2010 Ford Escape Review
2010 Ford Escape Review





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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Innovative high-tech features, impressive crash scores, peppy performance.
Cons
- Feels old compared to rivals, poor braking performance, non-reclining rear seat is difficult to fold.
What’s new
The 2010 Ford Escape gains a new driver-side mirror that's said to improve the driver's ability to check the vehicle's blind spot. There are also a few optional features for 2010, including a rearview camera, an automatic parallel-parking "Auto Park" feature and MyKey, which allows parents to limit speed and audio volume for their teen drivers. Heated seats are also now standard on the Limited.
Edmunds says
A slew of innovative high-tech features make the 2010 Ford Escape a tempting choice in the compact crossover category. But this model is showing its advanced age and most competitors are ultimately more appealing.
Vehicle overview
Remember the year 2000? Back when we were all a-flutter about hanging chads and surviving the Y2K computer bug? That year also saw the arrival of the Ford Escape, the first compact crossover SUV from an American car company, which quickly became a runaway best-seller. Although its engines, steering, styling and interior are considerably different than they were at the turn of the century, the 2010 Ford Escape still has a lot of similarity to the vehicle that launched when Bill Clinton was a lame duck. Not surprisingly, the Escape is beginning to feel its age.
It's most apparent on the inside, where the Escape lacks a few basic features now common among its newer competitors, such as a telescoping steering wheel and a backseat that reclines and slides fore and aft. As such, the Escape just isn't as comfortable or versatile as more modern rivals. Even more damning, though, are brakes (discs in front but antiquated drums in the rear) that simply don't have the power to bring the Escape to a stop as effectively as other small SUVs.
However, there are a number of high-tech goodies stashed inside this aging wrapper that make the Escape still worth a look. Ford's Sync system is certainly a deal-making technology, seamlessly integrating your cell phone and iPod/MP3 player into the car's control systems. When equipped with the optional navigation system (the same one found in all Ford's products), the Escape provides real-time information for traffic, weather, sport scores, movie times and probably your horoscope if you ask nicely enough.
New for 2010 is MyKey, which allows parents to set electronic limits for vehicle speed and stereo volume for their teenage driver. Think of it as an automotive V-chip (speaking of 2000-era relics). Even more notable is Auto Park. Taking a page out of the Lexus playbook, it gives the car control over its steering during parallel-parking maneuvers. We've tested it and found the Escape's system works notably better than the one found in the exponentially more expensive Lexus LS 460.
In total, a fully loaded 2010 Ford Escape will certainly please those who value having the latest technology, so it may be worthy of consideration. However, so are other top small crossover SUVs like the Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V, Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4. Driving them all back-to-back, you might find yourself thinking the Escape, despite its techno veneer, is just a tad too dated for your tastes.
Performance & mpg
All trim levels of the Ford Escape can be had with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. A 171-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is standard, with a 240-hp 3.0-liter V6 optional on all but the XLS. The 2.5 can be fitted with either a five-speed manual transmission (XLS only) or a six-speed automatic. The V6 comes only with the automatic transmission. Properly equipped, the V6 Escape can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
Fuel economy with the four-cylinder, six-speed auto and front-wheel drive is 20 mpg city/28 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined. All-wheel drive drops that to 19/25/21 mpg. The front-wheel-drive six-cylinder Escape returns an estimated 18/26/21, while all-wheel drive gets 17/24/20.
Safety
Antilock brakes (albeit with rear drums), traction control, stability control, front-seat side airbags and full-length head curtain airbags are all standard on the 2010 Ford Escape. In government tests, the Escape earned a perfect five stars in front and side crash tests. The Escape did equally well in Insurance Institute for Highway Safety testing, scoring the highest rating of "Good" in the frontal-offset and side tests.
Unfortunately, the Escape is hampered by poor braking performance. From 60 mph, the last Escape we tested stopped in a disappointing 154 feet.
Driving
While pleasant to drive, the 2010 Ford Escape lacks the mechanical polish and sophistication of newer models from Chevrolet, Honda, Subaru and Toyota. Among compact crossovers, the Escape feels the most trucklike. Nevertheless, the electric power steering makes parking and low-speed maneuvers easy, and the suspension has been tweaked to be smoother over rough pavement. Acceleration from both engines is adequate, though the V6 isn't as energetic as the more powerful mills in the Equinox and RAV4.
Interior
The Escape's cabin was given a welcome complete overhaul a few years ago, granting it nicer materials and a more attractive design. The center stack consists of neatly grouped buttons that are designed to work specifically with Ford's Sync system. This electronics interface connects with your cell phone and MP3 player, allowing you to control them through voice commands.
In terms of comfort and space, though, the Escape is starting to feel its age. Up front, the seating position is too tall, which gives the driver the feeling of hovering above the controls, and there's no telescoping steering wheel. The backseat is flat and devoid of recline or fore/aft adjustments. Cargo space stands at 29 cubic feet behind the second row and 66 cubes with the second row folded down. Folding it can be tricky, though, as the headrests must be removed and the bottom cushions tipped forward before the seatbacks can be flipped down.
2010 Ford Escape models
The 2010 Ford Escape is a compact SUV that seats five people. It is available in XLS, XLT and Limited trim levels. A Hybrid model is addressed via a separate review.
