Used 2005 Ford Escape Consumer Reviews
Used Escape for sale
Practical Car
Adam Grey, 09/23/2008
2005 Ford Escape XLS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Even though I would have liked to get something a little sexier, this car is as practical of car you can get. Having it be a stick shift helped make the car fun to drive and also allowed for better acceleration than most standard V6 cars. Never did I have one mechanical issue in the 68,000 miles that I drove it and it really does excellent on gas being it is a 4 banger. I think if you buy this car you will get a bargain as if this had a Toyota symbol on it it would be $5,000 more! I believe this car is a smart buy for those who are concerned about fuel economy, cargo space, and price.
05 ESCAPE XLT with 75,000 miles
JW, 04/09/2006
2005 Ford Escape XLT AWD 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
My Escape is a company car. At first I wasn't happy getting it, but after driving it 75,000 miles in 2 years, I now luv it. It has proven to be comfortable and reliable (I drive it aggressively). The V6 is torquey and quick. The interior design is functional and comfortable. I carry 4 adults, the rear passengers never complain.This SUV has been extremely reliable (NOTHING has broken) and seems indestructible when driven hard regularly. I've taken it off road a few times; the AWD was all I need to get through the deep mud. A snow storm dumped 25" and this SUV drove through unplowed roads and snow mounds without a problem.This SUV has proven to be tough, comfortable, reliable, speedy, and sporty. I recommend it.
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Trading in
Trading in , 01/16/2008
2005 Ford Escape XLT Fwd 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
We bought a 2005 XLD AWD Escape used in March '05 with 17,000 miles on it. As others have written, we have had problems filling up the gas tank. Gas nozzle keeps shutting off which drives my husband nuts. Started having problems with the brakes at about 50K. Mechanic replaced tires, rotated tires and put on new brake pads which solved the problem for only a little while. It probably needs new rotors, but at only 2 yrs old with 57K miles on it and 3 years left on the loan, we decided to trade it in for an older car with less miles that we could pay off sooner at $100 less/month. Overall though, this was a good car, preformed very well in the snow with the smart AWD but hard on gas.
Lincoln Aviator has baby!
cletus, 08/11/2005
2005 Ford Escape Limited AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have been driving Ford Explorers since 1990, starting with a 1991 4X4 Eddie Bauer Edition. Drove it 13 years (loved it!) Drove a 2000 Model Limited for year and a half (O.K.). Got 2005 Escape LTD AWD (gold ash metallic - beautiful!)first week of July 2005. Looks like baby of friend's Lincoln Aviator. Like it a lot. With Explorers went everywhere in snow. If the Escape with AWD equals the Explorers, then I will be a 100% Escape Fan. It's only 2 inches narrower and wheelbase is only 10 inches shorter than Explorer so no noticeable interior difference to me. My friends call me Hugh Jass.
So far so good
Daniel Allocca, 01/23/2006
2005 Ford Escape XLT Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Just bought an '05 Escape with only 12K miles. Got the XLT V6 with leather and am loving it. I considered sportier cars but decided to get 4WD and need the cargo space. Fuel mileage has been about 20mpg. Acceleration with the V6 is great. Plenty of power off of the line, and can even be fun on the highway. I fit in the car very comfortably at 6 foot 250 pounds. Overall great car. Some interior materials feel cheap, especially the door handles. Fit and finish is pretty good. My first American car purchase and am keeping my fingers crossed for long-term quality.
