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2004 Ford Escape Full Review
Date Published: 11/23/08
Also in the 2004 Ford Escape Review:
2004 Ford Escape Review
Ford's smallest SUV gets only minor equipment shuffling for 2004 in anticipation of a redesign for '05. Escape is a 4-dr wagon that has a rear liftgate with separate-opening glass. It's offered with a 4-cyl engine and manual transmission or a V6 and automatic. Escape is available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive without low-range gearing. A dashboard switch on AWD models locks in a 50/50 front/rear torque split. ABS and front side airbags are available. Available on top-line Limited models are heated front seats and door mirrors, and rear-obstacle detection. Offered on midline XLTs is Ford's No Boundaries roof rack that slides rearward to ease loading. Mazda's Tribute is a slightly retrimmed Escape.
News
Ford's compact SUV starts 2005 in early '04 with updated styling, revised powerteams, standard instead of optional ABS, and claimed structural upgrades for improved impact safety. The base 4-cyl engine in entry-level XLS models goes from a 127-hp 2.0-liter to a 153-hp 2.3 that's offered with automatic transmission as well as manual.
Expected in fall 2004 is the long-delayed Escape Hybrid. Full details aren't yet available, but it reportedly uses a 65kW electric motor and a 28kW generator to assist a modified 4-cyl engine, mainly for full-throttle acceleration. The engine will automatically shut off when coasting or stopped to save fuel, and a regenerative braking feature turns the motor into a generator for keeping the batteries juiced, so no external charging is needed. Ford promises the performance and towing capability of a regular V6 Escape with compact-car fuel economy. In fact, an Escape Hybrid recently logged 38 mpg on a 37-hour run, going 576 miles on a single tank of gas--in congested Manhattan traffic, no less. We should be getting more specifics soon, including an idea about pricing, so keep checking back with us. Further out, sources currently see no basic design change for Escape or its new Mercury Mariner cousin before model-year 2008.
Expected in fall 2004 is the long-delayed Escape Hybrid. Full details aren't yet available, but it reportedly uses a 65kW electric motor and a 28kW generator to assist a modified 4-cyl engine, mainly for full-throttle acceleration. The engine will automatically shut off when coasting or stopped to save fuel, and a regenerative braking feature turns the motor into a generator for keeping the batteries juiced, so no external charging is needed. Ford promises the performance and towing capability of a regular V6 Escape with compact-car fuel economy. In fact, an Escape Hybrid recently logged 38 mpg on a 37-hour run, going 576 miles on a single tank of gas--in congested Manhattan traffic, no less. We should be getting more specifics soon, including an idea about pricing, so keep checking back with us. Further out, sources currently see no basic design change for Escape or its new Mercury Mariner cousin before model-year 2008.
2004 Ford Escape Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Cargo room | Noise |
| Maneuverability | |
| Visibility | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
V6 Escapes and Tributes are among the quicker compact SUVs--8.9 sec 0-60 mph in our tests. Ample power for passing and merging, though some testers want more muscle on long upgrades. We have not tested a 4-cyl version.
| XLT Sport | Class Average |
| 5 | 4.2 |
V6 Escapes and Tributes are among the quicker compact SUVs--8.9 sec 0-60 mph in our tests. Ample power for passing and merging, though some testers want more muscle on long upgrades. We have not tested a 4-cyl version.
Fuel Economy
Test AWD V6 Escapes and Tributes averaged 17.5-19.2 mpg in mixed city/highway driving. Extended-use-test AWD V6 Tribute averaged 19.5 mpg in 24,308-mi. test that included lots of highway driving. Both engines use regular-grade fuel.
| XLT Sport | Class Average |
| 5 | 4.7 |
Test AWD V6 Escapes and Tributes averaged 17.5-19.2 mpg in mixed city/highway driving. Extended-use-test AWD V6 Tribute averaged 19.5 mpg in 24,308-mi. test that included lots of highway driving. Both engines use regular-grade fuel.
