Search CarGuide.PH

October 28, 2014

Ford Philippines Enters Premium Crossover Segment with All-New 2015 Escape (w/ Brochure)


UPDATE: here is the 2015 Ford Escape vs the competition. (10/28)

Christmas came early for would-be compact crossover buyers as Ford Philippines has finally unveiled (and priced) their all-new 2015 Ford Escape. Continuing Ford’s value-for-money approach, the all-new Escape is available in two competitive variants: the 1.6 EcoBoost SE 2WD and the 2.0 EcoBoost Titanium AWD. Both models are already available for reservations at Ford dealerships nationwide with deliveries starting in January 2015.

Brought into the country as a completely built-up unit (CBU) from North America, the all-new Escape comes packing the EcoBoost engine technology as standard. In the 1.6 SE trim, it delivers 178 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 249 Nm of torque at 2,500 rpm. Meanwhile, the range-topping 2.0 Titanium rates at 240 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and a class-leading 366 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm. These engines promise to deliver outstanding fuel economy and performance through the combination of turbocharging and direct injection. Both engines are mated to a conventional 6-speed dual clutch automatic with manual override (SelectShift).



Like the Ford Focus on which it is based on, the Escape features class-leading smart features which aim to make life easier for customers. For instance, the 2.0 Titanium comes with a rear power liftgate complete with the “kick open” feature. Enabled by motion-sensing technology, a gentle kicking motion at the center of the rear bumper activates and raises the tailgate when the driver has the key fob. This allows for quick and easy access to the cargo area. The 2.0 Titanium also comes with Active Park Assist which makes the Escape the first in its class to actually park itself in a parallel space. Other outstanding features of the Escape include a panoramic glass roof, power seats, and dual zone climate control with rear vents.

In terms of safety, the 2015 Escape features dual front airbags as well as Ford’s Safety Canopy system that provides side curtain protection for the first and second row of seats. The 2.0 Titanium also has Ford’s Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) system that incorporates Ford Curve Control which automatically slows the vehicle when it’s cornering too fast and Torque Vectoring Control to help accelerate through a turn. BLIS or Blind Spot Information System is also standard on the 2.0 Titanium.



The all-new 2015 Ford Escape 1.6 SE EcoBoost is available at P 1,490,000 while the 2.0 Titanium EcoBoost goes for P 1,790,000. Happy Christmas shopping.




Press Release: Ford Philippines Launches All-New Escape

Ford Philippines today unveiled the all-new Ford Escape, the latest addition to Ford’s sport utility vehicle (SUV) line up and expanding EcoBoost vehicle offerings in the Philippines.

The all-new Escape offers a premium package that includes a sleek exterior design, stylish and refined cabin interiors, smart and safe technology, and outstanding fuel efficiency for a spirited driving experience.

Charismatic and remarkable, the all-new Escape will be brought in from North America to introduce an unmatched SUV offering in the Philippines that connects with the active lifestyles of Filipinos. Tough yet stylish, the all-new Escape builds off of Ford’s global SUV expertise and demonstrates how Ford continues to reach new levels of refinement and capability in the fast-growing SUV segment.

“We are excited to launch the all-new Escape, which further expands our unmatched lineup of SUVs and gives Filipino customers even more choice. This premium SUV features an array of smart and safe technologies, style and capability, and terrific fuel efficiency,” said Kay Hart, managing director, Ford Philippines.

Smart and Clever Capability

Full of innovative features, the all-new Escape Titanium variant makes life easier for customers.  One of these features is the hands-free liftgate.  Enabled by motion technology, a gentle kicking motion under the center of the rear bumper activates, unlocks and raises the liftgate when the driver has the Escape key fob. This allows quick and easy access to the cargo area without needing to set down packages or dig out keys. The same process closes the hatch.

Ford’s Active Park Assist is a unique innovation that makes the all-new Escape the first SUV in its segment that parks by itself.  The Escape uses an ultrasonic-based sensing system and electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) to position the vehicle for parallel parking, calculate the optimal steering angle and quickly steer the vehicle into a parking spot, taking away the stress of parallel parking from the driver.

It also comes with Intelligent Access with Push Button Start, which allows the driver to lock or unlock the driver’s door without taking the key out of a bag or pocket.  Sensors around the Escape detect the presence of the key fob and lock or unlock the door when the driver grabs the door handle. Once inside, the driver can simply push the Start button while holding down the brake pedal to start the engine.

Another is SYNC with MyFord Touch, which offers multiple ways for customers to manage and control information through voice commands, menus accessed through controls on the steering wheel, touch screens, buttons or knobs. The system’s latest look makes phone, entertainment and climate controls even easier to use.