Got well beyond my money’s worth
Cal, 07/16/2020
2005 Ford Escape XLT Sport AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought my 05 escape xlt in 2013 with about 142,000 miles on it. I’ve had minor repairs but overall it has been a great car. I currently have 232,000 miles on it and it’s still going strong. Since I’ve owned it I had to replace the ball joints, alternator, windshield (from a rock hitting it), and a sensor but that has been it other than routine maintenance. A few low points about these early escapes is 1. that they are notorious for rusting above the rear wheel well (especially up north where roads are salted) 2. the shocks wear out as the miles climb and the ride gets bouncy (but the cost to replace wasn’t worth it in my opinion) 3. some of them can get what ford mechanics call “green wire” on the ABS wires in cold climates where salt can corrode them 4. as the miles get near the 175-200k’s you will need to watch your oil and add as needed because they can burn or leak a bit as the engine ages. Keep in mind that these are just my opinions from my experience as a cheap college student. I paid 3000$ for my escape and have 7 years and almost 100k miles of ownership (232k total miles) and my car is still going..though we will probably look to replace it soon and not push our luck. In summary, if you find a v6 xlt 3.0 liter engine with under 150k miles, that hasn’t been driven hard in harsh environments, I would highly recommend. Expect some minor repairs (probably an alternator) keep in mind your buying it used and it’s almost 15 years old, but well maintained one is worth it.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Not too bad for Ford's first attempt
Camper, 05/15/2005
2005 Ford Escape Hybrid AWD 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Living in Michigan, you get dirty looks and raised eyebrows if you don't buy American. Michigan is also very spread out, with my daily commute being 35 miles each way, mostly freeway. This SUV is just a regular 4 cylinder car at freeway speeds (70 mph), with no benefit of fuel economy. Engine sounds terrible at 70 mph. But it is great for city driving (particularly stop and go traffic). Ford says the towing capacity is only 750 lbs., which is very non-SUV like. We would not buy this again. Toyota Highlander hybrid is coming, and we are trading in the Ford for Toyota. The Toyota is much more comfortable and can tow our 1500 lb. pop up camper. So much for the eyebrows.
My Ford Escape
Desiree, 07/07/2005
2005 Ford Escape XLT Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
So far, very happy with vehicle. Very responsive, gas mileage not bad if you drive sensibly. (I average 20 mpg which is a combination of mostly city and some highway driving). Air Conditioner works very well! Stereo system pretty good as well. Perfect sized vehicle for my needs. Vehicle has firm ride.
great so far....just got it a month ago
lotekgirl, 12/14/2009
2005 Ford Escape XLT AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I just traded in my '01 Intrepid for this '05 Escape. So far my husband and I are very pleased with it. This vehicle is great if you are looking to step up to your first SUV from a car. The Escape is very responsive; it drives and handles great. I agree with other reviewers about filling the gas tank: it is annoying because you can't just put the nozzle in, lock it in place and walk away. It always clicks off a few seconds later so I have to stand there and hold it, which I never had to do with my car. The gas mileage on the v6 isn't that great. I'm constantly filling my gas tank (city driving about 90% of the time). the ignition could have been more well placed (odd spot, have to search).
My first year in my Escape Hybrid
Michael Bares, 09/20/2005
2005 Ford Escape Hybrid AWD 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
After a shaky start in my Ford Escape Hybrid I'm now pleased with my purchase. I knew that the gas prices would soar this year and wanted to be the first in Denver to have one so I found mine on eBay and flew to NJ to pick it up. I must say that Ford did respond quickly to some major trouble in the beginning -- my entire high voltage battery module had to be replaced after a couple of months and they did take care of it. Now I find the vehicle is running beautifully and fuel economy has improved to around 30mpg combined city/highway. The only misgiving I have now is having gotten a personalized plate (B-GREEN) Too many people want to talk to me in traffic and even some take pictures.
Escape 4x4
Damian, 01/21/2006
2005 Ford Escape XLT Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
The bad thing, you need to check your blind spots at least twice. Don't be in a hurry. If you are 6' and heavy set, this is not the car for you. Other than this, great look, excellent power house and handling.
I wouldn't recommend an Escape
Nolan E., 09/05/2017
2005 Ford Escape XLT Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
5 of 8 people found this review helpful
I traded in my grand Cherokee for something more economical and city friendly but what I got was a nightmare, I've put $4200 into this car, exhaust manifold catalytic converters alternator and other various things, door sensor is broken and annoys the hell out of me because the car thinks the door is open all the time, has a pretty bad idle vibration which apparently is a general thing with these escapes, the electronics and positioning of engine components are very poor I don't know what Ford was thinking when they designed this vehicle, I would recommend a 2005 explorer which is the bigger brother of this vehicle which I had no trouble from, this Escape only has 68k miles I'm fixing it one last time and slapping a for sale sign on it! Good Riddance!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Big Problems
george-e, 07/21/2009
2005 Ford Escape XLT AWD 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Great little car. Aside from the transmission going out at 50k! Had a nice Mit. Galant with over 100k still ran great, but I just thought I should get something newer.