Standard equipment on the XLS includes 16-inch alloy wheels, an integrated blind spot driver mirror, keyless entry, full power accessories, cruise control, air-conditioning and a four-speaker stereo with a CD player and auxiliary audio jack. The Sync electronics interface (includes iPod interface and Bluetooth) and steering wheel audio controls are optional. The XLT adds automatic headlights, foglamps, MyKey parental controls, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a six-way power driver seat, steering wheel audio controls and satellite radio. The Leather package adds ambient lighting and leather upholstery. The Sun & Sync package adds Sync and a sunroof. The Sport Appearance package adds 17-inch wheels and a variety of upgraded interior and exterior trim pieces. A seven-speaker stereo upgrade is also available.
To the XLT's feature list, the Escape Limited adds different 16-inch wheels, chrome exterior highlights, leather upholstery, heated front seats, Sync and a six-speaker stereo. Upgrading to the Limited Luxury package adds dual-zone automatic climate control, rear parking sensors and a rearview camera. The Moon and Tune package adds a sunroof and the seven-speaker stereo upgrade. Stand-alone options on the Limited include Auto Park and a navigation system, which includes the upgraded stereo, digital music storage and Sirius Travel Link (includes real-time traffic, weather and other information).

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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2010 Ford Escape.
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
Great value for the money!
Unknown,04/07/2016
XLT 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
I just recently bought a 2010 Ford Escape with 79k miles and the V6 engine. So far, I am very impressed! I just had some maintenance done to it to make sure everything is sound; this included transmission flush and oil change. Everything looked good according to the dealer. I have read a lot of negative reviews, but I would advise to buy one with some miles. That way, all of flaws would … be worked out. So far, excellent car!
5 out of 5 stars
I love my 2nd gen escape
Brian,05/27/2016
XLT 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
It's my favorite car I've ever owned. 7 years and 150000 miles in it still looks and runs great. (Shame on Ford for making the 3rd Gen a bloated teeny bopper hatch back instead of a proper suv like this one.)
5 out of 5 stars
170,000 miles and Still Going Strong
FloridaGatorFan,03/04/2018
XLT 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
I have to honestly say this is the most reliable, solid car/suv I have ever owned and I have owned a Honda and Toyota previously and a 2000 Ford Taurus that reached 210,000 miles before I decided to get an SUV. I stuck with Ford and I'm glad I did. I haven't had too many recalls on it(I think 4) and got them taken care of no problem as of now it also doesn't have the takata airbag recall … either. I have taken care of it but really haven't had to do a lot of repairs beside replacing tires, oil changes and replacing brakes a couple of window regulators had to be replaced but I've had it 8 years and an ac compressor and water pump last year thats it. I took it on a long road trip last year with no problems it is actually very comfortable for long drives(I have the Leather and its Just Right for me) What I especially love about it is the Big Windows and Blind Spot I feel very safe in it as the Visibility is Very Good and my Fave feature the Pop Up Rear Window great for popping open and grabbing a beach chair or groceries quickly. I Love my Ford Escape and I will drive it until the wheels fall off and I have never felt like that towards any of my previous cars. It gets good gas mileage I have the V6 engine with 230hp lots of get up and go but still average 26mpg I read somewhere that the 2010 hybrids are known to be high mileage cars(300k) and I am hoping that will crossover somewhat to mine time will tell but I read about brand new cars with all kinds of issues and I'm holding onto mine for awhile!!
3.5 out of 5 stars
Throttle body
gofish5998,08/16/2012
XLT 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
Two weeks ago my wife bought an 2010 Escape with 39000 miles. The sensor on the throttle body went bad & left my wife setting along the road. The guy at the Ford garage said he had replaced five of them in the last two weeks & there probably won't be a recall. None of the Escapes had over 44,000 miles on them. Lucky she bought it from a local car lot & he took care of it.
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover3 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Side Impact TestGood
- Roof Strength TestMarginal
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
- IIHS Small Overlap Front TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front TestGood
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More about the 2010 Ford Escape
Used 2010 Ford Escape Overview
The Used 2010 Ford Escape is offered in the following submodels: Escape SUV. Available styles include XLT 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A), XLT 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A), Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A), Limited 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A), XLS 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A), and XLS 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 5M). Pre-owned Ford Escape models are available with a 2.5 L-liter gas engine, with output up to 171 hp, depending on engine type. The Used 2010 Ford Escape comes with all wheel drive, and front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed automatic. The Used 2010 Ford Escape comes with a 3 yr./ 36000 mi. basic warranty, a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. roadside warranty, and a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. powertrain warranty.
What's a good price on a Used 2010 Ford Escape?
Price comparisons for Used 2010 Ford Escape trim styles:
- The Used 2010 Ford Escape XLT is priced between $12,990 and$14,990 with odometer readings between 54088 and97578 miles.
- The Used 2010 Ford Escape Limited is priced between $11,000 and$17,998 with odometer readings between 35360 and113115 miles.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on used cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which used 2010 Ford Escapes are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2010 Ford Escape for sale near. There are currently 7 used and CPO 2010 Escapes listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $11,000 and mileage as low as 35360 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a used car from our massive database to find cheap prew-owned vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the Used 2010 Ford Escape.
Can't find a used 2010 Ford Escapes you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
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Should I lease or buy a 2010 Ford Escape?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Ford lease specials
Check out Ford Escape lease specials
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