Used 2008 Ford Escape Consumer Reviews
Great little SUV
I was looking for a smaller vehicle to replace my '96 Ford Windstar without giving up too much storage. The new Escape XLT fit the bill perfect. The new Escape looks tough and does a great job for what I need. I am getting about 25mpg and very pleased with the looks and performance so far. My wife who drives an Accord V6 coupe would not come near the minivan, now I can't keep her out of the Escape, which is OK, since her Honda is a sweet ride! The Escape 4cyl does just fine in this little truck, it won't set any land speed records, but it has no problem merging with traffic and cruising with the pack, while delivering over 24mpg. Overall we are very pleased with our Escape.
Solid and truck-like
I've never driven an older Escape, but I have heard wonderful things about them. I loved this the moment I sat in the driver's seat. I was concerned about the gas mileage on the V6 AWD, but it's not too horrible. I wonder why they still have this old 4 speed transmission? That is one of the few downfalls. I have all the goodies, including XM and sunroof, but the standard stereo is absolutely awful! I knew Ford's stereos were always poor, but they should realize that many people make a huge buying decision in the stereo. I went from a newer VDub, so maybe I am just being a snob on the stereo aspect.
- XLS 4dr SUVMSRP: $5,999261 mi away
- XLT 4dr SUVMSRP: N/A219 mi away
- Limited 4dr SUVMSRP: $6,995208 mi away
Scaring me
I bought my Escape in June of 2008. I drove to Daytona Beach, Florida from Mechanicsville, Virginia and was ecstatic. Drove beautifully and the radio (Sirius) was great until they (Sirius) changed the channel lineup. However, I have had the vehicle in the shop 3 or 4 times for a rattle in the back of the car. The dealer cannot find the problem and keeps giving it back to me and it keeps rattling. Other than that I am pleased with it. Does any body else have any rattles they cannot get rid of?
08 Escape Saved My Life
Too quick to know exactly what happened, but I wrapped my brand new Escape around an electric pole this week and am here to talk about it. '08 handled my 52 MPH head on like a champ! ROLL BAR: In tact. AIRBAGS: Deployed & deflated quickly. NOT TRAPPED: rear glass popped open giving me a quick escape route from the fire. WINDSHIELD: Didn't shatter. Just a little crack in the corner. INTERIOR: Still looked like new! Not even a little mark in the leather, Impact did not send the motor in to the body cavity (or my legs). ME? Didn't have jewelry on, I would not have had a mark on me! This was not only a pleasure to drive and look at, it was a damn good car! I will buy another.
One Hot SUV!
This was an anniversary gift for my wife and she can be picky. She is in love with this little SUV. The leather interior is up there with the best I've seen in Audi or Volvo. The power is up there with the V8 in my Grand Marquis. Glass moonroof is awesome. Sound system is incredible. I'm not trying to exaggerate the review but this has been the best car we have ever purchased and I have owned 15 or so.
Very Happy with Escape Purchase
I was looking for a small SUV that had a decent amt of cargo capacity, excellent safety features, good reliability, 4wd,leather, satellite radio, moonroof, and of course I had to like the comfort, looks and performance. I also wanted one made in USA, but didn't want to pay more than 25K. I have found all of that and more in my 2008 Escape! Also pleased with gas mileage-20mpg combined. Very satisfied with my purchase, and would definitely choose it again.
08 Escape awd 4cy
I've had my Escape a few weeks now, love it, drove everything (rogue, outlander,outback,compass etc.), happy with my choice. I'm getting about 24 mpg on hilly terrain, no hwy, with the AWD that I can't live without where I am. Replaced an Outback, this little suv is perfect. I love the camel interior, much nicer than the stone. The 4cy. is pretty nice after you get used to the tranny, it shifts funny until you develop a nack of driving it. There isn't a need for the 6cy. Never thought I'd go back to a Ford but my husband's new Ford diesel is so nice that it made me take a look at the Escape, very glad I did. It is suprisingly roomy inside and the whole interior layout is very nice.
