The Good
The 2014 Ford Escape offers spirited performance with its turbocharged engines, agile handling, and a comfortable ride. Its contemporary design appeals emotionally, while strong fuel efficiency, practical cargo space, and a respectable feature set provide practical value. It balances a fun-to-drive nature with the utility and economy sought by many compact SUV buyers.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 2014 Ford Escape often revolve around the PowerShift automatic transmission (especially with the 1.6L EcoBoost), which can exhibit jerky shifts or hesitation. Some owners also report issues with the MyFord Touch infotainment system's complexity and occasional glitches, along with a few engine-related concerns, particularly regarding coolant leaks or overheating in certain EcoBoost variants.
2014 Ford Escape: Quick Overview
The 2014 Ford Escape offered a robust selection of engines to suit various driving preferences:
- 2.5L I-4: This naturally aspirated engine served as the base option, producing 168 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
- 1.6L EcoBoost I-4: A turbocharged option, delivering 178 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. It also utilized a 6-speed automatic transmission and was available with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). This engine aimed for a balance of power and fuel efficiency.
- 2.0L EcoBoost I-4: The most powerful engine available, a turbocharged unit generating 240 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 6-speed automatic, it offered brisk acceleration and was available in FWD and AWD configurations.
Fuel Economy (EPA estimates for FWD models):
- 2.5L: Approximately 22 MPG city / 31 MPG highway
- 1.6L EcoBoost: Approximately 23 MPG city / 32 MPG highway
- 2.0L EcoBoost: Approximately 22 MPG city / 30 MPG highway
0-60 MPH Times (approximate, varies by engine and FWD/AWD):
- 2.5L: Around 9.7 seconds
- 1.6L EcoBoost: Around 8.9 seconds
- 2.0L EcoBoost: Around 7.0 seconds
Towing Capacity:
- Up to 3,500 lbs when properly equipped with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine and the optional Class II Trailer Tow Package.
Trim-Level Features:
- S Trim: Standard features included a rearview camera, Sync voice-activated infotainment, MyKey, a six-speaker sound system, air conditioning, cruise control, and 17-inch steel wheels.
- SE Trim: Added the 1.6L EcoBoost engine as standard (2.5L optional), satellite radio, power driver's seat, fog lights, rear privacy glass, keyless entry keypad, and 17-inch alloy wheels. Options included the 2.0L EcoBoost, navigation, and a panoramic sunroof.
- Titanium Trim: Top-tier trim featuring the 2.0L EcoBoost engine as standard, leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, Sony audio system, power liftgate, remote start, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and active park assist.
2014 Ford Escape Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2014 |
Make | Ford |
Model | Escape |
Trim | - |
Style | - |
Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
Category | Minicompact Car Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | United States |
Manufacturing City | LOUISVILLE |
Dimensions
Doors | 4-Door |
Curb Weight | 3515 pounds |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
Overall Height | 66.3 inches |
Overall Length | 178.1 inches |
Overall Width | 72.4 inches |
Wheelbase Length | 105.9 inches |
Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
Engine | Regular Unleaded I-4, 2.5-L |
Engine Size | 2.5L |
Engine Cylinders | 4 |
Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
Transmission Type | Automatic |
Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel |
Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $23,100 |
Invoice Price | - |
Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2014 Ford Escape Have?
Beyond the powertrain, the MyFord Touch infotainment system, standard on higher trims, has been a source of complaints. Users often describe it as complex, slow to respond, prone to freezing, and occasionally buggy, detracting from the overall user experience. Some owners have also reported issues with the liftgate's operation, ranging from failure to open/close to sensor malfunctions. There have been other recalls covering various components, such as potential fuel line cracks (recall 14S11), side curtain airbag inflators (recall 16S26), and issues with the steering gear motor sensor (recall 14S05) which could affect power steering. While not every 2014 Escape will exhibit these issues, these are common points of concern found across owner forums and reliability surveys, highlighting areas where thorough pre-purchase inspection and service history review are crucial.
How long will the 2014 Ford Escape last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
For entertainment, the S and SE trims came with a six-speaker audio system, while the Titanium boasted an upgraded 10-speaker Sony audio system, delivering premium sound quality. Other conveniences included available dual-zone automatic climate control, a power liftgate (standard on Titanium, optional on SE), and remote start (optional on SE, standard on Titanium).
In terms of driver-assistance and safety features, the 2014 Escape was well-equipped. All models included a rearview camera, MyKey parental control system, antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, front-seat side airbags, a driver's knee airbag, and full-length side curtain airbags. Optional safety features, primarily available on the Titanium trim, included a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert, a lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist system, and an active park assist system that could parallel park the vehicle with minimal driver input.
Crash-test ratings for the 2014 Ford Escape were generally strong. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Escape an overall five-star rating (out of five stars). This included five stars for overall frontal crash protection, five stars for overall side-impact protection, and four stars for rollover resistance. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2014 Escape its top "Good" rating in the moderate-overlap frontal-offset, side-impact, and roof strength tests. However, it received a "Poor" rating in the demanding small-overlap frontal-offset test, which was a common challenge for many vehicles of that era.
What Colors Options are Available?
