it’s a solid, practical vehicle that won’t be around much longer.
Come to our Russellville showroom to take one for a spin before it’s gone for good!