23 MPG combined isn’t going to set the world on fire, but for the 2019 Ford Escape AWD with the 2.0L EcoBoost, it’s what you get with a compact SUV that delivers a spirited driving experience and confidence-inspiring all-wheel drive. This isn’t a hybrid designed for hypermilers; it’s a versatile vehicle built for active lifestyles, weekend adventures, and those who prioritize a peppy engine over using as little fuel as possible.

City and highway performance

The EPA numbers break down to 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the Escape’s automatic six-speed transmission will spend more time shifting and the engine will be working harder to accelerate from lights. The highway number is more respectable and represents steady-state cruising, where the engine can settle into its most efficient operating range. The 2.0L EcoBoost isn’t designed to be babied, though, so aggressive acceleration for merging or passing will naturally hurt your fuel economy. A lighter foot will be rewarded on longer journeys.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $1,900 for the 2019 Ford Escape AWD 2.0L. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and assumes national average fuel prices. This is a benchmark for comparing the Escape’s running costs against other vehicles in its class. Keep in mind that your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and where you live, as fuel prices can fluctuate significantly from region to region.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, but real-world fuel economy often deviates. Drivers who frequently engage the all-wheel-drive system in challenging conditions, live in hilly areas, or drive heavy-footed can expect to see numbers closer to the low end of the EPA range, or even slightly below. Conversely, drivers who primarily stick to well-maintained highways and drive with a focus on fuel efficiency may find themselves exceeding the 27 MPG highway estimate. Understanding your own driving style and typical routes is essential for setting realistic fuel economy expectations.

How it compares

The 2019 Ford Escape AWD 2.0L is in a competitive segment. The Toyota RAV4, particularly the LE AWD trim, offers a more frugal 25 MPG combined, appealing to buyers prioritizing efficiency most of all. The Honda CR-V EX AWD achieves a similar 26 MPG combined, offering a balance of practicality and fuel economy. Even the Mazda CX-5 with its standard 2.5L engine manages a combined 24 MPG, showing Mazda’s commitment to efficiency even without hybrid assistance. For buyers considering the Escape, the slightly lower fuel economy is often justified by the more responsive and engaging driving experience offered by the 2.0L EcoBoost engine, showing a willingness to prioritize performance over pure thriftiness. You can also find all Ford fuel economy data here.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and ensure they are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. Correct tire pressure can noticeably improve your fuel economy, particularly on long highway trips. For more information, you can also review ESCAPE MPG across all years.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The 2.0L EcoBoost engine is eager to deliver power, but using it excessively will negatively impact your fuel economy. Anticipate traffic flow, maintain a consistent speed, and accelerate and brake smoothly when possible. This driving style not only improves fuel efficiency but also reduces wear and tear on your vehicle.

Minimize idling. Letting your engine idle for extended periods, such as in drive-through lines or while waiting for someone, wastes fuel. If you expect to be stationary for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so you won’t cause any harm by turning it off and on.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a constant speed, minimizing fluctuations in fuel consumption. By maintaining a steady pace, you avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking, optimizing fuel efficiency on long highway stretches. Be sure to disengage cruise control in inclement weather or heavy traffic.