“We pride ourselves in being innovators and segment leaders, and we believe we have put our best work in the all-new Escape. It is all about providing everyday advantages for our customers, creating an SUV that is more dynamic and capable than ever before,” added Hart.

Outstanding fuel efficiency

The all-new Escape features Ford’s renowned EcoBoost engine technology in two variants, further building Ford’s portfolio of fuel efficient vehicle offerings in the Philippines.

The 1.6L SE EcoBoost AT 4x2 delivers 178 HP of power at 5,700 rpm and 249 Nm of torque at 2,500 rpm while the 2.0L Titanium EcoBoost AT 4x4 delivers 240 HP of power at 5,500 rpm and 366 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm, each delivering outstanding fuel economy with great performance through core EcoBoost technologies of turbocharging and direct injection.

Each engine comes with specifically calibrated six-speed SelectShift® automatic transmissions, and allows drivers to manually control gear selection using a switch on the left-hand side of the shifter. The specially engineered torque converter contributes to smooth shifts, an improved driving feel, and even better fuel economy.

Engineers also installed revised gear ratios for balanced and better handling in all situations. EcoBoost engines also add twin independent variable camshaft timing to this successful recipe.

Smart and safe technologies for peace of mind

The all-new Escape has been designed to provide high levels of protection and driver support through a range of advanced safety features. Ford engineers used ultra-high strength steel in the body structure of the new Escape and specially designed ring reinforcement around the Power Panorama Roof to ensure rigidity and strength.

The SUV’s standard airbag configuration provides additional peace of mind, including Dual Front Airbags for the driver and front passenger and a Safety Canopy that provides side air curtain protection for the first and second seating rows.

The all-new Escape Titanium is equipped with Ford’s Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) system and includes Ford Curve Control, which automatically slows the vehicle when it’s cornering too fast, and Torque Vectoring Control (TVC) system to help accelerate through a turn.

Another is Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®), which displays an alert in the side mirror when a vehicle is detected entering a blind spot, promoting a safer and less stressful experience when maneuvering through parking lots or traveling in open roads.

Streamlined Style and Comfort

The shape of the Ford Escape doesn’t just look great – it’s also designed to reduce drag on the vehicle body that wind resistance produces. The sleek lines give the Escape a refined feel while the front grille gives the SUV that distinct Ford look.

Inside the vehicle, customers will experience more comfort and convenience. The interior design of the all-new Escape is modern and sophisticated, capturing the expressive design and enhanced functionality of the vehicle.

The craftsmanship emphasizes feel and touch through the use of a soft instrument panel and soft door upper roll. The Titanium variant of the all-new Escape also features a Power Panorama Roof and new full Charcoal Black leather-trimmed seats.

Additionally, road and wind noise has been significantly reduced to help deliver one of the quietest cabins in the segment. Improvements were delivered following the innovative use of elliptical acoustic mirrors to measure exterior elements that can influence the noise and vibration inside the car.

“Function follows form in the all-new Escape. The muscular, defined exterior shape is complemented by a dynamic, spacious interior featuring a new level of craftsmanship, technology, and a higher quality feel,” said Hart.

The all-new Escape will be available for test drives at Ford dealerships in Metro Manila starting next month, with Ford taking pre-order bookings at the following price points:
  • All-New Ford Escape 1.6L SE EcoBoost AT: PhP 1,490,000.
  • All-New Ford Escape 2.0L Titanium EcoBoost AT: PhP 1,790,000
The two variants will be available in six colors:
  • Ingot Silver, Oxford White, and Tuxedo Black all paired with Charcoal Black interiors for the 1.6L SE Escape
  • White Platinum, Magnetic Metallic, and Tuxedo Black all paired with Charcoal Black interiors; and Sunset Red paired with Medium Light Stone interiors for the 2.0L Titanium Escape
Customer deliveries will start in January 2015.

29 comments:

  1. Hi Uly,

    I'm just curious if it really is a DCT as you have mentioned. Is DCT the same as 6 speed select shift automatic transmission in Ford's marketing language?

    Cheers

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. DCT = Select Shift. Wanted to use a more generic term for dual clutch transmission.

      Delete
    2. Thanks for the quick reply. I was hoping it was not as I currently own a ford equipped with a DCT and I can no longer live with its unique character. Looking for a CUV with a traditional AT to replace it.

      Cheers

      Delete
    3. @Uly, all Escapes use the torque converter SelectShift automatic.
      It's the PowerShift that's a DCT. -AM

      Delete
  2. Reposting (it's not showing)
    @Uly, @Anonymous reader, all Ford Escapes use the 6-speed SelectShift (torque converter) automatic.
    It's the PowerShift that's a DCT.
    -AM

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hmmm...I've been relying on the info given to me by Ford Philippines personnel. Will double-check and correct this if necessary. Thanks for pointing it out.

