What's New for the 2018 Ford Escape?

This year, Ford is breaking out the big guns with a brand new trim model, the SEL. The Escape SEL comes highly recommended, offering buyers a great rate on a luxurious crossover. In the Escape hierarchy, this model slots between the mid-range SE and the top-of-the-line Titanium. It delivers upscale features, like leather upholstery and the savvy Sync 3 infotainment upgrade, without forcing you to spend more money on the top trim model. The SEL is also notable for its powertrain, which blends smooth power with the line's thriftiest EPA ratings, earning up to 26 mpg combined.

Iconic Trims & Impactful Features

Choose from four trim models: the base S, mid-grade SE, upscale SEL, and fully-loaded Titanium. In the base S model, you'll save the most money up front, but you'll never feel like you're missing out on anything, thanks to the cabin's high-quality materials and roomy, comfortable seating. In terms of features, you'll find Bluetooth for hands-free calling and the Sync tech interface with AppLink smartphone integration to keep you connected on the go. In the SEL, both driver and passenger enjoy increasing comfort with upgraded cloth upholstery, heated front seats, and a rear center armrest. If you're after modern luxury at a great price, check out the brand new SEL model, which supplies goods like leather upholstery and a power liftgate at an excellent rate. The fully stacked Escape Titanium includes all of the SE luxury features, adding modern flourishes like ambient interior lighting and a premium 10-speaker Sony sound system. The Titanium does more than impress your neighbors - it introduces you to a luxury-car vibe without the luxury-car price.

Strong Performance

The new Escape's punchy powertrain options will even have you looking forward to your drive to work. Choose from three engines for the level of power and fuel economy that works for you. In the base Escape S model, you'll find a thrifty 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine rated for 168 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. If you're willing to spend a little more on the S or SEL models, and you'll increase both speed and fuel economy. These crossovers utilize a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that kicks things up a notch with 179 horses and 177 pound-feet of torque. It's EPA-rated for up to 23 city/30 highway mpg, saving you the most on fuel costs. But, if it's all-out power you're after, look nowhere else but the Escape Titanium. This top-trim crossover is more than luxurious - its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivers high-end performance with 245 horses and 275 pound-feet of torque.

Intelligent Safety Features

Safety is a major priority for the new Escape. In government crash tests, this crossover earned a perfect five-star rating for overall protection. If you live in a snowy or wet climate, you can add all-wheel drive to any model. All-wheel drive enhances traction in bad weather, thereby keeping you in firmer control of your ride. The Escape also offers a range of tech features designed to help you spot danger. A rearview camera is standard equipment, giving you a premium view of any stray skateboards or grocery carts left in your path. When you add the Safe and Smart package, you'll enjoy the added benefit of driver aids like forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring, which alert you to dangers you might otherwise miss, giving you time to avoid or mitigate damages