2008 Ford Escape - Excellent Value
It is with pleasure that I drive an SUV that is fuel efficient. I drove for 12 hours in one day and did not feel uncomfortable at all as the interior seats provide good support for my back and there is plenty of leg room in this vehicle. The Sirius satellite radio is very enjoyable. The size of the moonroof that Ford is using is excellent and makes a driver feel that they can actually enjoy having a vehicle with a moonroof. The Escape is excellent value for the dollar on both the vehicle's price, equipment, and the fuel economy a driver will get.
Escape
I am overall extremely impressed with this vehicle. I purchased it with every available option from ford and am not dissappointed at all. The GPS is amazing totally recommend, Easier to use than Mercedes'non-touch interface. I have driven nearly 3500 miles and average around 20 MPG with the 6 Cyl. The only gripe that i have is with the Cruise control, it average at least 2 Mpg less when it is on and varies greatly in speed up to 5-10 miles per hour. Other than that i love my espcape and personally believe that if Ford keeps up with producing vehicles to this build quality and overall solid feel, while still appeasing to luxury tastes they will be fine.
After 6 months still pleased
I bought my 2008 Ford Escape in Feb of this year. I traded in an 2001 2 door Chevy Cavalier for my Escape. At first I was a little hesitant about purchasing a larger vehicle, but I must say after 6 months of drving my Escape, I love it more and more every day. On average I am getting 23.9 milles a gallon(not highway)Highway mileage is around 26 mpg. I have the light sage and it's just such a cute car to drive. It's roomy without being overwhelming, and it handles great.
Extreme commute in comfort
I have owned this Escape for about six months and have put 19500 miles on it already. My commute is 120+ miles a day and I feel like it is five. There is no vibration, road noise is minimal and I can see without blind spots even with teenagers in the backseat. I am a 5'9" woman and have no difficulty with seat positioning or steering and love the fact that it turns on a dime. Turns so smooth- Just like my old 76 Bronco from high school. Also have a toddler and the carseat latch features are so easy. Plenty of 'kick' room for her legs too. Perfect height for placement of little ones, she can see out and I have no more back aches from the bend and stretch of buckling her.
Small ute with a big attitude
So far we put over 6K miles on our 08' Escape. We absolutely love it! It has been the perfect replacement to our aged gas loving Astro van. Geting the EPA rated MPG. For a I4 FWD we have taken it to some bad roads and some mud and it handles it with no problem. It makes you fell like your in a Explorer. It's on the slow side with the I4. We clocked it a around 10-11.5 seconds to 60. We only had one problem. A weld in the gas tank. (baffle) broke and was causing an quite squeak. The dealer replaced it under warranty and gave us a free oil change in less then 5 hours! This car turned a GM family in to Ford buyers for life if we continue to be pleased.
A mini Navigator
We needed a vehilce with some soft roading ability, better ground clearance, and all wheel drive. I did not expect such a high level of options, fit and finish and feel. The Escape is very comfortable and quiet, and feels like much more vehicle than it really is, that is until you need to park, then it shows its size by making parking very easy. I am averaging 25 mpg. and getting 30 mpg on the highway, and thats with only 700 miles on it. I can see why Ford has sold one million of these cars, and with the new improvements, should sell many more.
Buy one
I have not owned this vehicle very long but, so far, it is the best SUV I have owned. I live in Minnesota and snow is a big thing. This little baby just scoots through the snow. I even tested it against a Jeep in the snow, and it out performed it like nothing. Ride is a little rough but fun to drive.
You gotta love it !
I bought my 2008 Escape XLT 3 weeks ago and am impressed. I traded in my 2006 Fusion and could not be happier. The ride is like a sedan, fit and finish is great, and the new look exterior says class. The satellite radio is way too much fun. The interior could use more padding, but looks good. I have averaged 24 MPG for city driving and this alone is impressive. I can't wait everyday to hop in and drive. I have owned 20 cars in my life, 16 new cars, and this Escape ranks at the top. Thanks Ford!
