The Ford Escape went through a full redesign in 2020, kicking off the fourth generation for this compact crossover.

The Ford Escape has long boasted a look that has been more high-riding hatchback than crossover SUV, and the 2020 Ford Escape’s all-new look leans into that with its more rounded body lines, sleek headlights, and other sleek design cues. Buyers seeking a touch of sportiness can move into the SE Sport Hybrid, which adds 19-inch black-painted wheels and black trim.

Inside, the new-generation Escape ushers in a sleek and modern cabin with a cleaner dash setup with fewer buttons and knobs, a rotary shifter, and a dash-top infotainment screen. The instrument panel is also thinner, enhancing the front-row knee room while its horizontal lines make the cabin look and feel wider than it is.

The 2021 Ford Escape features a wide range of powertrain options, and they start with a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder unit that delivers 180 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. The optional gasoline-only engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 250 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque. Powering the SE Hybrid and Titanium models is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor that combines for 198 hp. Rounding out the lineup is a plug-in-hybrid setup that also pairs a 2.5-liter engine and an electric motor, but it pumps out 209 hp.

With “Good” ratings in all IIHS crash tests, “Acceptable” optional headlights, and a “Superior” result in forward-collision avoidance, the 2020 Escape is an IIHS Top Safety Pick. On top of these good scores, the 2020 Escape also comes standard with plenty of advanced safety gear, including automatic emergency braking, active lane control, automatic high-beam headlights, and blind-spot monitors. Buyers can also opt for adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera. We expect these safety features and ratings to remain unchanged in the 2021 Escape.

This compact crossover will battle the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Mazda CX-5.

Check prices for the 2021 Ford Escape »

Pictured: 2020 Ford Escape