2021 Ford Escape

2021 Ford Escape Highlights

The Ford Escape continues to evolve, offering a range of enhancements for 2021 that strengthen its position in the highly competitive compact SUV segment. This model year, several updates focus on improving convenience, safety, and overall value across the lineup.

Adaptive cruise control is a notable addition, included in the Co-Pilot360 Assist Plus package. Ford has also improved its optional packages. The Technology Package now includes a hands-free liftgate, adding convenience for full-arms owners. Similarly, the Convenience Package has been upgraded to include a power liftgate. Comfort sees an upgrade in the SEL trim, featuring heated front seats as standard equipment.

Competitors in the compact SUV segment include the Toyota RAV4, Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, and Mazda CX-5.

Key Details

• Compact crossover SUV body style
• Two-row, five-passenger seating
• Four powertrain options: 1.5-liter EcoBoost, 2.0-liter EcoBoost, 2.5-liter hybrid, and 2.5-liter plug-in hybrid (PHEV)
• Standard front-wheel drive (FWD) or available all-wheel drive (AWD) on most trims
• Standard Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of driver-assist technologies
• Up to 3,500 lbs towing capacity (with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine)

Benefits

• Wide range of efficient powertrains, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid options
• Comfortable ride quality suitable for daily commutes and long trips
• Spacious interior with good visibility
• Advanced safety features are standard across all trims
• Competitive fuel economy, especially in hybrid models
• Agile handling for a compact SUV

Related: How Long Do Ford Escapes Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Longevity

2021 Ford Escape Overview

Performance

The 2021 Ford Escape offers four powertrain options:

1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine:

• 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque
• Standard on S, SE, and SEL trims
• Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission

2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine:

• 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque
• Available on SEL and Titanium trims
• Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission

2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid:

• Total system output of 200 horsepower
• Paired with an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT)

2.5-liter four-cylinder plug-in hybrid:

• Total system output of 221 horsepower
• Paired with an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT)

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Escape a top five-star overall safety rating. In addition, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the 2021 Escape a "Top Safety Pick" when equipped with specific headlights. This is the organization’s second-highest award.

Standard safety features across all 2021 Ford Escape models include:

• Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of driver-assist technologies
  • Forward collision warning
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert
  • Lane-keeping assist
  • Automatic high beams
• Stability control
• Traction control
• Multiple airbags
• SOS Post-Crash Alert System

Additional safety features available on select trims include:

• Adaptive cruise control
• Evasive Steering Assist
• Active Park Assist 2.0

Driving

The 2021 Ford Escape is engineered to deliver comfort and agility behind the wheel. Its suspension is adept at absorbing most road imperfections while handling corners with confidence.

The base 1.5-liter turbo engine delivers adequate performance around town but may get taxed on highways. The optional 2.0-liter EcoBoost provides a more engaging performance. The smoothness and instant torque of the hybrid and PHEV powertrains are well-suited for the city and suburbs.

Interior

The 2021 Ford Escape's cabin blends practicality and comfort, catering to daily commuters and weekend adventurers. A driver-focused cockpit and a clever sliding second-row seat help with all these travels. This flexible feature allows passengers to toggle between maximizing legroom and increasing cargo capacity. The room is generous in both rows.

Material choices throughout the interior reflect the Escape's mainstream market position. While not luxurious, the surfaces in high-touch areas are pleasantly soft, with more durable materials used in areas prone to wear. The Titanium trim elevates the experience with leather-trimmed seating and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

In terms of cargo, the Escape holds its own against class rivals. With 37.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expandable to 65.4 cubic feet with them folded, it offers ample space for groceries, luggage, or bulky items.

