2012 Ford Escape

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2012 Ford Escape

Starting MSRP $21,440–$28,120


Expert Reviews

By Cars.com Staff

Cars.com National July 21, 2011

Vehicle Overview

The five-seat Escape is Ford's smallest crossover SUV. The Escape's competition includes the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Chevrolet Equinox and Hyundai Tucson. The Escape Hybrid is listed separately in the Cars.com Research section.

New for 2012

There are no significant changes for 2012.


Exterior

The Escape has a plunging chrome grille in some trim levels that would be equally at home on a Volkswagen Jetta or Golf. A raised hood and high belt line may make this SUV look tougher, but they don't do much for visibility. Exterior features include:

  • Capless refueling nozzle instead of fuel cap
  • 16- or 17-inch wheels
  • Blind spot display in side mirrors


Interior

The Escape seats five in two rows of seats. The rear seat is split 60/40 and folds to increase cargo space. Ford's optional voice-activated Sync multimedia system includes traffic and weather information. Interior features include:

  • Standard cruise control
  • Available ambient lighting
  • Available Sync multimedia interface
  • Standard MP3 jack
  • Available backup camera, displayed in navigation system or rearview mirror


Under the Hood

The Escape's optional self-parking system handles all the steering required for parallel parking. The driver must still shift the transmission into gear, as well as operate the gas and brake pedals. The driver can override the system and steer the car if needed. Mechanical features include:

  • 171-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder (171 pounds-feet of torque)
  • 240-hp, 3.0-liter V-6 (223 pounds-feet of torque)
  • Available six-speed automatic transmission
  • Standard five-speed manual
  • Drive-by-wire throttle control


Safety

The Escape features as standard MyKey, which allows owners to create settings for teen drivers such as a top speed limit, maximum stereo volume and alerts if the driver goes faster than 45 mph. Standard safety equipment includes:

  • Electronic stability system with Roll Stability Control
  • Antilock brakes
  • Dual-stage front airbags
  • Front-seat-mounted side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags

 

Additional Reviews

Cars.com Expert Reviews

Kelsey MaysCars.com NationalOctober 15, 2011
Cars.com StaffCars.com NationalJuly 21, 2011

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