first time hybrid not so well
mrblue3, 05/24/2013
2005 Ford Escape Hybrid AWD 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
5 of 11 people found this review helpful
bought the car only six months ago and its running in to problems. the first couple months it ran awesome what i expected, good mpg for a suv with awd. now the cooling system for the HV battery is falling apart piece by piece, that seems to be just one of fords flaw with the beginning years of the escape hybrid. first it was the cooling fans the whole kit actually, parts plus labor about 700 at dealer. now the blend door actuator is not opening to allow air in to cool the battery. from what i was told by another diagnostic the ac is not working proplery, had that diagnosed and the rear ac line going to the battery is punctered. cant wait to trade it in for a fusion hybrid
ford
spieth, 01/14/2004
2005 Ford Escape XLT Sport AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 7 people found this review helpful
It is a good car and does well in the sand and in the dirt
WELL PLEASED
D LITTLE, 05/11/2006
2005 Ford Escape XLS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I really enjoy my vehicle. My only complaint - some areas of craftsmanship appear rushed around doors and carpet areas. Also my shocks have small leak at only 22,000 miles.
Escape to Wherever you want
rltotten, 01/09/2009
2005 Ford Escape XLS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I purchased my Escape brand new. I take it up in the Colorado/New Mexico Mountains skiing and snowboarding. I love the space and gas mileage. 26 MPG avg have hit 28 mpg once. I wish this vehicle had daytime driving lights and better cup holders in the center console. The gas filing thing that others wrote about is true, Ford needs to change this design. I've flattened the rear seats and have hauled over a 1000 lbs of patio pavers at a time. This is a fun vehicle to drive and knock on wood I have had no major repairs to date. The seats do stain easy but also clean up just as easy. I would purchase another Escape no problem.
Let the fun times roll!
jdsh2, 04/19/2007
2005 Ford Escape XLT Fwd 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love my Escape. I have a black XLT Sport package. It has great pickup, it's roomy, and it's sporty and stylish. I agonized over buying this vehicle and I am so incredibly happy I did. I looked at the Mazda Tribute and even though they are made on similar lines, the Escape is peppier, has better dash setup, etc. I could go on and on. I have 5 friends that have them and they all love them too! That speaks volumes to me.
OK but I don't love it
LIK2BIK, 11/15/2005
2005 Ford Escape Limited AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I had a '97 Explorer that I loved but wanted to move down in size. Only the Escape had the truck like feel of my Explorer. But I've been disappointed by poor design and functionality that I unfortunately didn't notice and/or had to sacrifice with going with the Escape. Where does Ford get the interior design engineers? I also have a CRV which has great storage concepts and interior space usage - Ford is horrible in this department. I like the drive of the Escape, and the exterior look - but that's about it. I likely will not be keeping this for 7 years as I did my Explorer.
Great SUV
escape guy, 03/08/2009
2005 Ford Escape Limited AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We have really enjoyed our escape the last month. We got a great deal and for the money we couldn't have asked for a more useful SUV. Its great for us because where we live there isn't much room to park. We enjoy camping and the wilderness so the 4x4 will work out great for that.
Great little vehicle
Jeffrey Scott, 06/04/2005
2005 Ford Escape XLT Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We have two Escapes and this is the second "set" of them that we have purchased and we love them. They are a great small SUV and we can use them for just about anything. We are going to try the new hybrid model next year!
Not happy
highlander, 11/20/2007
2005 Ford Escape XLT AWD 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought this vehicle new in 2004. No major problems for the first 40k miles other than the "fragile" paint. It is covered with pain chips that form rust almost immediately. Next I had brake problems that were repaired free due to a service bulletin on the rotors. The spare tire release rusted out and was replaced. The seat cloth is easy to stain/hard to clean. Headlight has developed condensation problem - will be replaced shortly. The engine is now drinking antifreeze. Can't find any leaking so it must be a more severe problem. Driver side door seal torn apart due to a poorly placed screw in the door trim. Overall I'm not happy with my Ford Escape and will not be a repeat customer.
Love it!
JHTKGT, 04/11/2007
2005 Ford Escape XLS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
When we got this car, I was worried that it felt to much like a truck, rather than a car. This actually wasn't an issue, since I got used to the new feel very fast (we had never owned an SUV before). It's very easy to handle and very comfortable. I love the leather seats, tinted windows and roof rack. It is perfect for us, since we travel a lot. I actually only have one major complaint: The gas tank. This one really irritates me! Every single time I try to fill it up, the nozzle clicks off, as if it's full (when it's completely empty). My husband said it's the gas fumes in the tank, but even when I let the fumes air out before pumping, it happens every time I squeeze the nozzle handle!