Ride Quality
Escape and Tribute both feel markedly taut, without wallow or float over dips and swells. Some sharp bumps can register abruptly.
| XLT Sport | Class Average |
| 4 | 4.1 |
Escape and Tribute both feel markedly taut, without wallow or float over dips and swells. Some sharp bumps can register abruptly.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Better than most rivals. In fast cornering, balance and grip quite good; body lean moderate. Steering feel acceptably direct. Good braking power, but some testers complain of too much nosedive in simulated panic stops.
| XLT Sport | Class Average |
| 5 | 4.3 |
Better than most rivals. In fast cornering, balance and grip quite good; body lean moderate. Steering feel acceptably direct. Good braking power, but some testers complain of too much nosedive in simulated panic stops.
Quietness
Noise levels aren't deal breakers, but wind rush is prominent at speed, tires roar on coarse pavement. Escape seems marginally noisier than Tribute.
| XLT Sport | Class Average |
| 4 | 3.8 |
Noise levels aren't deal breakers, but wind rush is prominent at speed, tires roar on coarse pavement. Escape seems marginally noisier than Tribute.
Controls
Legible and generally well-placed, though automatic-transmission gearshift lever is long enough to obstruct some dashboard controls. Ford-designed climate system doesn't allow independent control of air recirculation or air conditioning. Appropriate materials for this class.
| XLT Sport | Class Average |
| 5 | 5.3 |
Legible and generally well-placed, though automatic-transmission gearshift lever is long enough to obstruct some dashboard controls. Ford-designed climate system doesn't allow independent control of air recirculation or air conditioning. Appropriate materials for this class.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Taller riders may want more head room in sunroof-equipped models. But clearance is otherwise generous, and the airy, comfortable cabin belies the compact-SUV exterior dimensions. Driver view unimpeded to sides and rear.
| XLT Sport | Class Average |
| 6 | 5.5 |
Taller riders may want more head room in sunroof-equipped models. But clearance is otherwise generous, and the airy, comfortable cabin belies the compact-SUV exterior dimensions. Driver view unimpeded to sides and rear.
Room/Comfort (rear)
More knee and foot room in this compact SUV than in many midsize SUVs. Seat is supportive and well-contoured, even in center position. Floor is nearly flat, cabin wide enough for short-trip 3-adult comfort. Doorways are wide, but step-in is higher than most rivals'.
| XLT Sport | Class Average |
| 5 | 4.3 |
More knee and foot room in this compact SUV than in many midsize SUVs. Seat is supportive and well-contoured, even in center position. Floor is nearly flat, cabin wide enough for short-trip 3-adult comfort. Doorways are wide, but step-in is higher than most rivals'.
Cargo Room
Generous. Rear seatbacks fold flat once the headrests are removed and the seat bottoms tilted forward. Standard separate-opening rear glass is an added convenience.
| XLT Sport | Class Average |
| 7 | 6.8 |
Generous. Rear seatbacks fold flat once the headrests are removed and the seat bottoms tilted forward. Standard separate-opening rear glass is an added convenience.
Value within Class
Escape and Tribute are solid, spacious, and rewarding to drive. Each costs in the mid-$20,000 range well equipped, making them high-value alternatives to some truck-based SUVs that may be larger on the outside, but don't have significantly more interior space and use more gas.
| XLT Sport | Class Average |
| 10 | 5.6 |
Escape and Tribute are solid, spacious, and rewarding to drive. Each costs in the mid-$20,000 range well equipped, making them high-value alternatives to some truck-based SUVs that may be larger on the outside, but don't have significantly more interior space and use more gas.
Total Score
| XLT Sport | Class Average |
| 56 | 48.6 |
Scores for all Compact Sport-utility Vehicles
| Low Score | 29 | |
| Average Score | 48 | |
| High Score | 61 |
2004 Ford Escape Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 10/27/2003
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
|||
| XLS Value 4-door wagon, 2WD | $18,710 | $17,391 | $590 |
|
|
|||
| XLS 4-door wagon, 2WD | $20,400 | $18,929 | $590 |
|
|
|||
| XLS 4-door wagon, AWD | $22,050 | $20,431 | $590 |
|
|
|||
| XLT 4-door wagon, 2WD | $22,655 | $20,981 | $590 |
|
|
|||
| XLT 4-door wagon, AWD | $24,305 | $22,482 | $590 |
|
|
|||
| Limited 4-door wagon, 2WD | $24,615 | $22,764 | $590 |
|
|
|||
| Limited 4-door wagon, AWD | $26,240 | $24,243 | $590 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
XLS Value
Powertrain
2.0-liter dohc 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, power steering, tilt steering wheel, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, console, cupholders, folding rear seat, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, map lights, visor mirrors, variable-intermittent wipers, rear defogger, rear wiper/washer, automatic-off headlights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, roof rails.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
225/70R15 tires.
