We video review the all-new 2021 Ford Escape ST-Line X

Ford’s SUV releases for 2020 have been limited to two, but those two SUVs are real firecrackers. This one – the Escape – is in its fourth generation and boasts an impressive line-up of three models currently with two plug-in electric hybrids on the way. 

The gen four Escape is a far cry from the original boxy adventure SUV. This one is just as capable, if not more so, but its radically different styling cues set it well apart from the overtly North American designs of years’ past. The new Escape design really brings the mid-sized SUV into the Fords-of-the-future family, integrating it seamlessly into the passenger car/SUV line-up with strongly organic lines and an appreciation of internal space or passengers and cargo alike. 

In terms of driveability, the ST-Line X blends great aesthetics with impressive performance from the extremely smooth and capable 2-litre GDTI turbo-petrol engine, well supported by the sports tuned suspension. 

The ST-Line was once used to describe a sporty ‘look’ and that is as far as it went. With the current Ford product, ST-Line now integrates sporty appearance – body kits, spoilers, diffusers, designer alloy wheels and so forth – with sporty performance – 183kW and 387Nm of torque, and in this case, AWD ability.   

Equipped with FordPass Connect – an interface between the driver and the vehicle and vehicle service providers using a cellular phone app – the Escape is a shining example of Ford’s 21st century technology. As well as FordPass Connect, Escape features the ultra-refined, proprietary SYNC3 voice activated infotainment system, an extraordinarily ‘clean’ set of cameras front and rear, and the sophisticated drive systems of an electronic 8-speed automatic and electronic drive selection system allowing for normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery and rock/snow modes. 

The Escape lives up to its name as an excellent 9 to 5 daily grind vehicle and a comfortable way to get away from the maddening crowds at the weekends.

For more information go to www.ford.co.nz/suv/escape/