2005 Escape Hybrid
Susan, 01/06/2005
2005 Ford Escape Hybrid Fwd 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
From the moment I first heard about Ford planning an Escape Hybrid, I wanted one. I got mine in early November 2004 and have been very pleased. Except for a faulty computer brake problem (which was quickly diagnosed and fixed at no expense or inconvenience to me), I am delighted to drive this car. My favorite part is the handling -- the manauvering is smooth and easy. I have already hauled some furniture and other large items for my daughter who is moving to her first apartment -- and it is easy to fit things in and move out. My husband and I drove across the mountains in cold weather and it kept pace with or outperformed all the other vehicles on the road at all altitudes.
Build better
Cathy, 01/02/2005
2005 Ford Escape XLS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I like my Escape but the only thing I don't like is the cheap interior. The fan knobs break easy and I think they should use a higher quality material.
Research before buying
What Savings???, 03/05/2005
2005 Ford Escape Hybrid AWD 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I purchased the Ford Hybrid without doing much research. I read the ads and believed them. My experience with driving the vechicle is far from the ads. The Hybrid I drive gets only 23 mpg average as opposed to the listed 33 to 29 on the sticker. My 93 Ford Explorer gets that kind of mileage, so I don't think it is my driving that is making the difference. In my opinion the design of the accelerator is the problem. The engine comes on when you accelerate too fast (they say). I accelerate at a creep (holding up traffic) and the engine comes on at 15 mph. The engine comes on if you turn on the AC or heater even more often than normal. With that, it is impossible to save gas, even in town.
Would buy another
Buyaford, 11/14/2004
2005 Ford Escape XLT Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Like the ease of loading and unloading groceries,golfclubs,and boxes from shopping trips. Vehicle is sound and secure and I like the way it handles like a car rather than a truck. The ride is very smooth on the freeway and with the sixteen inch tire upgrade it handle the bumps very well. Would recommend this vehicle to anyone. Ford has improved quality overall and I will continue to buy American as long as they continue to build quality vehicles.
2005 Escape XLT Sport
Holly, 03/11/2005
2005 Ford Escape XLT Sport Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Poor gas mileage, about 250 miles per tank. Tank is only 16.5 gallons. That is the only complaint I have.
2005 AWD ESCAPE LIMITED - AWESOME !!!!
SIDENISE, 07/29/2004
2005 Ford Escape Limited AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I just luv my new Escape. This is the first SUV I've owned cuz the others really did not appeal to me. I receive alot of compliments on my Escape. Everyone seem sto luv the Metallic Gold Ash exterior color. The Mach sound system is one of many of my favorite features.
Outstanding small SUV
Brian , 10/30/2005
2005 Ford Escape XLT Sport Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My wife and I purchased this vehicle with the safety canopy and our first child on the way. This car feels solid and is a blast to drive. The 3.0 liter engine is outstanding for car of this size and weight and the transmission, although a 4 speed has been smooth and feels well matched.
Excellent Vehicle, but not for everyone
studmonsh, 03/31/2005
2005 Ford Escape Hybrid Fwd 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love my new hybrid. Room of an SUV with the economy of a small car. Quite a few options, but I would have liked to seen more. Other than that, I'm very pleased. Best gas mileage in the city since the brakes regenerate the energy stored in the battery, which operates the engine up to 30-35 mph. Be warned-if you plan on putting a lot of highway miles on it, you're going to get close to the same efficiency of a regular Escape, which is still great for an SUV, but if you're paying the extra for hybrid technology, you'll want to make sure you'll make up for it by what you save on gas. Bottom line-it's not for everyone. Great for stop-and-go traffic and city driving.
Bill's 05 Escape
Bill Street, 05/07/2004
2005 Ford Escape XLT Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I like my 2005 Escape XLT better then my 2001 Loncoln LS. Both had the Ford V6 engine but the Escape is very Quiet and Solid! The new floor shifter makes the Escape look and feel sporty! The new front bucket seats feel great. My only complant is the Escape needs a larger gas tank,try going to 18 gal up from 16! If you don't drive this car before you buy, you will never see how much FORD has done to get you BACK!
