The 2024 Ford Escape AWD with the 1.5L 3-cylinder engine gets 28 MPG combined, placing it well for crossover buyers who want good gas mileage and all-weather grip. This isn’t a hybrid, and it focuses on reasonable fuel consumption while still providing the benefits of a compact SUV with all-wheel drive.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates fuel economy at 26 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. This difference reflects the engine’s design and the 8-speed automatic transmission’s programming. Although it’s a three-cylinder, the 1.5L EcoBoost engine delivers decent low-end torque thanks to turbocharging, making it responsive enough for city driving. The Escape’s stop/start system, shuts down the engine at idle, conserving fuel in urban settings, though it’s not the smoothest system available. On the highway, the 8-speed transmission allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs, maximizing fuel efficiency on longer trips. Drivers who spend most of their time on the highway will likely see numbers close to, or even slightly exceeding, the 32 MPG estimate, but stop-and-go traffic will reduce that benefit.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost at $1,550 for the 2024 Ford Escape AWD 1.5L 3-cylinder. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices. Individual costs will vary based on driving habits and local fuel costs, providing a standardized starting point. Changes in gasoline prices can significantly affect this annual cost. For example, a sustained increase of $0.50 per gallon would noticeably increase the annual cost. Buyers should use this figure as a starting point and adjust for their own circumstances.

Real-world expectations

While EPA estimates are a useful benchmark, actual fuel economy often varies depending on driving style, road conditions, and even outside temperature. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and long periods of idling can all hurt fuel consumption. Drivers in hilly areas or who often carry heavy loads may also see lower MPG numbers. However, smooth, consistent driving at moderate speeds will likely produce results closer to the EPA’s estimates, or possibly even better. Wind resistance and proper tire inflation also play a role. The Escape buyer should remember the turbocharger needs fuel to produce power; hard acceleration lowers fuel economy considerably.

How it compares

The 2024 Ford Escape AWD 1.5L 3-cylinder’s fuel economy compares well to its competitors. The Toyota RAV4 AWD, for example, gets about 30 MPG combined. The Honda CR-V AWD has similar figures. The Mazda CX-5, often praised for its driving, gets around 26 MPG combined with AWD. These comparisons are important because buyers in this segment often cross-shop based on price, features, and fuel efficiency. The Escape offers a good mix of these, making it a good choice alongside established rivals. For those considering the Escape, comparing all Ford fuel economy data is useful. You can also view ESCAPE MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Escape’s Eco driving mode. This mode adjusts throttle response and transmission shift points to emphasize fuel efficiency. While it might slightly reduce performance, it can noticeably lower fuel consumption, especially in city driving or on shorter trips.

Check your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, causing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Checking tire pressure at least once a month and inflating tires to the recommended level can improve fuel economy.

Avoid idling. Letting the engine run while stopped wastes fuel. If you expect to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. The Escape’s stop/start system helps with this in city driving.

Use cruise control on the highway. Keeping a consistent speed can improve fuel efficiency, especially on long trips. Cruise control helps minimize unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which wastes fuel. Be aware of traffic and avoid sudden speed changes, even while using cruise control.