Entry Price: $23,100
Price as tested: $32,475
It’s been a while since we’ve been behind the wheel of a Ford vehicle, so this week we’re happy to review the top line 2016 Escape Titanium with 4WD mechanicals. Our tester’s base price is $27,400 for front drive or $29,700 for the 4WD version. However, rest assured that Ford hasn’t forgotten those working on a tighter budget, specifically the entry level and well equipped Ford Escape S that starts at just $23,100. All Escapes arrive with the SelectShift six-speed automatic transmission as standard fare along with a bevy of safety features included a rear view safety camera.
It’s the top rung Escape Titanium, however, that we drive this week featuring an endless line of driver and passenger amenities that wrap the occupants in a cocoon of modern luxury. As for performance, our Escape came with the $1,195 optional 240-horsepower 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbo four cylinder, which replaces the usual Titanium 4WD power plant 1.6 liter EcoBoost that puts out 173 horses. The entry Titanium S comes with a normally aspirated 2.5-liter fuel injected four that delivers 169 horses.
Ford’s EcoBoost engineering efforts, meanwhile, deserve extra praise. Specifically, Ford has made a major commitment to build more engines that come in small packages yet deliver outstanding performance and fuel economy. Its’ EcoBoost offerings come in many shapes and sizes throughout its car and truck line although the core technology surrounding the carmaker’s efforts center on turbo charging and fuel mileage enhancement. Be it competing at the highest forms of professional road racing with its Ford EcoBoost Prototype sports cars to the popular Ford F-150 pickup, you can be sure that an EcoBoost engine is available. Most recent is an EcoBoost four-cylinder Mustang that we hope to test drive later this year.
Back to our Titanium.
Classified as a small SUV by the EPA, Ford Escape Titanium has made significant upgrades – both aesthetically, mechanically and in creature comforts through three generations since model year 2001. New for 2016 is a Sync3 infotainment system that replaces the former MyFord Touch entertainment system that I always had trouble figuring out. Other than that, Ford has zeroed in on more subliminal refinements the last few years including a quieter ride, more standard safety features and interior upgrades. An overall very good looking SUV, Escape is a member of Ford’s trio of SUV offerings that include the mid-sized Explorer and full-size Expedition.
On the road, you’ll quickly realize that the 231-horse EcoBoost is for real, especially the power under your foot at lower RPMs thanks to the turbocharger. Years ago, when a manufacturer featured a turbocharged engine, the result was always a low end lag or pause in acceleration until the exhaust pressures had time to turn the turbos and add to the incoming air and fuel mixture. Not so with the modern Ford EcoBoost engines, as right from the get go the EcoBoost engines are ready for any task, including outstanding acceleration.
Motivating around country roads results in sporty handling and the 4WD underpinnings came in handy as brutal cold and snow hit our area. The independent suspension and 4-wheel ABS discs with traction control make for steady handling while the automatic 4WD worked to perfection when needed. There’s hardly any lean at all in sharp corners, and the 19-inch Continental tires on Alloy Luster Nickel Wheels ($695 more) add to the traction grip abilities.
As for room, rear seat passengers won’t be cramped as legroom is adequate while the front seat occupants will enjoy Titanium’s pleasing full leather heated seating. A Sony 10-speaker stereo entertainment adds to the experience as do modern day high-tech items like a reverse sensing system and automatic rear hatch with hands free abilities. All the air bags and numerous other safety features are standard, which your Ford dealer will gladly explain in detail when you visit the showroom. The final option on our tester was a $1,735 Technology Package featuring Bi-Xenon headlamps with signature lighting, blind spot information system with cross-traffic alert, rain-sensing wipers and active park assist.
Important numbers include a wheelbase of 105.9 inches, 3,732 lb. curb weight, from 34.3 to 67.8 cu. ft. of cargo space, 15.5 gal. fuel tank and towing capacity up to 3,500 lb. with tow package. EPA numbers for the more powerful 2.0 EcoBoost are 22 city and 30 highway for the front drive or 21 and 28, respectively, for the 4WD. (The 1.6 EcoBoost delivers 23 and 32 front drive or 22 and 29 4WD while the 2.5 Duratec engine comes in at 22 and 31 for front drive only as Escape 4WD’s all feature the EcoBoost engines).
Ford’s Escape, in any dress, is a well-built and good looking small SUV worthy of consideration if shopping this market. Your dealer will explain any current incentives and/or special discounts.
Likes: EcoBoost engines, cabin amenities, good handler, quiet ride
Dislikes: New Sync 3 infotainment still cumbersome, top level Titanium price puts you in Explorer land, not much else.
(Greg Zyla is a syndicated auto columnist).