Awesome performance, great price
djrobsd, 03/28/2004
2005 Ford Escape XLT Sport Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love driving my escape. As a former Mustang GT Convertable owner, I didn't think the Escape would live up to my expectations. However, I recently took up skiing and got a dog, so the Mustang didn't meet my needs any more. I miss it, but I love my little Escape. When you step on the accelerator, it MOVES! And it passes with ease. The transmission shifts smoothly and responsively. I think it goes 0-60 in 8 seconds flat which is NOT BAD for an SUV! Cargo room is plentiful and the Escape is a solid and reliable vehicle for the money. So far after 13,000 miles, the car has been reliable with no defects or problems.
Not quite there yet...wait a while
zadscmc, 04/11/2005
2005 Ford Escape Hybrid AWD 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
While the mileage is good (28mpg), the intstrumentl cluster has not been modified to the needs of a hybrid. No battery gauge (full/empty), no engine heat gauge (for hybrid efficency a need to know). CVT is horrid, needs a manual transmission. Interior doesn't work for a short person (5 foot) as the cupholders are hard to reach and the between seat storage is behind the seat. Dashboard is hard to read at dusk.
Fun to drive & good mileage
gatorgator, 05/19/2004
2005 Ford Escape XLS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The 2.3L 4 cylinder engine with the 5 speed manual transmission is zippy! Plenty of power and very fun to drive. Ride is comfortable.
Love it
erica27, 07/18/2008
2005 Ford Escape XLT Fwd 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have had my Escape for almost a year and a half and I absolutely love it! I am a senior in college and it's everything and more I could want in a car! My previous vehicles were sedans and the Escape drives like a car, but I love sitting higher in traffic and would not trade this car for anything! I hit a deer a few months ago and I know that I would have been injured if I were in a sedan. It is so spacious. I am now the designated driver on road trips, but it's well worth it because all my friends love the car too and we all fit comfortably! I plan on graduating college and heading off into the real world in this vehicle!
2005 Escape Review
cb, 04/14/2005
2005 Ford Escape Limited AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Ride feels very comfortable. Interior feels larger than exterior dimensions of the vehicle would indicate. Steering is very responsive. Ergonomically, things are designed very well. Exterior is nicely designed as well. Dashboard and instrument panel is clean, intuitively easy to use, without being too cluttered. Very nice sound system.
Lease be gone..yee haw!
marsan5, 09/29/2008
2005 Ford Escape XLT AWD 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We just finished our lease on this SUV. Pro's are lots of cargo space, zippy around town and easy to drive. Con's are brakes not designed well for rural use, rotors and brakes non stop getting fixed, AWD got locked on one day on pavement. Bit of a gas pig. We had cloth seats and they stained if you looked at them! Three kids in the back is too crammed up. The door sills are too high, trapping mud and snow in like crazy. Cheap interior. The nerf bars stink in snow as they bottom you out, and when driving AWD when you get stuck, you are stuck!
Not bad but needs improvements
Nolan, 01/13/2008
2005 Ford Escape XLT AWD 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this 05 XLT AWD 3.0L with 25000 miles on it and its been very good on road and off road whether its snow or mud. I've read alot of complaints about noise level of tires, I can't say I agree I find it very quiet with the OEM tires on it. I installed a K&N air filter which gave me on average a noticeable increase on fuel mileage per tank.
Go Anywhere
ecila5200, 05/12/2005
2005 Ford Escape XLS AWD 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This was my first winter driving experience with the 2005 Ford Escape and I couldn't ask for a safer drive. We get a lot of snow here in Newfoundland and winter driving can take its toll on some vehicles. But the Ford Escape came through with flying colors.
I must have bought a lemon
Mark, 12/07/2016
2005 Ford Escape XLT Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought my 2005 Escape XLT 3 years ago and it has cost me more money in repairs than any vehicle I have ever owned. Since I have owned it I have had to replace the alternator, (the car just died while I was at a stop light), tie rods, ball joints, brakes (normal wear though), and the latest is my back end went totally out. This means I have had to replace the rear axle, differential, and trailer bushings (whatever those are). All to the tune of $2,300.00 which brings my total repairs total to about $6,000.00 not including oil changes. I really like to vehicle but I have to get rid of it.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Good portability
mike, 03/21/2008
2005 Ford Escape Limited AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought the Escape in 06 to replace my 04 full size Sierra. Hoping to save on gas. Well I do a little bit but not as much as they claimed I would. Being a carpenter I needed something I can pack full of tools. I can do that pretty easliy with the Escape. I love how I can basically eliminate the rear seats altogther to create that flat bed back there. I don't like the cheap plastic bumper that dosn't hold up well to cold weather or minor bumps. At 63,000 miles its is now making a "drive line whine" is what the dealers say it is and it's nothing to worry about. So that's kinda annoying. The gas tank is very annoying as well as I find myself having to hold the pump the entire time.
