Ford Escape

The Escape has been Ford's compact crossover since 2001 — RAV4 / CR-V / Tucson rival. Four generations covered post-1995. 1st gen (2001-2007): launched as 2001 model year. 3.0L V6 (200 hp) or 2.0L Zetec I4 (130 hp), 4- or 5-speed automatic. Notable: Escape Hybrid (2005-2012) — first hybrid SUV from a Detroit automaker, partially using Toyota-licensed hybrid tech. Built at Kansas City, MO. Sister cars Mazda Tribute and Mercury Mariner. 2nd gen (2008-2012): facelift more than redesign — squared-off styling, but mostly the same 1st gen platform. Continued V6, hybrid offered. 3rd gen (2013-2019): complete redesign on C1 platform shared with Focus. 2.5L Duratec I4 base, 1.6L EcoBoost turbo (later 1.5L), and 2.0L EcoBoost (240 hp turbo I4) the popular mid-trim. 6-speed automatic. Built at Louisville, KY. 2.0L EcoBoost timing chain issues plagued early-mid 3rd gen — major reliability concern. 4th gen (2020-present): redesigned on C2 platform shared with Focus / Bronco Sport / Maverick. 1.5L EcoBoost I3 (180 hp), 2.0L EcoBoost I4 (250 hp), 2.5L hybrid I4 (200 hp combined system, eCVT, FWD or AWD), and PHEV (210 hp combined, ~37 mile EV range, FWD-only). 2023 facelift refreshed front fascia, brought larger 13.2-inch touchscreen with Sync 4 on top trims. Trims: Active (base, formerly S/SE), ST-Line / ST-Line Select, Platinum, ST-Line Elite. Built at Louisville, KY for North America; some PHEV production at Valencia, Spain.