While the redesigned Escape might be fun to drive and safer than the previous model, Ford’s pricing policy could prove a stumbling block.
On paper, the 2017 Escape retails for $23,600, but that’s the entry-level S version. So, as CR editor Mike Quincy points out, the mid-level, all-wheel drive SE will set you back $29,630 – and doesn’t even come with a sunroof.
On top of that, if you want some advanced safety equipment such as forward collision warning, you need to go directly for the top Titanium trim; and if you spec that one out “decently”, you’re already spending BMW X1 money.
Of course, it’s all a matter of personal preference, and Mr Quincy does point out that the 2017 Escape is fun to drive compared to its direct rivals. On top of that, Ford made changes to the Escape’s structure by reinforcing the driver door hinge pillar and modifying the front-end structure, resulting in its IIHS small overlap rating going from Poor to Acceptable.