Which Ford Escape is all-wheel drive?

All-wheel drive is available on most Ford Escape models, with some base configurations offered in front-wheel drive only. If AWD is your priority, look for higher trims or powertrains that include Intelligent AWD or eAWD, particularly in the Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid versions.

AWD availability by powertrain

The following guide shows how AWD is typically paired with the Escape’s different powertrains across recent model years.

• S (gasoline): FWD is standard; AWD is available as an option.


• SE (gasoline): AWD is available; engine options include 1.5L EcoBoost or 2.0L EcoBoost.


• SEL (gasoline): AWD is available; similar engine options as SE/Titanium.


• Titanium (gasoline): AWD is available; top-trim configurations often include AWD.


• Escape Hybrid (HEV): AWD/eAWD is available on most trims.


• Escape Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): AWD/eAWD is available across multiple trims.

Note: Drivetrain availability can vary by model year and region. Always verify on the window sticker or Ford’s official configurator for a specific vehicle.

Trims and engines commonly paired with AWD

To help narrow your search, these are the configurations most often found with AWD across recent Escapes.

• Gasoline engines: 1.5L EcoBoost and 2.0L EcoBoost — AWD available on SE, SEL, and Titanium; S may require upgrading to AWD.


• Hybrid: Escape Hybrid — eAWD is available across several trims (often standard or widely offered).


• Plug-in Hybrid: Escape PHEV — eAWD is available on multiple trims; electric range varies by year.

If you’re shopping used or counting on a specific feature set, confirm the drivetrain in the listing or with a dealer before purchase.

How to verify AWD on a Ford Escape

Use these steps to confirm whether a particular Escape has all-wheel drive.

• Check the window sticker or listing for “AWD” or “Intelligent AWD” in the drivetrain/option section.


• Look for an AWD badge on the rear of the vehicle or on the gauges when you inspect the interior options.


• Use the vehicle’s VIN with Ford’s official resources or a trusted decoder to verify the drivetrain configuration.


• During a test drive, note how the vehicle engages power to the rear wheels, especially in slippery or low-traction conditions.

For new purchases, a dealer can confirm the exact drivetrain configuration you’re selecting, and Ford’s online configurator will reflect the AWD option for your chosen powertrain and trim.

Summary

In Ford’s Escape lineup, all-wheel drive is widely available but not universal. If AWD is important to you, focus on SE, SEL, and Titanium trims with gasoline engines, or opt for the Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid variants that commonly offer AWD/eAWD. Always verify the drivetrain on the window sticker or through Ford’s configurator to ensure you’re getting the AWD setup you want. With AWD, the Escape gains enhanced traction and stability across varying driving conditions.

How to tell if a Ford Escape is AWD?

You can tell if a Ford Escape is AWD by looking under the vehicle for a rear differential and driveshaft, using a VIN decoder online, or checking the dashboard's "AWD" indicator light during startup. Another clue is to look for an AWD badge on the back of the vehicle.
 
Visual inspection

• Look underneath the vehicle: If you see a rear differential (a pumpkin-shaped component) with a driveshaft connecting to the rear wheels, it is an AWD model. Front-wheel-drive (FWD) models will not have these components in the rear. 
• Check for badges: Some AWD models have a specific "AWD" or "4WD" badge on the rear hatch. 

Digital and electronic checks

• Use a VIN decoder: Enter your vehicle's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) into an online decoder, such as the one provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which will provide the vehicle's specifications, including drivetrain information. 
• Check the dashboard: When you start the car, look for an "AWD" or similar indicator light on the dashboard when the system initializes. 

This video shows how to check if a car is 2WD or 4WD by looking at the drive axles: 58sMake It Easy MechanicYouTube · Mar 11, 2020
Additional methods

• Check parts websites: Inputting your VIN on parts websites, like parts.ford.com, can also reveal the vehicle's drivetrain. 
• Examine the rear seats: A flat rear floor pan can indicate FWD, while a slight hump for the driveshaft might suggest AWD or 4WD. 

Is the 2019 Ford Escape 4wd or AWD?

The 2019 Ford Escape is available with both all-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD), depending on the trim level and engine. While front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard on some models, other trims offer AWD or 4WD as an option or standard. For example, the SE and SEL models have FWD standard with AWD optional, while the Titanium model offers FWD or AWD. 

• Standard Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard on the base Escape S model. 
• Optional/Standard Drivetrain:
  • The SE and SEL trims come with standard FWD but offer an optional all-wheel drive system. 
  • The Titanium trim offers either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. 
• Intelligent 4WD: The "Intelligent 4WD" system is an option on some models and can disable the rear driveline when not needed to improve efficiency. 

Which Ford Escape has AWD?

All-wheel drive is standard on select Ford Escape trim levels! All-wheel drive train is standard on the ST-Line, ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite, and Platinum trim levels and optional on the Active trim.

Is the Ford Escape AWD always on?

Can I manually control the AWD system in my Ford vehicle? Ford's Intelligent AWD system works automatically, meaning you don't need to manually engage it.