XLS adds to XLS Value:
Powertrain
3.0-liter dohc V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
AWD adds: all-wheel drive.
XLT adds to XLS:
Safety
Antilock brakes.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Cruise control, 6-way power driver seat, split folding rear seat, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Rear privacy glass, roof rack, fog lights.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
235/70R16 tires, alloy wheels, AWD adds: all-wheel drive, 235/70R16 white-letter tires .
Limited adds to XLT:
Safety
Front side airbags.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel, automatic day/night rearview mirror, illuminated visor mirrors, cargo cover, automatic headlights.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
AWD adds: all-wheel drive.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Convenience Group
|
||
|
XLS Value, XLS
|
$325
|
$293
|
|
Cruise control, floormats, perimeter alarm system.
|
||
|
Leather Comfort Group
|
||
|
XLT
|
$575
|
$517
|
|
Leather upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel.
|
||
|
XLT Appearance Pkg.
|
||
|
XLT
|
$950
|
$856
|
|
Step bars, 2-tone body cladding, 235/70R16 white-letter tires, bright alloy wheels.
|
||
|
No Boundaries Pkg.
|
||
|
XLT
|
$1,055
|
$950
|
|
Unique roof rack, step bars, wheel-lip moldings, 235/70R16 all-terrain white-letter tires, painted alloy wheels. Requires Class II Trailer Towing Pkg. NA w/power sunroof.
|
||
|
Luxury Comfort Pkg.
|
||
|
Limited
|
$1,095
|
$986
|
|
Rear-obstacle-detection system, heated front seats and mirrors, Mach sound system.
|
||
|
Class II Trailer Towing Pkg.
|
||
|
XLS, XLT, Limited
|
$350
|
$316
|
|
Trailer hitch, 4-wire harness, oil cooler.
|
||
|
|
||
Safety |
||
|
Front side airbags
|
||
|
XLS Value, XLS, XLT
|
$345
|
$310
|
|
Antilock brakes
|
||
|
XLS Value, XLS
|
$575
|
$517
|
|
|
||
Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
|
Power sunroof
|
||
|
XLT, Limited
|
$585
|
$527
|
|
AM/FM/cassette/CD player
|
||
|
XLT
|
$0
|
$0
|
|
Mach sound system
|
||
|
XLT, Limited
|
$565
|
$509
|
|
Cargo cover
|
||
|
XLS Value, XLS, XLT
|
$75
|
$67
|
|
|
||
Appearance and Miscellaneous |
||
|
Roof rack
|
||
|
XLS Value, XLS
|
$40
|
$36
|
|
Side step bars
|
||
|
XLS Value, XLS, XLT
|
$325
|
$293
|
|
XLS Value, XLS require alloy wheels.
|
||
|
|
||
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires |
||
|
Alloy wheels
|
||
|
XLS Value, XLS
|
$375
|
$337
|
|
235/70R16 white-letter tires
|
||
|
2WD XLT
|
$120
|
$108
|
|
|
||
2004 Ford Escape Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Ford Escape 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 103.1 |
| Overall Length, in. | 173.0 |
| Overall Width, in. | 70.1 |
| Overall Height, in. | 69.1 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3175 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 69.2 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 16.0 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 40.4 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.7 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 39.2 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 36.4 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc I4 | dohc V6 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 2.0 /121 | 3.0 /182 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 127 @ 5400 | 201 @ 5900 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 135 @ 4500 | 196 @ 4700 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
||
| 5-speed manual | 23/28 | --/-- |
| 4-speed automatic | --/-- | 18/23 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Ford Escape 4-door wagon |
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | 5/100,000 | Focus only. |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 5/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
USA
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive
Also in the 2004 Ford Escape Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
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