What You Should Look for in a Pre-Owned Ford Escape

Finding the perfect vehicle can be tricky; not only do you need to know what you’re looking for in your next ride, but you have to narrow down the vast sea of options into a smaller pool that you can actually navigate to find what you want. This can be even harder if you’re interested in a pre-owned vehicle since you have far more models to look at beyond what’s available in the current model year. It simplifies things if you focus on just one model at a time to see what it has offered through the years and ensure you get what you need in your next ride.

If you’re interested in a compact SUV at your favorite used Ford dealer, then the Ford Escape is the perfect model to focus on. This little beauty has been around for more than 20 years, and throughout that time, it has been a popular option, which means you’ll find a lot of them out there-in great condition-on the used market. Even narrowing things down to only the Ford Escape still leaves you with many model years to look at, so we thought it would help to quickly go over some key things you should have in mind. In particular, we will break down the generations for the Ford Escape, look at some notable model years with that in mind, and point out important trims and features to look for. Let’s dig in!

The First-Generation Ford Escape (2001-2007)

The Ford Escape first hit the market for the 2001 model year, so these are the oldest ones you’ll find. Initially offered as either an XLS or XLT model, the Escape launched with a standard 2.0L engine and a 3.0L V6 available, plus it was offered with available all-wheel drive (AWD). If you consider one of these first-generation Escape models, then we strongly recommend you choose one with the available V6 engine since the boosted power was quite popular on its release.

Another thing to remember is that Ford gave the Escape a mid-cycle update and refresh for the 2005 model year. This includes an improved standard engine and improved safety features, including advanced airbags and seatbelt systems. 2005 also saw a re-tuned automatic transmission and an impressive hybrid engine became available. We still think a second-gen or later Escape is the way to go, but if one of these older models is better for your car budget, look for one from after this update so you can get improved features.

The Second-Generation Ford Escape (2008-2012)

For its second generation, Ford redesigned the Escape and improved it in numerous ways, including the addition of an electronic stability control system as standard on all models, which helps with cornering and improves overall performance. For those looking to find a lower-cost vehicle that has great modern features, this is the generation to look into.

A 2.4L engine remained standard for the 2008 model year, though Ford replaced it with a new 2.5L engine for 2009 for improved performance. The available 3.0L V6 was significantly improved for superior horsepower and torque, so you get a better driving experience with a second-gen Escape no matter which engine you find. Ford also re-tuned and improved the suspension for the second generation, along with the braking system, to create a superior experience overall.

These second-generation models have XLS, XLT, and Limited trim levels, and the hybrid powertrain remains an available option, so keep that in mind as you look at used Escapes. For the 2009 model year, the four-speed automatic transmission was replaced by a six-speed automatic-if you’re looking at second-gen options, we suggest skipping 2008 models and going for 2009 or later. There were other minor improvements from year to year, but nothing major through the end of this generation.

The Third-Generation Ford Escape (2013-2019)

For the 2013 model year, Ford released a redesigned, all-new third-generation Escape. The redesign includes significant improvements such as a 10% increase in aerodynamics, the MyFord Touch entertainment system, and an available Foot-Activated Liftgate. A 2.5L I-4 engine is standard on 2013 base Escape models, with a couple of EcoBoost turbocharged engines available for boosted performance and impressive fuel efficiency in higher trims. Ford discontinued the manual transmission at this point, so all third-gen Escape models feature a six-speed automatic.

You can find a starting S trim for the Escape with front-wheel drive (FWD) or higher trims such as the SE, SEL, and Titanium that have either FWD or available AWD. For third-generation models, the standard engine was improved for greater performance with the 2015 model year. The SEL trim was briefly discontinued after its first year in this generation but returned for the 2018 model year. The 2017 Ford Escape features a mid-generation update and refresh, including a new front fascia, reshaped exterior lighting, and more design improvements. Ford’s Sync 3 Infotainment system replaces the MyFord Touch system from previous years, while enhanced safety tech like a forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control become available.

The Fourth-Generation Ford Escape (2020-Current)

If you want a great used Ford Escape with some of the latest features and technology you’ll find on current models, stick to the fourth generation. Launching with the 2020 model year, the fourth-gen Escape has once again been redesigned and is now 200 lbs lighter than the previous generation. Despite this reduction in weight, it’s actually a bit longer and has a wider track, which has made the interior of the Escape more spacious for you and your passengers. An 181-hp turbocharged 1.5L engine is standard on 2020 models, with a 250-hp turbocharged 2.0L engine available if you want more power; you can also find these used Escape models with a standard hybrid or plug-in hybrid engine.

The fourth generation for the Escape kicks off with five trim levels to consider: the starting S, an enhanced SE, an SE Sport, the impressive SEL, and the pinnacle Titanium trim. The SE Sport trim only lasted the first year and became an available package for the 2021 and 2022 model years, making the lineup easier to navigate as you look at used models. You can still find FWD and AWD models, and the non-hybrids feature an eight-speed automatic transmission. Ford gives this fourth-gen Escape a refresh for the 2023 model year, including new styling for the front grille and headlights, updated rear lighting, and a revised interior. Since the update, a pair of 8.0-inch displays is standard for the Infotainment system and digital gauge cluster, with a 12.3-inch dashboard display and 13.2-inch Infotainment screen available.

Find the Used Ford That’s Perfect for You

As you can see, the Ford Escape has been through quite a few changes in the two decades (and counting) since it first hit the road. These changes can be fairly minor in some cases from one year to another or significant if you’re looking at a new generation for the Escape. That’s why it’s so important that you take your time when shopping for a used vehicle, consider all of your options, and check to ensure you know what you’re getting with any model you’re interested in. While your budget can dictate many of your decisions, you still have tremendous freedom when looking at different used Escape models. This freedom lets you explore what’s out there, compare different options, and make sure you get the perfect vehicle with everything you need.

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