2020 Ford Escape meets challenge of snowy New England roads
Ford’s slogan for many years — “Go Further” — is a perfect match for its 2020 Ford Escape. As everyone else is slipping and sliding off the unplowed roads of New England, the redesigned Escape mows through slushy, snowy and icy terrain smoothly and without worry.
The Star White Metallic TriCoat exterior on the one we drove highlighted the grand new curve-lines and futuristic curb appeal that every driver and passer-by will enjoy. The Titanium all-wheel-drive package offers great features including its eight-inch SYNC infotainment system; it’s more than easy to use via its touchscreen. The Escape, assembled in Louisville, Ky., is a flawless compact crossover.
The phenomenal 2.0L EcoBoost inline four-cylinder engine is great in every way. From fuel economy to power to limited cabin noise, the EcoBoost is really a perfectly well-oiled machine. The eight-speed automatic transmission adopts the “dial” style shifter to move from park to drive to reverse, which might take some getting used to. Plus, paddle shifters, which let you move the automatic transmission up or down a gear, are standard. The 250 horsepower and 275 lb.-ft. of torque is just enough in the doit-all Escape, accepting regular fuel and a 15.8-gallon tank: long lasting and easy on the wallet, hitting 28.4 mpg on our 450-mile test.
New to the 2020 Ford Escape is a lengthened wheelbase and a larger overall vehicle width, providing more space for passengers and cargo. Passengers in any seat aboard the Escape had nothing but great things to say about the ride, legroom and sufficient comfort for the compact crossover.
The fun-to-drive Escape has a stiffer chassis than its prior-generation model, active grille-shutters and a flip-up heads-up display are available, as with many vehicles in this segment, like our recently tested Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross and Kia Soul.
Friends of mine have owned and operated a Ford dealership in Central Florida for many years, and always tell of their impressive models and favorites. I now understand why they have been so successful — Ford has really delivered for the consumer on the 2020 Escape.