The 2017 Ford Escape FWD with its 2.0L EcoBoost engine gets a combined 25 MPG, a reasonable figure. This configuration is for buyers who want a zippy engine and responsive driving over saving gas. It’s a crossover for suburbanites who value confident acceleration for merging onto highways and a bit of pep for running errands, even if it costs a bit more at the pump. The 2.0L EcoBoost gives the Escape its character, and many owners happily trade a few MPGs for the added power.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2017 Escape FWD 2.0L are 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. Many drivers will see the biggest variation in the city figure, depending on their driving and traffic. Stop-and-go traffic is hard on the turbocharged engine, so expect that number to drop if your daily commute is a gridlock nightmare. The 29 MPG highway estimate is more achievable, particularly on longer road trips at a steady speed. However, even on the highway, aggressive acceleration while passing or a heavy foot will noticeably impact fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Ford Escape FWD 2.0L at $1,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Note that this is just an estimate; your actual fuel costs will vary depending on how many miles you drive, the price of gasoline in your area, and your driving habits. A lead-footed driver in an area with high gas prices could easily exceed that number, while a more conservative driver who keeps up with recommended maintenance and lives where gas is cheaper might spend less. Owners should use this $1,750 figure as a benchmark and then adjust it based on their own circumstances. Remember that individual results can vary.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy can differ based on several factors. Drivers who frequently tow trailers or carry heavy loads will see a decrease in MPG. Similarly, driving in mountainous terrain or constantly using the air conditioning at full blast will also impact fuel consumption. For the most accurate estimate of what you can expect, track your fuel economy over a few months and compare it to the EPA numbers. Online forums and driver communities are also great resources for learning how other Escape owners with the 2.0L engine are performing.

How it compares

In the compact SUV segment, the 2017 Escape 2.0L FWD competes with many vehicles. A Honda CR-V with its 1.5L turbo might get closer to 28 MPG combined. The Mazda CX-5 with its naturally aspirated 2.5L engine aims for a sportier driving experience and often gets around 26 MPG combined in real-world testing. Even the Toyota RAV4, known for its reliability, typically posts slightly better fuel economy numbers, often averaging close to 27 MPG combined even without a turbo. To see all Ford fuel economy data, consider alternatives within the Ford family as well. Maybe the smaller EcoSport would be a better fit for someone prioritizing MPG over power, or see ESCAPE MPG across all years to find the best balance.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The 2.0L EcoBoost engine delivers its power smoothly, but it is easy to use more throttle than necessary, especially when getting up to speed on freeway on-ramps. Gentle acceleration will keep the turbocharger from using more fuel.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can optimize fuel efficiency, particularly on long drives. However, avoid using cruise control in hilly terrain, as the transmission may downshift frequently, negating any potential fuel savings.

Minimize idling. Excessive idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle. If you anticipate stopping for more than a minute, such as at a long traffic light or when waiting for someone, turn off the engine. The Escape’s modern starter is designed for frequent starts and stops.