Different
Turned in 05 Focus 4dr hatch w/12000 miles. Would have gotten another but Ford discontinued hatch. Need a vehicle to lug around all sorts of stuff (Home Depot) etc. The Escape XLT 4cyl auto. was all that was left for my budget. Stayed with Ford for great discount. Car is different. The 4cyl auto is not as snappy as the Focus but adequate. Like the driving height but miss the telescoping wheel. Electric power steering is great as is the handling. It has a very solid feel when driving. Seats a bit hard but may improve with use. 4 speed auto should be 5 and is not as smooth shifting as the Focus. Cruise control fine. Interior satisfactory.
Good Small SUV
I purchased an 2008 Escape because I need something with a little more and still got good gas mileage and I found it. My mom has an 06 and I liked that it wasn't so big and seemed fairly easy to drive. I am a woman I don't need some massvie thing and it is my first SUV. It took $25 to fill it up last week and when gas prices were higher I only paid $40 to fill it up. I have had no problems. Very happy with my purchase.
2nd Time Around
This is my second Escape, the first being a 2002 Ltd. I returned my Volvo XC90 at the end of its Lease. Decided to do some economizing. Get away from premium gas and buy something with better mpg. The improvements/features over my 2002 are substantial. Most things have been improved greatly, some things fall under "if it ain't broke why did you try to fix it...but made it worse?" Parking brake release and twist locks on roof rake. Though, 5-6 speed trans would be nice. The 4 speed shifts very smooth compared to the 6 speed in my Volvo. But, with all that I am enjoying the truck!
2008 Escape XLT V-6
I traded my 01 Ford Ranger 4x4 for my Escape, and love my Escape. I use it for commuting, and pleasure - mileage on highway is about 24-25. In town it drops to 18-19. The V-6 is adequate for power. Handling is what sets this vehicle above others I tested. AWD is excellent - no problem with snow, ice, sleet. Inside is comfortable, and good visibility. We take it more than our Lexus for around town.
Escape to more!
I recently traded in my 2005 Ford Escape for a 2008 Ford Escape. I went over that vehicle with a fine tooth comb. Then I did it again. I drove the Vue Red Line, Cx7, CRV, Element and an X3. The Ford won hands down! This vehicle was made for me. I got the Satellite Radio, Monnroof, Convenience Package, Sport Wheels and too many other options to list. I have had complete strangers come up to me and ask to take a look because they havent seen one and want to take a peek. Its amazing! I have had it for 3 weeks and already have 1600 miles on it. It's just FUN to drive! Ford has done an amazing job on this redesign! This is my 4th Ford. I wont even look at a Chevy!
FALLING APART
I purchased this car with 14000 miles on it. It had been a dealer demo. Great fun car to drive, cruises right along but.... now at 29000 miles the power steering pump is going out, the upholstery looks like kids have been in having a picnic ( I have no children) in the car, paint on the rear bumper is spidering, and there are ignition problems, I was told the tumblers were bad. Fading dome light works intermittently, won't come out of park, ignition won't accept the key almost leaving you stranded. Rubber seals on the doors fall off in the winter. Now the back window on the hatch has decided to open a random. The back seat won't stay latched so you can't have rear seat passengers safely. yuk
Good Ride
I traded in my 2006 Ford Escape for the 2008 Ford Escape, need I say more? Awesome vehicle. New body style, gas mileage, chrome, interior/exterior design, etc.
Bad Tranny Coolers in '08 Escapes
I just had my Escape repaired yesterday for Bad Tranny Cooler from the dealer that I purchased it from. No questions asked, they fixed at no cost stating it was under warranty. No complains on this end.
Fun car with a lot of problems
Bought this car in July '08. Replaced an '06 Ford Escape. Have had nothing but problems. I love the car design, comfort, features. So far I have had it in the shop 4 times, in 4 months! Starting with a steering problem. The left boot shaft keeps slipping. Ford has informed me that they have 'no fix' and to just keep bringing it back in. replaced shocks, struts, set toe, recalibrated steering wheel, caster camber,alingment etc. all within 3,000 miles. Now at 8,000 miles, I have taken it in for a right front half shaft leak, cv boot, which leaked on and blew the engine sensor. Replaced the engine sensor, oxygen sensor, instrument panel. Now the steering is sloppy again and taking it back again!
