The new Ford Escape has just recently come onto my radar as a next vehicle. I've watched some YT videos and like what I'm seeing. But I have a few questions. It sounds like there is a whole new powertrain for 2020. Is the 2.0T for 2020 updated from the 3G engine? My impression is that the 2.0T engine was reliable. What about the AWD system? I've been impressed with the AWD I've seen in videos, but of course those were 3G or older. Do you know what type of AWD system is used in the 4G Escape (Haldex maybe?) Is 4G AWD the same as prior generations or better? Also, what about the 8 speed transmission? Sounds like it's new also. Who developed it?

I'm hoping to drive one soon. Now sure if there are any available yet nearby. I'm not in the market to buy right now, but am trying to research and get my ducks in a row. Right now the Equinox with the 2.0T in at the top of my list. I've driven it twice and liked it a lot. Also driven the RAV4, CX5, and Tiguan. The new Escape looks to be right up my alley. The 2.0T is pretty quick for that segment of SUV.

Thanks in advance for any help.

I have a 2019 with the 2.0L engine.
The engine is really good, lots of torque for a 4cyl. I am assuming it's the same engine for 2020, so I am told.

If it's the same engine for 2020, then the Livernopis tune will still be available for it.
I have the tune and it really adds to acceleration. I am doing 6 seconds flat 0-60.

I have no idea if they are changing the 4WD system, but I like mine.

The key is to have good tires.

quote:

Originally posted by lbj:
I have a 2019 with the 2.0L engine.
The engine is really good, lots of torque for a 4cyl. I am assuming it's the same engine for 2020, so I am told.

If it's the same engine for 2020, then the Livernopis tune will still be available for it.
I have the tune and it really adds to acceleration. I am doing 6 seconds flat 0-60.

Is that the tune that is sanctioned by Ford and will not void the warranty? Or am I thinking of something else?

About the AWD system. Ford does not have the best history with their All-Wheel drive Power Transfer Units. You might find this video interesting.

We have a 2018 Escape AWD and when "Snowmaggedon" hit the NW earlier this year it handled wonderfully while I literally had cars and trucks spinning out in front of me with roads becoming cluttered.

Had it 10 months and 9000 miles, very happy so far...

We have the 2017 Escape AWD with the 1.5t and have zero complaints.

Just over 40,000 and the only issue was an exhaust sensor that was converted under warranty.

Coastal Maine gets all of the different types of snow/ ice/ slush, and my wife has no concerns driving it with all season tires.

I have no idea whether Ford approves of the Livernois tune or not.

The Escape's 4WD system is not always all wheel drive. Not sure about the coming 2020.

My 2017 and 2019 are 4WD as needed determined by sensors detecting slip.
The information display shows a map as to the wheels that are driving the car forward.

From a stop and then accelerating, the system always places traction to all 4 wheels. The map shows it.

quote:

Originally posted by lbj:

My 2017 and 2019 are 4WD as needed determined by sensors detecting slip.
The information display shows a map as to the wheels that are driving the car forward.

From a stop and then accelerating, the system always places traction to all 4 wheels. The map shows it.

Thanks. The AWD from a standstill is what I want. I have that now on my Equinoxes and like it that way. I was hoping that the Escape did that also. Hopefully the new generation still works that way.

That 2.0L engine is a real gem.

I never get on the highway and am getting 23.3 mpg lifetime.

The engine gas mileage took about 3K miles to break in.

Make sure you change PTU oil on time or early. Not sure if its same PTU as 2.7TT Fusion, if so they have had some problems. The intelligent AWD is cool. Power to all four off the line then transitions to FWD at speed or in slippage conditions.

quote:

Originally posted by lbj:
That 2.0L engine is a real gem.

I never get on the highway and am getting 23.3 mpg lifetime.

Thanks. That's good to know. My average with my V6 Equinox is 21.8 in Fuelly for 29,600 miles.

I went to drive a new Escape yesterday, but they don't expect any in until late October. I'm looking forward to driving one. The 'stop/start' can be turned off in the Escape and it has paddle shifters, neither of which the new Equinox can do or has.