FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About the Ford Escape

North Liberty and Cedar Rapids drivers are quickly recognizing the advantages of the SUV over the likes of a sedan or truck. Models such as the Ford Escape resonate with our customers because of how familiar they feel to experienced sedan drivers while still being able to provide a new level of utility they've never had before. If you're considering making the jump to the Ford Escape, it's important to have all the facts, so we've taken the time to answer your most pressing questions.

Does the Escape need premium gas?

It's not a requirement for Ford Escape owners around Coralville and Iowa City to use premium fuel, but it is recommended, particularly on the available turbocharged EcoBoost engines. Premium fuel is best for maximizing your power output, so if you want the best possible performance, this is the way to go.

Does the Escape have Apple CarPlay?

Apple CarPlay is available on the Ford Escape as an optional upgrade for the SYNC infotainment system. Android Auto is also available.

How many rows does the Escape have?

The Ford Escape is a two-row SUV that sits up to five people.

How much cargo capacity do I get with the Ford Escape?

Behind the back row, the Ford Escape has a sizable 34 cubic feet of cargo space. This number doubles when you fold down the back row to 68 cubic feet.

Is the Escape bigger than the EcoSport/Edge/Flex?

In terms of overall cargo capacity, the Ford Escape is larger than the EcoSport. The EcoSport has 50 cubic feet of space, while the Escape has 68 cubic feet. Compared to its other mid-size siblings, the Escape is more compact than both the Edge and the Flex.

How does the Escape handle the snow?

Overall, the Ford Escape handles incredibly well thanks to its rigid suspension even as a front-wheel-drive model. However, if Marion IA drivers want to take their handling to the next level, particularly in snowy conditions, the available Intelligent Four-Wheel-Drive monitors road conditions and the Escape's traction every 16 milliseconds. The result is a system that dynamically adjusts to ever-changing conditions to maximize your handling.

How do I update the Escape's navigation software?

The roadways are constantly changing, so if you want to make sure your Escape's navigation system is up to date, you'll need to head over to Ford's map update site. Find the Escape and your model year from the dropdown menu, and you'll be able to purchase the requisite update.

How do I remote start the Ford Escape?

Like other vehicles in the Ford lineup, the Escape has a remote start feature. From your key fob, press the "2X" icon twice, and your Escape will start automatically. This can be done from as far as 325 feet away, and if you have features such as automatic climate control or heated seats, you can configure them to activate on startup.

Is the Ford Escape a reliable car?

Yes, it is. Like every other vehicle in the Ford lineup, the Escape has been expertly designed to hold up over the long haul. Ford vehicles are routinely among the most durable vehicles on the road today, making them smart buys for drivers shopping for a pre-owned vehicle.

What is the towing capabilities of the Escape?

As a mid-size SUV, the Ford Escape is capable of towing an expensive toy or two. You can expect to get a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.

What is the Escape EcoBoost?

When you hear the word EcoBoost, it refers to engine options throughout the Ford lineup. In the case of the Ford Escape, drivers have a pair of EcoBoost engines to choose from. The first is a 1.5-liter engine that gets 179 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque while the second is a 2.0-liter engine that produces a 245 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. EcoBoost engines are unique in the sense that they combine direct fuel injection with turbocharging, which allows the engine to improve fuel economy without sacrificing any power.