2009 Ford Escape

At a Glance

Pricing $20,100 - $31,635
Drive Types FWD, AWD
Engines 2.5l I4, 2.5l I4 HEV, 3.0l V6
Transmissions A6, CVT, M5
Fuel Economy 17-34 (city), 24-31 (highway)

The Ford Escape continues to be a success in the compact SUV segment. This SUV offers a combination of nimble handling, comfortable ride, and an optional 3.0L V-6 for decent performance. The standard 2.5L I-4 is available with a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic. Only the 6-speed automatic is available with the V-6. In 2005, Ford added a hybrid powertrain version. By alternately running off batteries and the gasoline engine, the Escape Hybrid boasts a 33 mpg rating in city driving. Although the Escape's AWD system is optimized for on-road traction, it is capable of light duty off-road excursions. Customers looking to optimize fuel economy can choose a FWD only version of any model.

What Changed:

The Escape benefits from a powertrain upgrade. A new 2.5L four-cylinder with variable cam timing adds 17-bhp. The 2.5L is ULEV II certified. The same 2.5L four-cylinder also serves as the basis for hybrid models. The 3.0L V6 receives a power bump to 230-bhp. A six-speed automatic is offered for the first time. Several changes including a revised lower front fascia and new tires improve aerodynamics and reduce rolling resistance, thus improving fuel efficiency. The Escape also switches to Ford's capless fuel-filling solution.

Model/Trim/Package Engine Original MSRP
Escape XLS 2.5l I4 (171-bhp) M5 FWD $20,100
Escape XLS 2.5l I4 (171-bhp) A6 FWD $21,310
Escape XLS 2.5l I4 (171-bhp) A6 AWD $23,060
Escape XLT 2.5l I4 (171-bhp) A6 FWD $23,115
Escape XLT 3.0l V6 (240-bhp) A6 FWD $24,125
Escape XLT 2.5l I4 (171-bhp) A6 AWD $24,865
Escape XLT 3.0l V6 (240-bhp) A6 AWD $25,875
Escape Limited 2.5l I4 (171-bhp) A6 FWD $24,580
Escape Limited 3.0l V6 (240-bhp) A6 FWD $25,580
Escape Limited 2.5l I4 (171-bhp) A6 AWD $26,330
Escape Limited 3.0l V6 (240-bhp) A6 AWD $27,330
Escape Hybrid 2.5l I4 HEV (153-bhp) CVT FWD $29,305
Escape Hybrid 2.5l I4 HEV (153-bhp) CVT AWD $31,635