The Ford Escape 2020 model year is already a customer favorite, especially since it features a hybrid variant.

What are the Best Model Years for the Ford Escape?

The 2020 Ford Escape represents significant advancements, particularly in power and acceleration. The hybrid variant is back and better than ever for the 2020 model year, giving buyers many options. If money is an issue, look for a 2017 Escape with good engine options and sedan-like handling and steering.

Ford Escape Years to Avoid

The 2014 Ford Escape was probably the worst year for the Escape. While the 2008 model year has received the most complaints, the 2014 model year takes the cake as the worst year for the Escape due to severe transmission problems.

Most complaints about the 2014 Escape’s transmission center on the transmission unexpectedly stopping. The trade-in value can range between $3,500 and $4,200 (assuming the transmission is working fine), which is roughly the cost of replacing the transmission.

Some buyers experienced a second transmission failure within a year of purchase.

When the transmission fails, it rarely gives any warning, leaving most drivers stranded. A few lucky drivers were able to restart their Escapes and get back on the road, while others reported strange noises, rapid deceleration, lurching, and difficulty shifting gears.

Transmission issues seem to appear between 70,000—80,000 miles, which is quite low. Some buyers even reported transmission failures at 20,000 miles, which is poor.

This is a significant and costly issue because some buyers were still making payments on their cars when the transmissions failed. Most transmissions have a service life of at least 100,000 miles or more.

Dealerships told owners they’d never heard of these issues before and weren’t sure what caused them. The manufacturer never issued a recall, much to the frustration of everyone who had their 2014 Escape’s transmission fail.

Even the cost of transmission replacements or repairs would not be covered. They would also contend that they would not under any circumstances cover the cost if even a few miles were driven outside the warranty’s guidelines.

There have been no reports of transmission failures causing accidents, but it is possible.

Best Years For Ford Escape

If you can afford it, go with the 2020 Ford Escape. It represents significant advancements over prior generations and has a modern feel. The 2017 Escape is the next best option and is slightly less expensive. They have plenty of cargo space and are capable off-roaders when equipped with AWD. It’s advisable to stay away from the 2014 Escape and its series of transmission failure problems.

The following is how I would rank the best Ford Escape:

1. 2020 Model

This model is a big upgrade to the previous models. The infotainment system is optional, but it’s a new and updated version of SYNC 3. It also has: two rows of seats that are large enough for adults, quick and responsive handling, a slew of driver-friendly features, and is extremely reliable.

The only issue with this model is the transmission.

Many Ford Escapes have transmission problems, but this one will occasionally hunt for the correct gear while driving. If you’re not sure what I’m talking about, it’s when you change gears, but the transmission doesn’t make a smooth transition.

The transmission occasionally “search” or “hunt” for the proper gear, switching between many before settling on the correct one. When this happens, the SUV will shift into each gear the transmission lands on, resulting in a bumpy and terrifying ride.

2.2017 Model

Despite being a few years old, this model is still regarded as one of the best Ford Escape models. This model received an interior and exterior design update, making it sleeker than the 2016 version. This model also comes with a 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder engine designed for high efficiency and brisk performance.

This vehicle has been praised for its spacious interior and fuel-efficient options. However, these options do not always work. The engine also has a start-stop system, which saves gas when driving in traffic jams and having to stop every 5 seconds.

3.2018 Model

This model does not have as many major updates as the 2017 model, but despite its poor fuel economy ratings, it is known to be extremely reliable. It also has a spacious cargo area, precise steering, and turbocharged engine options. Although, it lacks a standard touch screen.

This model has been on the market for 4 years, and used vehicles that are four years old typically give the best deals. While the 2017 Ford Escape is widely regarded as the best model available, the 2018 model may be a better value.

4.2015 Model

This model is significantly more fuel efficient than the 2017 and 2018 models. It also has a spacious, comfortable cabin and numerous technological features. However, the high-tech features do not always work as well as they appear. This model lacks interior storage cubbies too.

5.2019 Model

The Ford Escape Titanium 2019 model has a 2.0-liter turbo engine that provides very quick acceleration. The standard Ford Escape 2019 model is powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which reduces fuel economy.

Unlike the 2015 model, this one has interior storage space. Its excellent handling is why people frequently commend how it drives more like a regular car than an SUV. The 2019 model also includes Apple Play, Android Auto, and voice control.

6.2016 Model

This was the first model to replace Ford’s standard MyFord infotainment system with the new and improved SYNC 3. It addressed shortcomings in the previous system. However, it would take them a few more tries to master the new SYNC 3 system, which was admittedly frustrating the first time around.

The 2016 model has responsive handling, powerful turbocharged engines, and a lot of space in the back.

7.2009 Model

The model from 2009 is an oldie but a goodie. It has plenty of interior space and features that make it a decent ride.

The disadvantage is that it does not appear fancy as the competition, and the interior design is quite aged and out of date, but these aren’t major issues. It’s still a good ride, and it’ll be cheap as a used car if you can find someone who still has one running. The model from 2009 is an oldie but a goodie.