23 MPG combined won’t break any fuel economy records, but the 2016 Ford Escape AWD with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine prioritizes practicality, capability, and fun in a compact SUV. This configuration is for buyers in colder areas or those who occasionally drive on light trails, putting all-weather traction and responsive power ahead of absolute fuel efficiency.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Ford Escape AWD 2.0L EcoBoost are 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure shows the impact of stop-and-go traffic, where the turbocharger is less helpful and the all-wheel-drive system adds weight. The highway number is better, indicating the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at speed. However, reaching 28 MPG requires a light foot and consistent speeds. Fast acceleration or high speeds will reduce that number. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and predictably in most situations, but drivers who want maximum fuel economy should learn its shift patterns and anticipate when to reduce the throttle.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Ford Escape AWD 2.0L EcoBoost at $1,900. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel price when the calculation was made. Actual fuel costs will change depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the city versus highway miles driven. Drivers who mostly commute in congested urban areas, or who frequently engage the all-wheel-drive system, will likely spend more than $1,900 annually on fuel.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a starting point, but real-world fuel economy for the 2016 Ford Escape AWD 2.0L EcoBoost is often a bit lower than the official numbers. Factors like driving style, terrain, and weather can change the MPG. Owners often report combined fuel economy in the 20-22 MPG range. Check sites with user-submitted data for more information. The 2.0L EcoBoost offers more performance than the base engine, but it uses more fuel, especially with all-wheel drive.

How it compares

The 2016 Ford Escape AWD 2.0L EcoBoost is in the middle of the pack for fuel economy compared to other compact SUVs of its time. The Honda CR-V with all-wheel drive typically gets about 28 MPG combined, making it more fuel efficient. The Toyota RAV4 offers a slightly better MPG rating than the Escape, around 24 MPG combined. Choosing the front-wheel-drive Escape with the 2.0L EcoBoost can increase fuel economy by a couple of MPG, but all-weather capability is reduced. The Mazda CX-5, especially with its naturally aspirated engine, focuses on driving and fuel efficiency, with a combined rating around 26 MPG. Buyers who want performance often accept the fuel tradeoff, but those who want maximum efficiency should consider other options.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2016 Ford Escape AWD 2.0L EcoBoost responds well to smooth driving. Avoid hard acceleration and braking, as these actions use more fuel. Anticipate traffic and maintain a steady speed. Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and optimize fuel efficiency.

Regular maintenance is important for good fuel economy. Make sure your tires are properly inflated, as low tires increase rolling resistance which lowers MPG. Check all Ford fuel economy data for the Escape’s recommended tire pressure. Keep up with maintenance, such as oil changes and air filter replacements, as these can improve engine performance.

Reduce your use of accessories that strain the engine. Air conditioning, especially on hot days, can lower fuel economy. Use the Recirculation mode to cool the cabin more efficiently and decrease the load on the compressor. Don’t carry unnecessary weight in the vehicle, as this can also reduce MPG.

Pay attention to the all-wheel-drive system. The system usually operates in front-wheel drive, but it can automatically engage all four wheels when needed. When all-wheel drive isn’t needed, such as on dry roads, avoid driving in ways that will engage 4 wheel drive. Understanding how the system works can help you reduce its impact on fuel use. Check ESCAPE MPG across all years to compare fuel economy across different drivetrain configurations.