2014 Ford Escape Prices and Market Value
In the current used market (as of late 2023/early 2024), prices for a 2014 Ford Escape can vary significantly based on mileage, condition, engine, trim level, and regional demand. You can expect to find models ranging from roughly $6,000 for high-mileage or base models with minor issues, up to $12,000-$15,000 for well-maintained, lower-mileage Titanium or SE trims, particularly those with the more reliable 2.5L or 2.0L EcoBoost engines.
Depreciation for the 2014 Escape has been moderate to strong, typical for a popular compact SUV. After a decade, most of its significant depreciation has already occurred, making it a potentially attractive used buy. Factors affecting its resale value today include its overall mechanical condition, the presence of maintenance records, and whether it has the more desirable 2.0L EcoBoost engine or the simpler 2.5L. Known issues with the 1.6L EcoBoost and PowerShift transmission can negatively impact its perceived value and demand. Clean titles and accident-free histories also command higher prices.
2014 Ford Escape Cost of Ownership
Maintenance costs are average for its class, with routine services like oil changes and tire rotations being standard. However, repair costs can sometimes be higher, especially if issues with the 1.6L EcoBoost engine (coolant leaks, overheating) or the PowerShift transmission (hesitation, shuddering) arise. These can lead to significant repair bills if not covered by a recall or extended warranty. Long-term, components like turbochargers on the EcoBoost engines can be costly to replace. Overall, while day-to-day costs are reasonable, the potential for costly powertrain repairs, particularly on certain engine/transmission combinations, means it can lean towards being moderately costly to own if unforeseen issues occur. Buyers should budget for potential repairs.
2014 Ford Escape Fuel Efficiency
2014 Ford Escape Safety Rating
NHTSA
2014 Ford Escape Recalls & Defects
AIR Bags:frontal:sensor/Control Module-Inactive
AIR Bags:side/Window
Seats:front Assembly:recliner
Structure:body:door
Visibility:sun/Moon Roof Assembly
Electrical System:wiring
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Electrical System: Instrument Cluster/Panel
AIR Bags
AIR Bags:side/Window
Seat Belts
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine
Latches/Locks/Linkages:doors:latch
Seat Belts
Seats
Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever and Linkage:floor Shift
Latches/Locks/Linkages:doors:latch
Power Train:automatic Transmission:gear Position Indication (Prndl)
Power Train:shift Linkage/Cable/Rod
2014 Ford Escape Warranty
Basic
Corrosion
Drivetrain
Roadside Assistance
2014 Ford Escape Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2014 Ford Escape Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
In terms of Performance, the Escape generally offers a more engaging and spirited driving experience than many of its peers, especially with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine which provides segment-leading horsepower. The Mazda CX-5 comes close in handling dynamics, but the Escape often feels more robust. The CR-V and RAV4, while competent, are typically less exciting to drive.
Regarding Features, the Escape was strong, particularly in its higher trims, offering advanced tech like the MyFord Touch infotainment (albeit with its flaws), active park assist, and a power liftgate. The RAV4 and CR-V were often more conservative with standard features, while the Tucson and CX-5 offered good value but sometimes lacked the same breadth of high-end options as the Escape Titanium.
Reliability is where the Escape can be a mixed bag compared to its top rivals. The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are often lauded for their bulletproof reliability and lower long-term ownership costs. The Escape's known issues with the 1.6L EcoBoost engine (coolant leaks, overheating) and the PowerShift transmission can put it at a disadvantage, particularly when compared to the consistently high reliability ratings of its Japanese competitors. The 2.5L and 2.0L EcoBoost variants generally fare better in long-term reliability than the 1.6L. The Mazda CX-5 and Hyundai Tucson offer competitive reliability, often falling between the Escape and the segment leaders.
In terms of Price, new, the Escape was competitively positioned. In the used market today, its price is generally comparable to or slightly less than similarly equipped CR-Vs and RAV4s due to the perceived reliability differences.
Alternatives:
- Better Reliability: For those prioritizing absolute reliability and lower long-term risk, the 2014 Honda CR-V and 2014 Toyota RAV4 are consistently excellent choices. They might be less engaging to drive but offer peace of mind.
- Similar Driving Dynamics/Value: The 2014 Mazda CX-5 offers comparable or even superior handling, good fuel economy, and strong reliability. It's a great alternative if you want a fun-to-drive compact SUV without the Escape's potential powertrain issues. The 2014 Hyundai Tucson also offers good value and a decent warranty.
Final Verdict: Is the 2014 Ford Escape a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
Is it worth buying? Yes, but with significant caveats. It is generally worth buying as a used vehicle, provided you are diligent in your pre-purchase inspection. Specifically, aim for models with the more reliable 2.5L naturally aspirated engine or the powerful 2.0L EcoBoost. Exercise caution with the 1.6L EcoBoost engine and its associated PowerShift transmission, as these combinations have a higher risk of costly long-term issues. Ensure a thorough service history check and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic. If you find a well-maintained 2.0L EcoBoost Titanium or SE at a good price, it offers a compelling blend of performance, features, and style that still holds up. Avoid models with significant known powertrain issues unless the price is exceptionally low and you're prepared for potential repairs.