The Ford Escape III 1.6 EcoBoost Automatic, produced from 2013 to 2016, represented a key offering in Ford’s compact SUV lineup for the North American market. Falling within the third generation of the Escape (known as the Kuga in Europe), this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency with adequate performance, appealing to buyers seeking a practical and modern crossover. It was positioned as a mid-range option, slotting between the base 2.5L naturally aspirated engine and the more powerful 2.0L EcoBoost variants. The Escape III utilized Ford’s global C-platform, shared with models like the Focus and C-Max.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Escape |
| Generation | Escape III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 EcoBoost (178 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 178 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 111.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 249 Nm @ 2500 rpm (183.65 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1596 cm3 (97.39 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.2 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Ti-VCT |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1588 kg (3500.94 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 971 l (34.29 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1920 l (67.8 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 907 kg (1999.59 lbs.) |
| Length | 4524 mm (178.11 in.) |
| Width | 1839 mm (72.4 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1905 mm (75 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2078 mm (81.81 in.) |
| Height | 1684 mm (66.3 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2690 mm (105.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1562 mm (61.5 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 201 mm (7.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/55 R17; 235/45 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Escape variant is the 1.6-liter EcoBoost inline-four cylinder engine, designated with Ford engine codes like JQDA. This engine is a member of Ford’s EcoBoost family, characterized by direct fuel injection and turbocharging. The direct injection system, coupled with variable valve timing (Ti-VCT), optimizes combustion efficiency and power delivery. The turbocharger, an integral part of the EcoBoost design, provides increased horsepower and torque without significantly increasing engine displacement. The 1.6L EcoBoost utilizes a single-scroll turbocharger. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. Paired with this engine is a six-speed automatic transmission (6F35), chosen for its smooth shifting and fuel efficiency. This transmission features a torque converter and electronically controlled shifting, adapting to driving conditions and driver input.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 EcoBoost Automatic Escape offered a comfortable and generally capable driving experience. With 178 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, though not particularly sporty. The automatic transmission, while smooth, sometimes felt hesitant during quick acceleration or overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy rather than outright performance. Compared to the 2.0L EcoBoost models, the 1.6L felt noticeably less powerful, especially when fully loaded or climbing hills. However, it provided a more refined and fuel-efficient experience than the base 2.5L engine. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributed to predictable handling, but lacked the enhanced traction of the available all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 EcoBoost Automatic was typically offered in SE and SEL trim levels. Standard features on the SE included air conditioning, a basic audio system with a USB port, power windows and locks, and a rearview camera. The SEL trim added features like alloy wheels, upgraded interior trim, a more advanced audio system, and available options such as a sunroof and leather upholstery. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on the SE and could be upgraded to leather on the SEL. Dashboard configurations were consistent across trims, featuring a central touchscreen display for infotainment functions. Optional extras included navigation, a premium sound system, and various driver-assistance technologies.
Chassis & Braking
The Escape III utilized an independent front suspension with McPherson struts and a multi-link independent rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride and reasonably controlled handling. Front brakes were ventilated discs, while rear brakes were solid discs. The braking system was equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic brake-force distribution. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear suspensions to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort and everyday usability, rather than sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Escape III for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and improved fuel economy compared to its predecessor. However, the 1.6 EcoBoost Automatic received mixed reviews. Some reviewers found the engine adequate for most driving situations, while others criticized its lack of power, particularly when compared to the 2.0L EcoBoost. Fuel economy was a strong point, consistently achieving around 26 mpg combined. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the automatic transmission and the turbocharger. Compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the Escape offered a more modern design and a more engaging driving experience, but lagged slightly in terms of overall reliability and resale value.
Legacy
The 1.6 EcoBoost engine, while not as ubiquitous as the 2.0L version, proved to be a reasonably reliable powertrain when properly maintained. The six-speed automatic transmission also demonstrated acceptable durability. In the used car market, the 1.6 EcoBoost Escape III represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and comfortable compact SUV. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for turbocharger issues and ensure that the vehicle has received regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing belt replacements. The Escape III, in general, helped solidify Ford’s position in the competitive compact SUV segment, paving the way for future generations of the popular crossover.
