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2005 Ford Escape SUV Review

What Edmunds Says

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Still one of our favorites in the category, the 2005 Ford Escape is a very capable small SUV thanks to its powerful V6 and hybrid electric engines, spacious cabin and carlike handling.

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Safety
Reliability

Pros

Powerful V6, quick and efficient hybrid model, large cargo capacity, comfortable interior, carlike handling, optional side curtain airbags.

Cons

Four-cylinder models feel unrefined at high rpm, so-so interior materials quality.

Available Escape Models

Use the Edmunds Pricing System to help you get the best deal:

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XLS

2.3L 4-cyl. engine
Manual transmission
Up to 21 cty/27 hwy mpg
All-wheel drive
Side/Curtain Airbags (Optional)

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Used TMV from $5,763

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XLT

3.0L V6 engine
Automatic transmission
Up to 19 cty/23 hwy mpg
All-wheel drive
Side/Curtain Airbags (Optional)

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Used TMV from $6,341

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XLT Sport

3.0L V6 engine
Automatic transmission
Up to 17 cty/23 hwy mpg
All-wheel drive
Side/Curtain Airbags (Optional)

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Used TMV from $6,683

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Limited

3.0L V6 engine
Automatic transmission
Up to 17 cty/23 hwy mpg
All-wheel drive
Side/Curtain Airbags (Optional)

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Used TMV from $7,158

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HEV

2.3L 4-cyl. hybrid engine
Continuously variable transmission
Up to 30 cty/28 hwy mpg
All-wheel drive
Navigation System (Optional)
Side/Curtain Airbags (Optional)

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Used TMV from $9,312

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2005 Ford Escape SUV

Full Review
Pricing & Specs
Road Tests (2)
Comparison
Long-Term

Long-Term Test: 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid

2005 Ford Escape Hybrid First Drive

What's New for 2005

The 2005 Ford Escape gets a freshened look and some new mechanicals. Last year's base 2.0-liter engine is replaced by a new 153-horsepower, 2.3-liter, four-cylinder engine that's available with either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission. This new engine is a more viable choice for budget-conscious buyers, and like the V6, it can be matched with a new electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system. Meanwhile, the V6 engine has been tweaked to provide improved throttle response. Antilock brakes are now standard across the line. Interior updates include a floor-mounted shifter, new gauges, upgraded seats and additional storage. The most significant improvement inside is the addition of the optional Safety Canopy rollover protection system. Further, the vehicle's structure has been modified to better absorb offset frontal impacts, and the backseat gets a full set of three-point belts. On the outside, all Escapes have reworked front and rear fascias with a new grille design and headlights. Finally, an XLT Sport model joins the lineup.

2005 Ford Escape SUV Review

Pros

Cons

XLSes for sale near you

XLTs for sale near you

XLT Sports for sale near you

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2005 Ford Escape SUV

What's New for 2005

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