Perfect for people who don't race
The interior is very slick with good utilities. Smooth ride. It is a family car with higher importance to safety rather than speed. Not to be used for street light racing. Fuel economy - 25 MPG which is not very good as compared to foreign models. Price - compitative to most foreign cars and almost $5,000 less than a CR-V
About time
Have had pickups and large suvs past 20 years. Finally gave up f150. This Escape is so fun to drive, comfortable and quiet cpmpared to CR-V and Rav4, loaded and only cost 21000, v6 and 4wd. So far 22 mpg, better if cruise not used. Interior finish is neat, and exterior is sharp and finish is superb. We like this so much we are thinking of trading wife's Expedition for another.
Nice change
I've had my Escape almost 4 weeks, and have put on 2400 miles already. The ride is comfortable with lots of room for passengers. Gas mileage not too bad for a 6 cyl., I'm averaging 21.4 mpg and that is mostly highway driving. Traded my 2005 Outback, miss the heated seats, heated mirrors, and lumbar support.
Ford can't get my parts for 3 months!
2008 Ford Escape On 10/5/09 I took my leased Ford Escape to the dealership for repair. The truck would not shift and I was told that the catalytic converter is the culprit. On 10/22/09, after a delay of seventeen (17) days, I was told that the parts needed to fix my truck will not be available from Ford until the end of 2009 at the earliest. I have spoken to Ford India. I keep playing phone tag with the Ford Philadelphia Area Rep...no parts!!! I can't speak to anyone else and they expect you to pay Ford Credit for your loaded Escape while you live in a rental car not worth half the payment FOR 3 MONTHS MINIMUM. I am very dissatisfied and personally crushed that Ford has treated a very
Not too bad
I've been pretty happy so far with my purchase, it's loaded with everything, it handles great on icy and snowy roads, stereo is OK, could be lots better, comfort isn't too bad, seats could be softer, I did have problems with a exhaust sensor, and the roof rack always rattling, got that fixed great small SUV
Manual Transmission Rocks!
After a week and a half I'm very impressed. If Mazda had had the right colors I would have had a Tribute because I really enjoyed my 05 Lapis Lasuli blue one - but a tree fell on it while I was driving. So the Escape's exterior color and other features were attractive. It has more room than some compact SUVs. The 5 speed manual really makes it perk up performance wise and I think the combination of 4cyl and manual will save me a little gas money. I just feel more in control of the car with manual. I'm waiting to see if the standard tires Continental Crosstrac wear out as fast as they did on my Tribute - 30,000 miles even with servicing.
Never had a problem
Most of my driving is around a small town or long road trips. In either situation I have been pleased. The back seat is comfortable for passengers. The vehicle drives very nicely. I purchased my Escape as a brand new vehicle. I have 20,0000 miles and everything is like new. This vehicle performs beyond my expectations.
My 2 year wait was worth it
I started noticing Ford Escapes in traffic a couple of years ago, and liked what I saw. I was only 3 years into owning my Hyundai at that ime so I thought, in a couple of years when I am looking to buy a new car, I need to test drive an Escape. Time passed, and I read up on all the small SUV's in my price range out there. I noticed how entusiastic almost all 2008 Escape owners were, so that was my first and only test drive. Upon climbing in I immediately noticed how high the vehicle sets without feeling "top heavy". All the dash controls were laid out very ergonomically while also looking modern, stylish, and upscale. Driving it was as easy and fun as I had thought it would be.
So far, I'm pleased
I bought my 2008 xlt used with 11k miles. After almost a year of ownership, I'm happy with the overall performance. Nice and roomy with good visibility. Handling is smooth. Could perform better in snow--don't think the OEM continentals are so great. Had several warranty issues (leaking transmission fluid, defective CD player, stained seats) and they were all taken care of efficiently by the local ford dealership.
A comfortable, peppy, fun-to-drive car
After having driven sporty cars (last car a Mustang) for most of my life and having read your review I was expecting something much more pedestrian than the Escape turned out to be. It was comfortable from the get-go, handles very well and accelerates smartly. It is not choppy riding (try comparing it to a Focus SVT). Friends have commented on how smooth the ride is and how comfortable the car is. The power steering is well-balanced but could do with a bit less assist. I do not find any problem with the braking nor with gentle acceleration. Fuel economy is decent--not horrible but not super. In my case I use a gallon more fuel per week than I used to with my Mustang.
