The 2020 Ford Escape in Bismarck: Performance + Handling
Posted at Wed, Jan 22, 2020 9:45 AM
We’ve already covered the design and styling in this 3-part blog series on the new 2020 Ford Escape, and now we’ll cover the performance and handling aspects that make this compact SUV the one to buy.
Ford’s redesigned top-selling SUV is much improved in 2020, and that includes more than just how good it looks. It has five trim levels and four eventual powertrains, and will jet you around Bismarck quickly.
Let’s get behind the wheel to learn more.
There Are A Lot of Options…
In a world where compact SUVs are flying off dealership lots, Ford knew it had to stay competitive with this Escape redesign. That’s why there are trim and performance options for everyone.
Available Trim Levels
- S
- SE
- Hybrid-only SE Sport
- SEL
- Titanium
Available Powertrains
- Two gasoline engines
- Hybrid
- Plug-in hybrid (available Spring 2020)
All trim levels come standard with front-wheel drive, except for the (non-hybrid) Titanium trim, which comes standard with all-wheel drive. Of course, you can add all-wheel drive to any of the trim models — a necessity for North Dakota driving!
A Quick and Refined Engine
The base power on the Escape is a turbocharged 1.5-liter, three-cylinder, offering drivers 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. This kicks in more quickly and smoothly than the 1.5-liter, four-cylinder of models past.
If you need more power, you’ll be covered with an upgrade to the Titanium or all-wheel drive SEL trim level. These options house a 2.0-liter with 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. At these specs, the new 2020 Escape comes to an even faster dash than past models of similar trim level. It’s certainly one of the quickest compact SUVs in the segment.
Towing, Transmission, and Fuel Economy
If you’re planning to pull a small travel trailer come summer, you’re likely wondering about the towing capacity on the new Escape. Here’s the rundown for you adventurers and hard workers:
- 2.0-liter (Titanium or AWD SEL) — maximum 3500lbs
- 1.5-liter — maximum 2000lbs
- Hybrids — maximum 1500lbs
The two gas engines on the Escape have an eight-speed automatic transmission that shifts quickly and smoothly. Five drive modes come standard on all trim levels:
- Normal
- Eco
- Sport
- Slippery
- Snow/Sand
More MPG Than Before
With the generation switch on the Escape, fuel economy increases — up 3 to 4 mpgs — making this a thrifty, economical choice.
- 1.5-liter — 27 city / 33 highway
- 2.0-liter — 23 city / 31 highway
- Hybrid — may be up to 40 mpg when released
If that fuel economy isn’t enough to get you to buy a new, improved Escape, then we don’t know what is!
Feel It For Yourself With a Bismarck Test Drive
The new 2020 Ford Escape really is improved from the previous generation. You can take our word for it, or you can experience the smooth quickness and capability yourself with a test drive.
Customer Account