Vehicle information:

The Ford Escape is a perennial compact-crossover favorite, and we expect much of the same for the updated 2017 version. The Escape earns its crossover stripes with optional all-wheel drive, respectable fuel economy, a spacious cargo bay and an available hands-free power liftgate with a super-cool foot sensor. But its also agile and instills a level of driver confidence thats quite rare in this class.

The 2017 Ford Escapes freshened front-end styling makes it look like a "mini-me" version of the midsize Ford Edge.
For 2017, certain desirable features have trickled down to more affordable price points, such as the newly standard automatic climate control system on the midgrade SE trim level. Inside, theres now a convenient storage area ahead of the shift lever for your phone and such, while additional stowage options have been sprinkled throughout the cabin.
If youve been waiting for full smartphone integration with the Sync 3 interface, youre in luck for 2017, which sees the advent of both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, not to mention the new FordPass with Sync Connect ownership app. Furthermore, the Escape is now more or less up to date in terms of safety offerings, providing modern technologies like lane-departure prevention and forward collision alert for shoppers so inclined.
Ford has also tinkered with the Escapes engines this year. The previous volume-selling turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine has been replaced by a turbocharged 1.5-liter version. The new 1.5 has similar power and fuel economy specs to the 1.6, but the "turbocharged" part is more about fuel economy than performance. If you can swing it, the potent 2.0-liter turbo engine, which makes a bit more horsepower and torque this year, makes the Escape one of the quickest small crossovers in its class.
While the 2017 Ford Escape is a solid vehicle with many strengths, there are a few rivals wed advise you to consider. Like the Escape, the Mazda CX-5 is feature-packed and will appeal to those looking for a crossover that handles more like an agile hatchback. Nor will you go wrong with the Honda CR-V, which is roomier on the inside than the Ford and Mazda. Were also fans of the all-new Kia Sportage, a surprisingly refined and upscale alternative that offers an optional turbocharged engine to match the 2.0-liter Escape. But if youre looking for a tried-and-true crossover thats capable across the board, this Ford should still hit the spot.