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2010 Ford Escape Quality Review

August 13, 2009

COMFORT AND QUALITY | 7 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

Escape's interior imparts a low-buck atmosphere
ConsumerGuide

doesn't feel horribly cheap, especially given the reasonable $20,000 sticker price
Automobile Magazine

the firmer new foam is an improvement over earlier seats
The Auto Channel

ride quality is impressive in all models
Popular Mechanics

Even though Ford has made modest improvements to the interior of the 2010 Ford Escape in recent model years, the interior remains a weakness; compared to rival models, it has a cut-rate feel, and materials still aren't quite up to the standards of segment leaders. The Escape is also less roomy or space-efficient than you might think, given the very boxy shape.

Inside the 2010 Ford Escape, there’s ample room for four adults. ConsumerGuide says that “while the optional sunroof cuts into headroom a bit, most adults should find more than adequate headroom. Legroom is good for most adults, though taller riders would benefit from longer seat tracks.”

Popular Mechanics reports that “ride quality is impressive in all models, and the suspension's compliance soaks up big potholes and surface irregularities surprisingly well.” ConsumerGuide also says the Escape's ride is “pleasant, given the age of its basic design. Bumps are heard more than they're felt. Some float is noticeable at highway speeds, but it's not bothersome.”

Several reviewers point out the Escape's inferior cabin materials. "Disappointing overall,” comments ConsumerGuide. “Escape's interior imparts a low-buck atmosphere with lots of hard plastic trim and odd panel textures.” Automobile Magazine, in testing a simple four-cylinder model, reports, "The fan made a bit too much noise when I sent the heat toward the floorboards instead of my face, but that isn't a deal breaker." The Automobile Magazine reviewer comments, "The very basic interior looks and feels better than those of earlier Escapes, but you won't be fooled into thinking you're in a $40,000 vehicle."

Conclusion

The 2010 Ford Escape just doesn't meet the standards of its peers inside; its cabin look and feel is hampered by inferior materials and trim.

COMFORT AND QUALITY | 7 out of 10Expert Quotes:Escape's interior imparts a low-buck atmosphereConsumerGuidedoesn't feel horribly cheap, especially given the reasonable $20,000 sticker priceAutomobile Magazinethe firmer new foam is an improvement over earlier seatsThe Auto Channelride quality is impressive in all modelsPopular Mechanics Even though Ford has made modest improvements to the interior of the 2010 Ford Escape in recent model years, the interior remains a weakness; compared to rival models, it has a cut-rate feel, and materials still aren't quite up to the standards of segment leaders. The Escape is also less roomy or space-efficient than you might think, given the very boxy shape. Inside the 2010 Ford Escape, there’s ample room for four adults. ConsumerGuide says that “while the optional sunroof cuts into headroom a bit, most adults should find more than adequate headroom. Legroom is good for most adults, though taller riders would benefit from longer seat tracks.” Popular Mechanics reports that “ride quality is impressive in all models, and the suspension's compliance soaks up big potholes and surface irregularities surprisingly well.” ConsumerGuide also says the Escape's ride is “pleasant, given the age of its basic design. Bumps are heard more than they're felt. Some float is noticeable at highway speeds, but it's not bothersome.” Several reviewers point out the Escape's inferior cabin materials. "Disappointing overall,” comments ConsumerGuide. “Escape's interior imparts a low-buck atmosphere with lots of hard plastic trim and odd panel textures.” Automobile Magazine, in testing a simple four-cylinder model, reports, "The fan made a bit too much noise when I sent the heat toward the floorboards instead of my face, but that isn't a deal breaker." The Automobile Magazine reviewer comments, "The very basic interior looks and feels better than those of earlier Escapes, but you won't be fooled into thinking you're in a $40,000 vehicle." ConclusionThe 2010 Ford Escape just doesn't meet the standards of its peers inside; its cabin look and feel is hampered by inferior materials and trim. 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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