      Delete
  3. yes, The new ford scape is not a dual clutch. it shares the same 6-speed Torque converter tranny as the new Fusion. You can clearly see it by looking at the Tranny - there's no Black covered ECM module attached to it.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That's great news. I've always hated the dual clutch transmission and the questionable reliability doesn't help either. Let's stick with the tried and tested torque converter transmission.

      Delete
  4. Is it a 7 seater n diesel engine?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It's a 5-seater and the North American-built Escape (CBU) is only available with gasoline engines. A 178hp 1.6 EcoBoost for the 4x2 SE and a 240hp 2.0 EcoBoost for the 4WD Titanium model. EcoBoost means it has direct injection and is turbocharged. Brochure with specs can be viewed above (click to enlarge).
      -AM

      Delete
  5. Tnx.i had an everest 3 weeks ago.i'll wait the model of everest on 2016.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. hi guys! what's the latest news about the all new Ford Everest? pls, update me. if, there's any. thanx

      Delete
    2. The New Everest is expected to have its global debut next month.
      I read that the actual production in the Thai plant (that's where we get our ASEAN Fords) begins early 2015.
      -AM

      Delete
  6. you had an everest 3 weeks ago, then you'll wait for the 2016 model.what the F!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Poser yan. Di yan nakabili ng everest. Pustahan.

      Delete
    2. nahihibang yan tao na yan, 2015 Everest is in production stage pala lang. paano sya nakabili? pwee.. para ka si nog-nog liar..

      Delete
    3. Imagined time travel to 2016, so sino next president?

      Delete
    4. Poser nga yan..nakabili daw ng everest pero hihintayin parin nya yung 2016 na everest..

      O di kaya, collector ng everest...LOL!

      Parang yung nagsabi din na may montero sya, tpos bibili pa daw ng mu-x..sa montero pa lang nakuha mo na yung lesson mo e (buyer's remorse) at isa pa,pareho lg ang silbi ng mu-x at montero..isang matinding katangahan na yan..kung totoong may pera ka at may montero ka na, iiwasan mo na ang mga sasakyan tulad ng montero..ay naku ano ba yan..hindi kasing tanga nyo ang ibang tao dito!...kaya huwag kayo masyadong magyabang dito!

      Delete
  7. How about the diesel ecosport

    ReplyDelete
  8. WTF....know im getting crazy

    What is better forester or this?"

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sounds like a good comparo, huh?

      Delete
    2. yeah!! thanks for the reply

      i like the design and technology of the escape
      but those x-mode and symmetrical awd with the horizontally opposed engine
      they almost has the same price
      so what do you think is the good one?

      Delete
  9. Ito na lang naman uli siguro, galit ako sa santa fe DM!! tuwing umaga sa daang hari karerahan at payabangan sa tulin ng mga bagong suv! baka sakali ito lang na suv ang tatalo sa santé fe!

    ReplyDelete
  10. These new Ford Escape Ecoboost engines were recalled during it's first year of release in 2012. Nasusunog pag nag overheat ang engine! yikes!

    ReplyDelete
  11. FORD==Fix Or Repair DailyEven Americans don't buy these unreliable cr4p anymore, only farmers and rural folk buy those Ford trucks in the US. Also, turbocharged gasoline engines are notorious gas guzzlers, ask Subaru owners. Just compare the real-world mileage of a CX-5 and a Forester XT. No one really needs 240hp in an SUV in this country where speed limits are 60kph in the city and 100kmh in most highways. But if you wanna burn away your hard-earned money in fuel bills then by all means get this Escape or the Forester XT.P.S. Nice to see AM from M*ti*ncars is still an obvious Ford fanboy, LOL. Musta AM, nakabili ka na ba ng pangarap mong Ford Mustang with non-independent rear suspension? Ahehehe. Palitan mo na yang Corolla ng family mo, luma na yan di ba. See yah around, classic Google copy&paste instant expert.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The Ford Escape was the 2nd best selling SUV in North America in 2014.

      Delete
  12. Hi. I am of torn between the CRV 2.0 S Cruiser Limited Edition and the upcoming Ford 1.6 Ford Escape Ecoboost. Been reading comments and reviews and I can't seem to choose between the two. I like the Ford for it's boxy, sporty shape, as compared to the mini-van like design of the Honda Cruiser. As for performance, fuel efficiency and safety, I think the two are just equal. I hope you guys could help me make up my mind. Thanks and Merry Christmas!

    ReplyDelete
  13. How will you compare overall performance, amenities of this new Ford escape vis-a-vis Subaru XT?

    ReplyDelete
  14. search ford escape fire recall 2013 -2015 . youll see tons of news

    ReplyDelete

Feel free to comment or share your views. Comments that are derogatory and/or spam will not be tolerated. We reserve the right to moderate and/or remove comments.