Tails its Class
Bought this as my second Ford in 2007. Overall it leaves me with mixed reactions, the good: fuel economy in the low 20s (good for AWD), truck like front end, reasonably comfortable front seats. The bad: noisy engine, poor acceleration and passing power (better than what I expected from an I- 4, though), choppy 4 speed, electric power steering, and low grade, Saturn- like interior... lots of cheap plastic, horrible seat fabric thats's worn out after two years, disappointing fit and finish (especially the door panels), and goofy cell-phone button HVAC controls that are hard to use while driving. Bottom line...I'll easily buy another Ford but no more Ford SUVs!!! Next time I'll get an F-150.
It doesn't stand for fix or repair daily
I thought I would never go back to American made cars again. I had a 2001 CRV until the trans died a few months ago. The Escape is rugged looking, sits higher, has a very smooth ride and fun to drive. It has a lot of interior room. Lots of head room and a quiet ride. Love the crome grill and the the keyless doors and back latch. Just gettting 18 MPG in city so far. Also brakes are a bit soft. Hope that will improve. Really enjoying the car.
Very Unhappy!!
We purchased this vehicle and loved it until all the trouble lights started coming on after you started it and lost all power including steering,odo,etc.4x now it has been in shop ranging from battery to computer. Most unhappy, never be buying Ford again!
Staying with a winner
This is our second Escape, got hooked on the interior roominess (at 6'4" its a primary concern). Love the handleability of FWD in the ice and snow while still getting a smooth ride on dry roads. One complaint, the cruise control creeps up in hilly interstate driving. Both of our Escapes can gain 3 to 5 mph when going up hill and then it stays there after cresting. Overall it's a great auto.
Lovin' Every Minute Of It
I'm loving the ride. It's very smooth on gravel roads. Its trail capability is very good. I have no complaints about the mileage. Approximately 580km/tank city driving, that all depends on your driving habits. Just love driving it
I Love My Escape
I bought this Escape after owning an Explorer for many years & I love it. I did a lot of research on this vehicle and came to the conclusion that this was my Explorer but smaller & hoping that it had better gas mileage. No real problems to report as yet, except the rear brakes screech when backing up, the dealer says this is normal? I work for an auto shop & my boss would shoot us if we told a customer that! (the neighbor has a 2008 Escape too & his rear brakes do the same thing)I have a 100k warranty & still have the 36k warranty.Overall a great deal. It drives smooth, pick up could be a little better, but it is comfortable and drives very nice.
Not bad for a 4 cylinder
I bought this car because I was moving upstate. It has been extremely reliable and has handled the 140 miles per day with ease. It has been great in the snow & the rain and I would recommend it to anyone looking for an economical SUV. The engine does have something to be desired when it comes to power but I knew that I had to comprimise on that if I was going for a 4 cylinder - great on gas. So far it has 69,000 miles and I have replaced 1 tire, 1 brake job, and a small transmission coolant leak ($180 to repair)..So feel free to buy it. I planning to give it to my son when he graduates college in 2 years..That is how confident I am in its reliabilty.
Worth The Purchase. Love It!
I recently purchased a Ford Escape. I wasnt looking to buy at the time but we needed a bigger car since we wanted to expand our family. I test drove it the first day and fell in love with it. I loved that I sat higher and felt safe having my child in the car with me as well it was silent and handled great. Didn't even know the engine was on half the time. I owned a Dodge Neon SXT and it was cramped and small and at times and it wasn't big enough for the two of us so had to upgrade. I have owned 3 Dodges, 1 Ford, and 1 Chevy. Needless to say I am very impressed. I dont know what I get gas mileage wise yet. I only have 1100 on it but I'm looking forward to seeing what it gets!
