https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/508c4eab-461a-4500-819f-9e3562ef5cfd/
I’m thinking about trading my 2019 Mazda CX-5 for a 2021 Ford Escape. I’ve had the Mazda for two years, but it just wasn’t what I hoped for in terms of driving experience, although it’s been the most reliable car I’ve ever owned. I know nothing about Ford, so this would be my first one. Should I take a look at this Escape or keep looking? Any advice is appreciated!
My wife has a Mazda. It’s been in the shop for almost a month now, under warranty for a cracked cylinder head. I just bought my 3rd Ford, a 2023 Escape ST Line, and I love it. I think you should go for it. I used to think Mazda was great too, but after this ordeal with my wife’s car, I’m done with them. The service has been terrible, and I’m trying to get her to ditch the Mazda for something else.
@Teo
I really hope my 19 doesn’t have that problem, but the jerky transmission is starting to annoy me.
Chen said:
@Teo
I really hope my 19 doesn’t have that problem, but the jerky transmission is starting to annoy me.
I agree with NRX. I have a 2020 Titanium with 58k miles and it’s been solid. Features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist are great. The Android Auto (for me) and CarPlay (for my wife) are also fantastic. The AT&T mobile plan is something I could do without, but it’s not a big deal. I’ve found that using premium gas is best for the 2.0 engine, especially in California with its gas formulations.
What didn’t you like about the Mazda?
Renny said:
What didn’t you like about the Mazda?
The steering is too heavy, the fuel economy is poor (only about 20-21 mpg), no touchscreen (I thought I could deal with it, but it’s tough to use Android Auto), the driving aids are basic (just vibrations if you cross a line, no lane centering), and there’s no digital speedometer or panoramic roof.
@Chen
Your fuel mileage might improve depending on your driving habits. If you do a lot of stop-and-go driving or have a heavy foot, the Escape may not offer much better mpg. It’s not as reliable as the Mazda. Ford also recommends regular transmission fluid changes to avoid failure. The 2.0 engine is fun and more reliable than the 1.5, but I wouldn’t consider any Ford Escape reliable long-term. I drive a 2023 with the 2.0 and enjoy it because I mostly drive long trips for work. I also got an extended warranty for 7 years/125k miles since I expect the transmission to fail before then.
Would a newer CX-5 have the features you’re looking for? You mentioned a 2019 model—would the 2024 offer more? Ford is decent, but Mazda has made significant improvements. I’d recommend sticking with Mazda, especially since Ford has a lot of recalls lately. Japanese cars are way more reliable than American ones, so for longevity, stay Japanese.
@Chen
Unfortunately, the newer CX-5 models still don’t have the tech upgrades I’m looking for. All the reviews said the latest Mazda CX-5 isn’t great for tech, and the driving aids are still not impressive.
Don’t do it.
Vesper said:
Don’t do it.
Why? Can you explain more?
Vesper said:
Don’t do it.
Why? Can you explain more?
A quick Google search will give you all the info you need.
Emlyn said:
Vesper said:
Don’t do it.
Why? Can you explain more?
A quick Google search will give you all the info you need.
I’ve owned several Ford Escapes, and none of them have had major issues. I’ve owned a 2020 and 2023, my mom’s had a 2019, 2021, and now a 2023, and my grandpa has a 2022. The only problem I’ve had was with the AWD module on my 2020 at 16k miles. Why do you think they’re all bad?
@Emlyn
I didn’t say all Escapes are bad. I just gave my opinion. If you’re asking for advice, I’d say don’t get an Escape because Ford has had a lot of quality issues recently. Look for something else.
@Vesper
You didn’t really explain anything. Just saying ‘don’t do it’ doesn’t help anyone. You’ve got to back it up with reasons.
Noor said:
@Vesper
You didn’t really explain anything. Just saying ‘don’t do it’ doesn’t help anyone. You’ve got to back it up with reasons.
If you read above, I gave my opinion clearly. To the OP, just don’t get an Escape. Ford has had a lot of quality issues. Find another option.
@Vesper
The 2020 models and newer have been reliable, with just a few minor issues. The earlier models, like the 2013-2019, did have more problems with coolant intrusion and transmission failures, but not all of them were bad. Hundreds of thousands were made, so there were bound to be some problems.
@Vesper
Sounds like you’re just frustrated with Ford in general.
I have a 2020 Escape for my daily work vehicle, and I hate it. I’ve owned a lot of cars over the years, and this one is by far the worst. It’s the 2.0 EcoBoost with an 8-speed transmission. The driver’s seat is uncomfortable, the way it shifts and accelerates bothers me, and no matter what I do, I can’t get comfortable. The visibility out the windows is poor, and the rain on the highway makes the side mirrors unusable. It handles well, but it rides very stiff and bounces over bumps. Honestly, my personal car is a 2000 CR-V, and I enjoy driving it more than the Escape.
@Jesse
Honestly, save your money and get a used Toyota or Honda SUV. They’ll be more reliable in the long run.