Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2013 Ford Escape EcoBoost. Was this compact SUV a game-changer, or did it fall short of the hype? Buckle up as we explore its engine, performance, interior, technology, and overall value to help you decide if it’s a worthy choice, especially if you're considering a used one. Let's get started!

Engine and Performance: A Zippy Powertrain

Let's kick things off under the hood. The 2013 Ford Escape EcoBoost came with a couple of engine options, but the star of the show was undoubtedly the EcoBoost. We're talking about either a 1.6-liter or a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. These engines were designed to offer a balance of power and fuel efficiency, and for the most part, they delivered.

The 1.6-liter EcoBoost was the base engine, and it produced around 178 horsepower. While it might not sound like a ton, it was more than adequate for daily driving. The turbocharger gave it a nice boost of torque, making it feel peppy and responsive around town. Overtaking on the highway required a bit of planning, but overall, it was a solid performer. Now, if you wanted something with a bit more punch, the 2.0-liter EcoBoost was the way to go. This engine cranked out around 240 horsepower, making the Escape feel significantly quicker. Acceleration was brisk, and it had no problem merging onto the freeway or passing other cars. It was the engine to have if you enjoyed a more spirited driving experience. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, which was generally smooth and responsive. Some owners have reported occasional jerky shifts, but overall, it was a reliable unit.

Fuel economy was another selling point of the EcoBoost engines. The 1.6-liter was rated at around 23 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the 2.0-liter was rated at around 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. Real-world mileage could vary depending on driving habits and conditions, but these numbers were competitive for the class. One thing to keep in mind is that the EcoBoost engines could be a bit sensitive to fuel quality. Using premium fuel could potentially improve performance and fuel economy, but it wasn't required. Regular unleaded was perfectly acceptable, but it's something to consider if you're looking to get the most out of your engine. Overall, the engine and performance of the 2013 Ford Escape EcoBoost were definite highlights. The turbocharged engines provided a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it a fun and practical choice for daily driving.

Interior and Comfort: A Mixed Bag

Moving inside, the interior of the 2013 Ford Escape was a bit of a mixed bag. On the one hand, it had a modern and stylish design, with a well-laid-out dashboard and comfortable seats. On the other hand, some of the materials felt a bit cheap, and the overall fit and finish could have been better.

The front seats were generally comfortable, even on long trips. They offered decent support, and there was enough room for both the driver and passenger to stretch out. The rear seats were a bit tighter, especially for taller adults. Legroom could be limited, and the sloping roofline could make headroom a bit cramped. The cargo area was a decent size, with enough room for groceries, luggage, or other gear. The rear seats could also be folded down to create even more space, although they didn't fold completely flat.

One of the downsides of the interior was the quality of some of the materials. The plastics on the dashboard and door panels felt hard and cheap, and they didn't give the Escape a premium feel. The fit and finish could also be inconsistent, with some panels not lining up perfectly. On the plus side, the Escape did offer a decent amount of technology. Higher trim levels came with features like a touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, and a rearview camera. However, the infotainment system could be a bit clunky and slow to respond, and it wasn't as user-friendly as some of the competition.

In terms of noise, the Escape was relatively quiet on the highway, with minimal wind and road noise. However, the engine could be a bit loud under hard acceleration, especially with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost. Overall, the interior and comfort of the 2013 Ford Escape were a mixed bag. It had a stylish design and comfortable seats, but the cheap materials and clunky technology were drawbacks. If you're considering a used Escape, be sure to check the interior carefully for any signs of wear and tear. Also, keep in mind that the higher trim levels offer more features and a slightly nicer interior.

Technology and Features: Infotainment and Gadgets

When it comes to technology, the 2013 Ford Escape EcoBoost brought a decent array of features to the table, though some aspects have aged a bit. Let's break it down. The centerpiece of the tech was Ford's MyFord Touch infotainment system. This system featured a touchscreen display that controlled various functions like audio, climate, and navigation. While it looked modern at the time, MyFord Touch was known for being somewhat slow and complicated to use. Many users found the interface confusing and the system prone to glitches. Voice control was also available, but it wasn't always accurate or reliable.