Car is a gas hog!
Fran, 08/13/2005
2005 Ford Escape Hybrid Fwd 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I'd hoped to come close to the sticker advertised MPG rating but so far, can't come close. I am not a hot rodder, but a 76 year old female who drives to drive the posted speed limit, city or highway and don't dig out at stop signs. The last fill up I got 17.95--not anywhere near the 33 or 29 MPG as advertised. I wished I had kept my 2000 Sable, as I got 24 MPG with that and did not have to sit in a furnace at a stop light unless I turn on the Max Air which turn on the engine. I have conferred with the dealer two times, the last time they said I should try PREMIUM GASOLINE!!! I bought this vehicle for economy not to break my budget. Is anyone else out there getting this bad gasoline mileage?
Best Fit
olcrank, 08/31/2007
2005 Ford Escape XLT Fwd 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This vehicle does all we want it to. Also have a 4WD 2003 Escape w/no problems. These vehicles are the most practicle,easy-to-drive,comfortable on the road. I drove all kinds of SUV's and pickups over a 35 year career as a mine inspector in the central Mt's. of PA (the last being a 2001 Escape). 45,000 miles of mud,dust,water and with regular maintenance no problems.Sure,it wouldn't go some of the places a Jeep could( didn't have the ground clearance)but I was impressed enough to replace two personal cars- a Durango and a Cherokee with the Escapes and have never been sorry.
Escape
Mary Jo, 07/23/2005
2005 Ford Escape XLT Sport Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Fun car to drive. Very comfortable. Just the right size for me.
'05 Escape A+
Morano, 06/23/2005
2005 Ford Escape XLT Sport AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Outstanding inside and out. I've been looking at the Escape for over 2 yrs. When Ford released the XLT Sport AWD package it was my time. It was worth the wait! Also if you plan to purchase spend the extra money on the Mach Stereo and the moonroof. It makes your driving experience TOP NOTCH. All around great SUV. You can carry 5 passengers, your kayak, bike, and carry material for weekend projects. All around great SUV.
Great Vehicle
Brian Yee, 05/28/2005
2005 Ford Escape XLT Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought my Escape last December and it hasn't let me down yet. It's quick and comfortable like a car, like a quick car, and it still rides right over the bumps like an SUV. I can fit a lot in the rear area, including a few surf boards or my dogs crates. All of the seats in the back fold down and they are all comfortable. The front seat is fully adjustable and it feels really nicely put together, like a really stiff nice ride. The 6 CD changer is nice, but the speakers could be a little better. There are enough room for cups and CDs or whatever else. It looks great and it feels wonderful to drive, I really recommend going and driving an Escape for yourself.
The Best Small SUV
Rich, 01/29/2005
2005 Ford Escape Hybrid Fwd 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have been a die hard Japanese buyer since 1979. When the American car makers, especially Ford, design an SUV that not only looks as nice as the Japanese models, but also performs as well and has the fit and finish to match, you owe it to reward them for their effort and purchase this only Hybrid SUV at the moment.
Likable SUV
Good SUV, 09/20/2007
2005 Ford Escape Limited AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've never really been a Ford advocate, but I think they got it right with this vehicle. This thing does great loaded for 4 full size adults in the Rocky Mtns. As a matter of fact, it runs better in the mountains than my Mitsu Galant GTZ sports sedan. The vehicle clearance and stock tires are great for offroad. I've had this vehicle offroad several times with no issues, and the AWD works great in the deep mud and rocky trails. The Mach Stereo is surprisingly good. Overall, I would recommend this car to a friend or family member.
Affordable performance and room
John Engelmann, 02/17/2004
2005 Ford Escape XLS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Perfect size for single person or couple with two or less children. A lot of space for the price. Handles well and has sufficient power for the smooth shifting 5 speed manual transmission under the power of the 4 cyl engine. The 4 cyl engine in that vast engine compartment puts everything in easy accessible reach. All controls are straight-forward and well-located. Great fuel economy for a vehicle of that size. This car was enough to get me to reconsider my 14 years straight of VW purchases.