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What's New?
For 2018, the Ford Escape offers a new SEL trim level that comes with features such as leather upholstery, a power liftgate, and the SYNC® 3 tech interface. Ford also revised the availability of a few of its safety and convenience features on the newest Escape. The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine is now only available on the top Titanium trim level, instead replaced by iVCT and EcoBoost® engines.
Overview
Sometimes you don’t have to change the entire car to make a big difference. The 2018 Ford Escape rides on the same platform as its predecessor and offers many of the same features. Standard equipment on the base Escape S includes SYNC® voice recognition, a tilt and telescoping multifunction steering wheel, 60/40-split folding rear bench seat, LED taillights, and more. The Escape also offers optional all-wheel drive, respectable fuel economy, an excellent amount of cargo space, and an optional hands-free power liftgate.
Whether you opt for the base S trim or find yourself drawn to the newest SEL or the prestigious Titanium, the 2018 lineup has a model to fit any crossover shopper’s needs. Stay connected on every drive with standard tech features like the MyKey® configuration feature, AppLink™ smartphone integration, Bluetooth®, a six-speaker sound system, a 4.2-inch central display and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels introduce enhanced voice controls, Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, SYNC® Connect with remote app services and onboard WiFi, a nine-speaker sound system, and a navigation system.
Pricing starts at $25,700.*
The Perfect Ride for…
Families who love making an adventure out of the everyday. The 2018 Escape seats up to five and provides plenty of cargo space for toting groceries, pets, camping gear, or whatever else you might need to transport. Its quick steering and tight suspension make every drive engaging, as does its excellent tech interface. Choose the comfortably casual SE trim if you’re looking to add some excitement when shuttling kids around in the carpool lane, or opt for the rugged luxury of the Titanium model if you enjoy taking frequent weekend getaways. No matter which option you choose, you are sure to escape the humdrum routine of basic, everyday driving.
Drive & Handling
The base 2018 Escape is equipped with front-wheel drive and powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder V6 engine that’s mated to a 6-speed transmission and delivers 168 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. Fuel economy is an EPA-estimated at 21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.**
Upgrade to the SE or SEL trims and you'll drive an Escape equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine that receives a slightly more powerful 179 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. The Titanium's available turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine packs in the power with 245 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. Fuel economy is estimated at 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.**
Key Features
SYNC® 3
This infotainment system takes everything you love about the original SYNC® system and upgrades it. Enjoy voice-activated technology, hands-free calling, Apple Carplay™, Apple Maps, Android Auto™, Google Maps™, FordPass®, and much more. An in-dash screen reacts quickly to swipe and pinch motions, making it easy to control all of the available features from behind the wheel.
MyKey®
This handy feature allows you to configure one or more of your Ford keys to control your vehicle's safety settings, even when you're away from your car. It's a great way to reinforce better driving habits for your children, or simply assure yourself that you're driving at peak safety. Use this feature to give yourself —and your family—optimal peace of mind.
Alternative Options
If you're in need of something a little larger, the Ford F-150 is as recognizable as it is reliable. This spacious truck seats up to five and has plenty of safety features so you can travel confidently. If you’re looking for something slightly smaller but still just as capable, take the Ford Explorer for a test drive. It can also transport up to seven people and can be upgraded with the Trailer Tow Package if you need to haul gear.
Gallery
* Starting MSRP excludes destination/delivery charge, taxes, title and registration. Optional equipment not included. Starting A, Z and X Plan price is for qualified, eligible customers and excludes document fee, destination/delivery charge, taxes, title and registration. Not all vehicles qualify for A, Z or X Plan. All Mustang Shelby GT350 and Shelby GT350R prices exclude gas guzzler tax.
** EPA-estimated city/hwy mpg for the model indicated. See fueleconomy.gov for fuel economy of other engine/transmission combinations. Actual mileage will vary. On plug-in hybrid models and electric models, fuel economy is stated in MPGe. MPGe is the EPA equivalent measure of gasoline fuel efficiency for electric mode operation.
Image Credit: Ford