2008 Certfied Used Escape
I bought mine 2 months ago as a daily driver so my Mustang can stay in the garage. The second day I had it, the Chicago winter turned extreme for the next 6 weeks. Ice storms, snow falls averaging 3-5" 3 days a week, -40 degree wind chill and this little SUV was a pleasure to drive. This car is outdoors and it started with no problem when we dropped way below zero and the 2WD handled the snow. I was worried buying a used car with 20K on it and no history, but the car is made well and I had no problems. I love my little Escape. I would not have made it to work on many of those days in my Mustang.
Not a winter SUV!!
I owned an Explorer before,and wanted to down size. Big mistake!This Escape is worthless in the snow. Living in IA we can expect anything from Mother Nature. I did not purchase the 4x4 trying to save some money,but you NEED it for winter driving. When you come to a stop you can barely get the thing going,it has NO traction!I will be trading this thing in this summer for an Explorer,it will NOT be in my garage next winter. Also the carmel interior was a wrong choice.It picks up every stain you can think of.The material is cheap and when you try to clean it yourself you end up with a bigger stain when it dries!Folding of the rear seats require you to remove the head rest not practical. Avg MPG 18
A nice all around vehicle. 6cyl 2WD
I have had this vehicle for almost 3 years now. Note this is the 2WD XLT with 6 cyl. My lease is up in May. Overall the vehicle is a nice equipped ride. Gas mileage as been decent. I have traveled to canada 2X and averaged 26 to 27 mpg at 75mph plus the truck loaded down with fishing gear. Back and forth to work I avg 24 in the summer and 21 om the winter. This is combined HWY and city driving (35 mile commute). Ride noise is a little high but the std tires are not the greatest. I did have to replace a brake sensor ($200 plus) at 30K. Overall I am happy with the vehicle.
Great small SUV
We do a lot of landscaping around the house so we purchased this SUV primarily to provide us a way to move larger materials around that wouldn't fit in a regular car. For that task it's a great vehicle, the fold down seats in the back (though a multi-step process) provide a lot of space that allows storage/transport of most anything. We were so impressed with the quality of the Limited package we've also used the car as our primary vehicle to drive to and from work. We've leased this vehicle, and I suspect we'll keep with the Escape next year when the lease is up. Initially we favored the fuel economy of the 4-cylinder, but after test driving both I was sold on the V6's extra power.
Totally dismayed at quality of product
46000 miles, trans. coolant assembly had to be replaced, leaking badly. Water leaves stains on interior upholstery. Horrible squalling wind noise from right front windshield area. Unable to be fixed by dealership without foam insulation & duct tape. Yep, have to keep duct tape on windshield, started a couple months after purchase. Mult. failures of instrument panel,goes dead. After being very cold for 3 days outside & weather warmed up, battery went dead. RSA jumped it, instrument panel was out again-no heat, blower, stereo, read outs-until SUV warmed up 40 mins after driving it. Then heater blew snow. It always has electrical issues after cold down to 20-30 below & then warms up & i'm down.
Loving the new Escape!
I just purchased my new 2008 XLT Escape last week and am loving it! The newer body style is what peaked my interest at first-not a huge fan of the older looks. I decided on a nicely loaded Escape over a standard Edge. I am very happy. The interior is different from what I've had in the past, but took no time to get used to. I love the satellite. Very room and clean interior. Sunroof is nice and big. So far the FWD with traction has done well in some higher snow for me. The drive feels great and so far gas mileage is good. I love the convenience package features as well. I got the Kiwi Green color and absolutely love it, everyone notices and likes it. I am very happy with my Escape
My 2nd Escape!
The 2008 is just great to handle and drive and the recent model update (outside looks) is awesome. The size is perfect and the leather seats that are available with the limited have made it really easy to keep clean with my big ol' dogs I haul around.
Great car, should have bought it sooner
I have been debating for some time now on trading my 2003 G35 coupe and 1997 Chevy S-10 in. We wanted to consolodate vehicles. So, my wife suggested we start looking around. It was hard parting from my G35, and I was not sure that the Escape would be a good replacement (as flashy or fun). The vehicle that we purchased was a 2008 Limited 4WD that was pratically loaded. My wife sat in the front seat and was love at first site. Once I started driving it around town I fell in love as well and forgot all about my G.......(what).