What engine does the Ford Escape use?

The Ford Escape uses multiple engines depending on the model year and trim: a pair of turbocharged gasoline engines plus hybrid options, including a plug-in hybrid variant built on the same hybrid platform.

Gasoline engine options

The following paragraphs describe the two primary gasoline powertrains available in recent Escape models.

• 1.5-liter EcoBoost turbocharged inline-3: produces about 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine is commonly found on lower to mid-range trims and prioritizes efficiency.


• 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharged inline-4: delivers around 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, typically paired with an eight-speed automatic and available with all-wheel drive on select trims. This option targets stronger performance.

Engine output and available drivetrains can vary by model year and market, so check the exact specs for the trim you’re considering.

Hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains

The Escape’s electrified lineup adds a pair of powertrains that pair a gas engine with electric motors for efficiency and, in the plug-in variant, a substantial electric range.

• Hybrid (HEV): 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle inline-4 paired with one or more electric motors to form a combined system around 200 horsepower. It uses a traditional automatic-style transmission (often an electronically controlled CVT) and does not require external charging.


• Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): the same 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine plus a larger battery and electric motor, delivering a total system output near 210 horsepower with an EPA-estimated electric range in the mid- to high‑30s miles. External charging is used to maximize electric driving, after which the system seamlessly continues as a hybrid.

Electric-range figures and total horsepower can vary by year and trim level, so consult the latest EPA estimates or dealer specifications for the exact numbers.

Summary

In short, the Ford Escape offers a diversified engine lineup: a 1.5L EcoBoost and a 2.0L EcoBoost for traditional gasoline driving, plus Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid variants built around a 2.5L Atkinson-cycle engine paired with electric motors. Buyers can choose based on a balance of performance, fuel economy, and, for the PHEV, electric-only driving capability.

Does the Ford Escape have a Toyota engine?

Ford maintains that Ford received no technical assistance from Toyota in developing the hybrid powertrain, but that some hybrid engine technologies developed by Ford independently were found to be similar to technologies previously patented by Toyota, so licenses were obtained.

Which Ford escapes to stay away from?

You should avoid Ford Escapes from the 2008, 2013, 2014, and 2016 model years due to significant problems with transmissions, power steering, and electrical systems. Other model years to approach with caution include 2017 for brake and engine issues, 2009 for engine and handling problems, and the 2021-2024 models for potential electrical, fuel system, and other widespread recalls. 
Model years to avoid

• 2008: This model year had more complaints than any other in its generation, with major issues related to its transmission, power steering, and engine. 
• 2009: Continued many of the problems from the previous year, including engine and handling complaints. 
• 2013: Had 16 recalls from the NHTSA, including problems with its electronic systems, and significant mechanical issues like leaks and faulty catalytic converters. 
• 2014: Suffered from severe transmission problems, from minor issues to complete shutdowns. It also had power steering failures, recalls, and other mechanical problems. 
• 2016: Faced a recurrence of the transmission issues from the 2014 model, along with power steering failures and noisy, hard-to-press brakes. 
• 2017: Continued to have the loud brake issues from the previous year and added engine problems where the engine would stumble or stutter. 

Other years to be cautious about

• 2015-2019: While not as problematic as the years above, these models were part of the same generation with a high number of complaints. The EcoBoost engines in some of these years had head gasket issues. 
• 2021-2024: These newer models have had a high number of recalls, including issues with the fuel system, electrical system, and doors. Some 2024 models were also predicted to be less reliable than average. 

Recommendations

• For the most reliable models, look for the 2016 Ford Escape or the newer 2020-2022 models, though the newer models may have higher price tags. 
• If buying a used Escape, get a professional inspection before purchasing, and check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to see if it falls under any recalls. 

What Ford engine to stay away from?

Ford engines to avoid include the 6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesels, which had numerous issues like EGR cooler failures and injector problems, and the 5.4L Triton V8 known for spark plug and timing chain problems. Other engines to be cautious of are the 3.8L V6 due to head gasket failures and certain EcoBoost engines, especially early 1.0L and 1.6L models, which have faced issues like premature timing belt wear and overheating. 
You can watch this video to learn about some of the worst Ford engines ever made: 59sCar WisdomsYouTube · May 2, 2025
Engines with high failure rates 

• 6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesel engines: These engines (2003-2007 and 2008-2010, respectively) are notorious for expensive problems, including head gasket failures, injector issues, and turbocharger failures. 
• 5.4L Triton V8: This engine (1997-2010) is infamous for spark plugs breaking during removal and cam phaser/timing chain issues. 
• 3.8L SX V6: From 1982 to 2008, this engine had issues with weak head bolts causing head gasket failures, and early versions were prone to coolant leaks. 

This video discusses the 5.4L Triton V8 in detail: 53sSeats & WheelsYouTube · Aug 10, 2025
Problematic EcoBoost engines

• 1.0L EcoBoost (early versions): Early models used a rubber timing belt in hot engine oil, which could degrade and clog the oil pickup, leading to oil starvation and engine damage. 
• 1.6L EcoBoost: This engine has been associated with overheating and coolant leaks. 
• 3.5L EcoBoost: Problems can include carbon buildup, premature timing chain wear, and water pump failures. 
• 2.7L EcoBoost: Early models (around 2016-2017) experienced issues with defective valve guides, excessive oil consumption, and leaking plastic oil pans. 

You can watch this video for more information about EcoBoost engine issues: 1mExoticCar PlayPlaceYouTube · Nov 15, 2025

What type of engine is in a Ford Escape?

2024 Ford Escape Horsepower

Engine	1.5L EcoBoost I3	Plug-in hybrid 2.5L Atkinson-cycle I4
Horsepower	180 HP	210 total HP
Torque	199 lb.-ft.	155 lb.-ft.