2020 Ford Escape

2020 Ford Escape Highlights

While not the cheapest Ford crossover SUV for 2020 (that honor goes to the smaller EcoSport), the Escape provides a good balance of affordability and capacity. As the first year of the fourth generation, the 2020 Ford Escape offers a lot.

Key Details

• Redesigned exterior with a sleeker, more aerodynamic look
• Available in gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains
• Standard Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of driver-assist technologies

Benefits

• Up to 44 MPG (city) / 37 MPG (hwy) with the hybrid powertrain
• Best-in-class rear legroom or cargo prioritization via sliding second-row seats
• Five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA

Learn More: 2020 Ford Escape Reliability: What To Know Before Investing In Your Purchase

2020 Ford Escape Overview

With the debut of the fourth generation, Ford cast aside the squared-off looks of previous generations in designing the 2020 Escape. Its sleek, rounded exterior departs from the automaker’s traditionally mild styling in a good way. The new Escape bears a striking resemblance to the similarly sized but substantially more expensive Porsche Macan. This compact crossover SUV also has Mazda vibes, which is another positive.

Beyond looks, the 2020 Ford Escape is packed with technology, a must-have in this highly competitive segment that includes the best-selling Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. Ford’s Co-Pilot360 provides automatic emergency braking and other advanced driver assistance systems. Meanwhile, the Escape’s streamlined and modern interior is focused around an uncluttered dashboard and a large touchscreen display.

Performance

Few people buy a compact crossover with lofty performance expectations. However, the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine delivers a punchy 250 horsepower and a smile-inducing zero to 60 mph time of 5.7 seconds. The remaining powertrains, including the base turbo 1.5-liter three-cylinder and the 2.5-liter four-cylinder plug-in hybrid, are less engaging, each offering sprint times of 7.7 seconds. However, the Escape Hybrid, also with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, is slower, taking 8.7 seconds.

Safety

Families should feel comfortable traveling in the 2020 Ford Escape as the vehicle received a top five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). At the same time, this compact SUV received an almost perfect Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Top Safety Pick+ is the highest designation.

Safety tech is another strong point of the 2020 Escape. The Ford CoPilot360 system features forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. Related options include adaptive cruise control and semi-autonomous parking support.

Driving

The 2020 Ford Escape is in the middle of the class in terms of the driving experience. It delivers a smooth and comfortable ride that’s better than the Kia Sportage but falls short against the Honda CR-V. At the same time, the Escape’s steering and agility can feel lacking against the category leader, the Mazda CX-5. All-wheel drive and supporting technology, like traction control, add to driver confidence in the Escape.

That said, the average car buyer will find time behind the wheel of an Escape more than acceptable for most tasks. However, some who come from European vehicles will quickly notice the difference as the Escape is tuned for a more mainstream audience.

Interior

The Escape excels in the passenger experience. Thanks to a sliding second row, occupants prioritize rear passenger legroom or cargo capacity. With the rear seat pushed farthest back, the 2020 Escape boasts 40.7 inches of rear legroom, more backseat space than what’s in a Ford Explorer. A tall greenhouse gives the cabin an airy and spacious feeling, amplified by the optional panoramic sunroof (which does eat into headroom).

Front-seat occupants encounter a contemporary dashboard with easy-to-understand controls and an uncluttered layout. The infotainment display sits atop the center stack, providing ready access to the infotainment system. The only thing that keeps the Escape from getting a perfect interior rating is the large C-pillars, which can impede a driver’s rear view.

Technology

2020 Ford Escape specs include ample technology. As covered, there’s the sophisticated CoPilot360 system to prevent accidents, but this Ford also shines with its infotainment and connectivity. While the base S gets a modest 4.2-inch LCD screen, the SE and above have an 8-inch color touchscreen. However, all grades come with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, voice commands, and access to FordPass Connect (for app-based features and a Wi-Fi hotspot). FordPass services include requesting roadside assistance and remote functions (like starting and stopping the engine, locking and unlocking the car, monitoring fluids, and receiving maintenance alerts). Tech options among higher trims include SiriusXM satellite radio, a head-up display, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and touchscreen navigation.

