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2010 Ford Escape Features Review

August 13, 2009

FEATURES | 8 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

Expect to pay a bigger monthly premium for this level of on-the-road connectivity
Popular Mechanics

Travel Link also does a whole bunch of other cool stuff
Car and Driver

complicates some functions by requiring multiple button and/or touch-screen presses
ConsumerGuide

Just as Ford ups the ante for safety by offering more high-tech safety gear, the automaker doesn't disappoint in its list of entertainment and convenience options. The 2010 Ford Escape includes some very exciting tech features, but most are either somewhat pricey options or not available on the base models.

The SYNC interface in the 2010 Ford Escape is still likely the coolest entertainment and communications-related feature in the compact-crossover class. “Sync comes standard on Escape Limited and Escape Hybrid Limited models, and is optional on all other models," says Popular Mechanics, adding that the voice-activated nav system “uses Sirius Travel Link, which includes such goodies as weather maps, movie listings and a fuel-finder system that locates and sorts nearby gas stations by price, location and brand.”

“Travel Link also does a whole bunch of other cool stuff such as locating the cheapest and closest gas stations and linking with the nav system to get you there, or hooking up with your cell phone to make restaurant reservations," reports Car and Driver. "The system will let you watch a DVD (while parked, of course), rip MP3s to the 10-gig hard drive, and upload family photos to use as wallpaper." But they caution, “Expect to pay a bigger monthly premium for this level of on-the-road connectivity.”

ConsumerGuide warns that while the navigation system absorbs most audio controls, “it complicates some functions by requiring multiple button and/or touch-screen presses for some simple tasks. Redundant steering-wheel buttons and voice programming via Ford's Sync system help.”

Conclusion

The 2010 Ford Escape has a very attractive entry price, but to get the most desirable options, you'll have to pay a lot more.

FEATURES | 8 out of 10Expert Quotes:Expect to pay a bigger monthly premium for this level of on-the-road connectivityPopular MechanicsTravel Link also does a whole bunch of other cool stuffCar and Drivercomplicates some functions by requiring multiple button and/or touch-screen pressesConsumerGuide Just as Ford ups the ante for safety by offering more high-tech safety gear, the automaker doesn't disappoint in its list of entertainment and convenience options. The 2010 Ford Escape includes some very exciting tech features, but most are either somewhat pricey options or not available on the base models. The SYNC interface in the 2010 Ford Escape is still likely the coolest entertainment and communications-related feature in the compact-crossover class. “Sync comes standard on Escape Limited and Escape Hybrid Limited models, and is optional on all other models," says Popular Mechanics, adding that the voice-activated nav system “uses Sirius Travel Link, which includes such goodies as weather maps, movie listings and a fuel-finder system that locates and sorts nearby gas stations by price, location and brand.” “Travel Link also does a whole bunch of other cool stuff such as locating the cheapest and closest gas stations and linking with the nav system to get you there, or hooking up with your cell phone to make restaurant reservations," reports Car and Driver. "The system will let you watch a DVD (while parked, of course), rip MP3s to the 10-gig hard drive, and upload family photos to use as wallpaper." But they caution, “Expect to pay a bigger monthly premium for this level of on-the-road connectivity.” ConsumerGuide warns that while the navigation system absorbs most audio controls, “it complicates some functions by requiring multiple button and/or touch-screen presses for some simple tasks. Redundant steering-wheel buttons and voice programming via Ford's Sync system help.” ConclusionThe 2010 Ford Escape has a very attractive entry price, but to get the most desirable options, you'll have to pay a lot more. 2010 FORD ESCAPE STYLING | [8 out of 10] Popular Mechanics: "Exterior changes are subtle" Automobile Magazine: "receives a redesigned center stack" Car and Driver: "Not even a thorough interior and exterior refresh could save the 2008 iteration from a seventh-place finish” From a ...

Read More of this Review:

  1. styling
  2. performance
  3. quality
  4. safety
  5. features

Other Choices:

Don't get penned in by the Escape's conservative look; it competes head-on with a variety of compact crossovers, some of which are sleek and rakish. One of those is the Nissan Rogue. The Rogue doesn't even pretend to be tough or off-road-worthy; it's a tall wagon, with space for five, good ride quality, and a fuel-efficient four-cylinder powertrain. The Hyundai Tucson looks a little more carlike than the Escape, but it's one of the least refined in the group; it's due for a complete redesign later this year. The Honda CR-V is one of our all-time favorites, if you only look at the driving experience, but some people have a hard time getting past the SUV's styling and the lack of optional V-6 power. Subaru's Forester became significantly larger for 2009, and it's now a roomier alternative to the Escape, with a nice, smooth ride and responsive handling. Finally, the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox has been redesigned and is now a much better vehicle than before, with a vastly improved interior, plus a smooth, economical four-cylinder base engine and six-speed automatic transmission.

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See the Ford Escape in Other Years:

2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001

Comments (3 total)

  1. By  Dave #1, Posted: 8/31/2009

    Just bought a 2010 escape and so far I love it. I have the XLT with the sync/sunroof option. It's the 4 cylinder 6 speed automatic. I'm getting around 24 MPG around town and expect 28 MPG or better on the highway. This car does all that's it's advertised to do. It's quiet, responsive, smooth, and comfortable. It has a great sound system and the onboard hands free phone works great as well. My only complaint is that it's supposed to have the outside convex blindspot mirrors as standard equipment. Mine does not. I have contacted my dealer and have written Ford about this feature. I'm hoping they will replace them at no charge. If Ford takes care of this problem, I'm seriously considering buying a second Escape for my wife. Botton line. Nice car and a good value for the money!

  2. By joed #2, Posted: 9/6/2009

    I have a 2009 Escape, basically the same as the 2010 and also like the vehicle. It is funny how some reviews like one thing on a vehicle and another review hates that same thing. All around this vehicle does a great job. One thing not noted is the capless fuel tank. Doesn't sound like a big deal, but it sure is great not having to put a cap on and off when fueling.

  3. By April #3, Posted: 9/28/2009

    I too just recently bought a 2010 XLT with Moonroof and the Sync system! I love this vehicle. It's fun to drive, really quiet inside, and the sirius radio and hands free phone features! I have plenty of room for the four of us and still have a stylish ride at an affordable price.

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