2021 Ford Escape interior features available on select trims include:

• Leather-trimmed seating surfaces
• Heated front seats
• 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat
• Dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control
• Heated steering wheel
• 60/40 split-fold-down rear seatback with recline
• Ambient cabin lighting

Technology

Ford Sync 3 system underlies the Escape’s infotainment system. Key technology features available on select trims include:

• 8-inch touchscreen
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• FordPass Connect with 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot
• B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen with ten speakers
• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
• Wireless charging pad
• Head-up display

Fuel Economy

The 2021 Ford Escape's fuel economy varies depending on the engine and drivetrain. EPA fuel economy estimates are as follows:

1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder:

• FWD (mpg): 28 city / 34 highway / 30 combined

2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder:

• FWD (mpg): 23 city / 31 highway / 26 combined

2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid:

• FWD (mpg): 44 city / 37 highway / 41 combined

2.5-liter four-cylinder plug-in hybrid:

• Electric + Gasoline: 102 MPGe combined
• Gasoline only: 41 mpg combined
• Electric range: 37 miles

2021 Ford Escape Reviews

Consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book give the 2021 Ford Escape an overall rating of 3.9 out of 5. This ranking includes higher marks for reliability, comfort, and styling.

Reasons to Buy It

• Turbocharged gas engines
• Efficient hybrid and plug-in hybrid options
• Choice of FWD or AWD drivetrains
• Spacious cabin
• Nimble driving characteristics

Problems

• Some find interior materials lacking in quality
• The base engine can feel underpowered in certain situations
• Higher trims can get expensive compared to some rivals
• The plug-in hybrid model has a limited electric-only range compared to some competitors

Review: Ford Escape Heated Seats: What To Know

CoPilot's Take

The 2021 Ford Escape is a strong option in the compact SUV segment. Its engine range, from the efficient base EcoBoost to the plug-in hybrid, allows buyers to choose a model that best fits their driving needs and preferences. The hybrid models, in particular, offer impressive fuel economy without sacrificing performance.

Interior space is a compelling feature, and the sliding rear seats provide flexibility for passengers and cargo. In addition, the Escape’s car-like handling puts it ahead of many rivals. However, the base engine may feel underpowered to some drivers, and the price tag can quickly rise when all the boxes are checked, approaching entry-level luxury SUV MSRPs.

2021 Ford Escape FAQs

Is the Ford 2021 Escape a good car?

From a feature and performance standpoint, the 2021 Escape is compelling. Its spacious and comfortable interior makes transporting people and cargo a breeze. Numerous powerplant options, including hybrids, make this compact SUV even more appealing. However, the 2021 Escape has a spotty reliability record. Consumer Reports gives this vehicle a 1 out of 5 for reliability. Further, NHTSA reports show trouble patterns involving the engine, brakes, and electric system. These problems don’t affect every 2021 Escape but reinforce the importance of getting a detailed pre-purchase inspection of any model under consideration.

What is the recall on the 2021 Ford Escape?

There are currently nine recalls for the 2021 Ford Escape. Several involve engine issues ranging from oil leaks to fire risks. Problems also cover the electrical system and brakes. Two of these recalls apply to the high-voltage hybrid battery. Recall status can be checked at the NHTSA website or an authorized Ford dealer.

What is the SE package on a 2021 Ford Escape?

The SE trim on the 2021 Ford Escape is a mid-level package that offers a balance of features and value. Key features of the SE package typically include:

• 1.5L EcoBoost engine
• 8-inch SYNC 3 touchscreen infotainment system
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• 17-inch aluminum wheels
• Keyless entry keypad
• Automatic climate control
• Ford Co-Pilot360 safety suite

What are the trims for the 2021 Ford Escape?

The 2021 Ford Escape comes in several grades:

• 2021 Ford Escape S
• 2021 Ford Escape SE
• 2021 Ford Escape SEL
• 2021 Ford Escape Titanium
• 2021 Ford Escape Hybrid SE
• 2021 Ford Escape Hybrid SEL
• 2021 Ford Escape Hybrid Titanium
• 2021 Ford Escape PHEV SE
• 2021 Ford Escape PHEV SEL
• 2021 Ford Escape PHEV Titanium

Check Out: A Ford Escape Lease: Everything You Need To Know