On the plus side, the Escape did offer a decent selection of connectivity options. It had Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, as well as USB ports for connecting devices. Higher trim levels also came with features like a premium Sony audio system, which sounded pretty good. Navigation was available as an option, but the maps could be outdated, and the system wasn't as intuitive as Google Maps or Apple Maps. In terms of safety technology, the Escape offered features like a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. These features were helpful for improving visibility and avoiding accidents, but they weren't standard on all trim levels.

One cool feature that the 2013 Escape offered was the hands-free power liftgate. This allowed you to open the liftgate by simply waving your foot under the rear bumper, which was convenient when your hands were full. Overall, the technology and features of the 2013 Ford Escape EcoBoost were a mixed bag. While it offered some innovative features like the hands-free liftgate, the MyFord Touch system was a major drawback. If you're considering a used Escape, be sure to test out the infotainment system to see if you can live with its quirks. Also, keep in mind that some of the technology may be outdated compared to newer vehicles.

Reliability and Common Issues: What to Watch Out For

Reliability is a key consideration when buying any used car, and the 2013 Ford Escape EcoBoost is no exception. While it wasn't a terrible car in terms of reliability, it did have some common issues that you should be aware of.

One of the most common problems with the 2013 Escape EcoBoost was related to the engine. Some owners reported issues with the turbocharger, including failures and leaks. This could lead to reduced performance and potentially expensive repairs. Another engine-related issue was coolant leaks. The coolant reservoir could crack, leading to leaks and potential engine overheating.

In addition to engine problems, the 2013 Escape also had some issues with the transmission. Some owners reported rough shifting, slipping, and even complete transmission failure. These problems were more common in the earlier production years. The MyFord Touch infotainment system was also a source of frustration for many owners. It was known for being slow, buggy, and unreliable. Software updates were released to address some of these issues, but they didn't always fix the underlying problems.

Other common problems with the 2013 Escape included issues with the power windows, door locks, and air conditioning. Some owners also reported problems with the brakes, including premature wear and noise. To minimize the risk of buying a lemon, it's important to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. They can check for any signs of these common problems and give you an idea of the car's overall condition. It's also a good idea to check the car's maintenance history to see if it has been properly maintained. Regular oil changes, fluid flushes, and other maintenance tasks can help to prevent problems down the road. Overall, the 2013 Ford Escape EcoBoost had some reliability issues that you should be aware of. By doing your research and getting a pre-purchase inspection, you can minimize the risk of buying a car with major problems.

Overall Value: Is It Worth Buying Used?

So, after taking a look at the engine, interior, technology, and reliability of the 2013 Ford Escape EcoBoost, the big question is: is it worth buying used? The answer, as with most used cars, is it depends.

On the one hand, the 2013 Escape EcoBoost offers a lot of appealing features. The EcoBoost engines provide a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it a fun and practical choice for daily driving. It also has a stylish design and available features like a hands-free liftgate. However, the 2013 Escape also has some drawbacks. The interior materials can feel cheap, the MyFord Touch infotainment system can be frustrating to use, and it has some known reliability issues.

Ultimately, whether or not the 2013 Ford Escape EcoBoost is worth buying used depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you're looking for a stylish and fuel-efficient SUV and you're willing to overlook some of its flaws, it could be a good option. However, if you prioritize reliability and a user-friendly infotainment system, you may want to consider other alternatives. Before making a decision, be sure to do your research, get a pre-purchase inspection, and test drive the car to see if it's a good fit for you. Also, compare prices and features with other similar SUVs to make sure you're getting the best value for your money.

Conclusion

The 2013 Ford Escape EcoBoost had its pros and cons. The zippy EcoBoost engine, decent fuel economy, and stylish design were definite highlights. However, the interior quality, frustrating infotainment system, and potential reliability issues were drawbacks to consider. If you're in the market for a used compact SUV, the 2013 Escape EcoBoost is worth a look, but be sure to do your homework and weigh the pros and cons carefully. Happy car hunting!