23 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards for the 2017 Ford Escape AWD with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine, but it’s an acceptable compromise for buyers who want quick acceleration and the confidence of all-wheel drive in varied weather conditions. This isn’t the entry-level, budget-focused Escape; it’s configured for those seeking more power than the base engine offers and who understand that extra performance means slightly lower gas mileage.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway show the strengths and weaknesses of the turbocharged 2.0L engine. In cities, where stop-and-go traffic is common, accelerating from a standstill uses extra gas. The turbocharger spools up often, demanding more fuel to deliver the necessary boost. On the open road, however, the Escape’s fuel efficiency improves. Maintaining a steady speed allows the engine to operate more efficiently, minimizing the need for aggressive acceleration. The six-speed automatic transmission also plays a role, selecting the best gear for cruising at highway speeds. This engine is the upgrade choice: buyers know they’re sacrificing a few MPG for the engine’s added power.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Ford Escape AWD 2.0L at $1,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices. This number is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on the type of driving you do, your driving habits, and fuel prices in your area. However, it provides a useful way to compare the Escape’s fuel costs to those of other vehicles in its class. It’s worth comparing this figure against other models when considering the total cost of ownership.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standard measure, real-world fuel economy often differs. Factors such as driving style, traffic conditions, and even tire pressure can affect the MPG you actually achieve. Owners who frequently drive in congested city traffic or accelerate hard are likely to see numbers closer to the 20 MPG city rating, or even slightly lower. People who do mostly highway driving and drive more efficiently may be able to meet or even slightly exceed the 27 MPG highway rating. Owner reviews suggest that the EPA estimates are fairly accurate but individual results will vary.

How it compares

In the compact SUV segment, the 2017 Ford Escape AWD 2.0L sits somewhere in the middle of the fuel economy spectrum. Front-wheel drive versions of the Escape, especially those with the 1.5L EcoBoost engine, achieve higher MPG, often around 26 MPG combined. The Honda CR-V, in its comparable AWD form, typically achieves around 28 MPG combined, making it a more fuel-efficient choice. The Toyota RAV4, another popular competitor, also generally offers slightly better fuel economy, around 25-26 MPG combined in its AWD configuration. However, neither the CR-V nor the RAV4 offer the same turbocharged performance as the Escape’s 2.0L EcoBoost engine. For those prioritizing power and acceleration, the lower fuel economy may be acceptable. Potential buyers often compare these models. A closer look at ESCAPE MPG across all years can offer useful context.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The turbocharger in the Escape 2.0L EcoBoost responds aggressively to throttle inputs, so accelerate smoothly and gradually. Avoiding sudden bursts of speed will minimize the amount of fuel the engine consumes and help keep your MPG closer to the EPA estimates. Anticipating traffic flow and maintaining a consistent speed will minimize fuel consumption.

Proper tire inflation is important for fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, and make sure it matches the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Even a slight difference from the recommended pressure can have an impact.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra cargo adds to the Escape’s overall load, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Remove any items that you don’t need regularly to lighten the load and improve fuel efficiency. This is relevant for those who frequently haul cargo.

Use cruise control on the highway whenever possible. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy. It prevents unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, allowing the engine to operate more efficiently. Be mindful of using cruise control in hilly terrain, because it may cause the transmission to downshift often, negating some of the benefits. A deeper dive into all Ford fuel economy data can inform broader strategies to save fuel.