Fuel Economy

One advantage of buying a smaller vehicle is better fuel economy, and the 2020 Ford Escape doesn’t disappoint. It holds its own against the RAV4 and CR-V, even in hybrid form. Escapes equipped with the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine aren’t the most efficient, but that’s the price of increased performance. Here is the EPA-rated fuel economy for each available engine and drivetrain (front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive) in the 2020 Ford Escape.

Turbo 1.5-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder

• City (MPG): 27 FWD / 26 AWD
• Highway (MPG): 33 FWD / 31 AWD

Turbo 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder

• City (MPG): 23 AWD
• Highway (MPG): 31 AWD

Hybrid 2.4-liter four-cylinder

• City (MPG): 44 FWD / 43 AWD
• Highway (MPG): 37 FWD / 37 AWD

Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) 2.4-liter four-cylinder

• Combined (MPG): 41 FWD
• Miles Per Gallon Equivalent (MPGe): 102 (gas & electric)
• All-Electric Range: 37 miles

Check Out: Here Are The Ford Escape Years To Avoid

2020 Ford Escape Reviews

2020 Ford Escape reviews on Kelley Blue Book (KBB) are generally favorable, with owners giving this crossover an average rating of 4.0 out of 5. These consumers gave solid scores for comfort, styling, and reliability but were less positive about quality and performance. KBB editors gave the 2020 Escape a 4.3 out of 5, citing this Ford's functional interior and numerous powertrain options.

Reasons to Buy It

• Significant depreciation favors used car shoppers
• Advanced driver assistance technologies
• Sliding second-row adds versatility
• Available plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant
• Very good fuel economy on most models

Problems

• High number of recalls (11)
• Significant complaint volume (1,200 filed with NHTSA) compared to the same-year Toyota RAV4 (400) and Honda CR-V (200)
• Major of complaints involve structural issues, mainly door operation problems
• Numerous complaints about engine, powertrain, airbags, and electrical system

CoPilot’s Take

The 2020 Ford Escape is an on-target update to the compact crossover formula. It’s a sharp combination of moderate prices, styling, functionality, and technology. However, used car buyers should keep in mind that the first year of an all-new model is often the source of problems that get fixed in subsequent years.

This doesn’t mean avoiding the 2020 Escape but being diligent about particular examples you’re considering. The first step is to evaluate the pros and cons of the 2020 Ford Escape. If you’ve decided to proceed, look for pre-owned Escapes with solid repair and maintenance histories that don’t show any evidence of troublesome first-year gremlins. Always get a pre-purchase inspection performed by an experienced technician before purchasing a used car, including a 2020 Ford Escape.

CoPilot’s take on this family-friendly utility reflects the vehicle's features and traits, but it isn’t based on dependability, which can be hit or miss with any vehicle.

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2020 Ford Escape FAQs

How long should a 2020 Ford Escape last?

A 2020 Ford Escape should last around 150,000 miles with proper maintenance and care. However, the vehicle's longevity will depend on various factors, such as driving habits, environmental conditions, and the regularity of maintenance.

Is there a recall on the 2020 Ford Escape?

Yes. To date, there have been 11 recalls for the 2020 Ford Escape. Some of the issues addressed in these recalls include problems with the engine, airbags, seatbelts, and tire pressure monitoring. Owners need to check if their vehicle is affected by any recalls and have the necessary repairs completed.

What are common problems with the 2020 Ford Escape?

Some common issues that the 2020 Ford Escape owners reported include faulty doors and various problems with the powertrain and electrical system. However, it's worth noting that not all vehicles will experience these problems.

Is the 2020 Ford Escape reliable?

The 2020 Ford Escape has received mixed reliability ratings. While some owners have reported a trouble-free experience, others have encountered various issues. As it is the first year of a new generation, the 2020 model may be more prone to specific problems that are often ironed out in newer Ford Escapes. Prospective buyers should research thoroughly and have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic to assess the condition of the specific vehicle they are interested in.