Hey guys! Let's dive deep into a review of the 2019 Ford Escape SEL AWD. This compact SUV quickly became a popular choice for families and individuals alike, mainly because of its blend of practicality, comfort, and available all-wheel drive. We will explore everything you need to know about this model, from its performance and features to its pros and cons, helping you decide if it's the right fit for your needs. Get ready to have all your questions answered!

Performance and Driving Experience

First off, let's talk about the heart of the matter – the performance and driving experience of the 2019 Ford Escape SEL AWD. The SEL trim comes with a 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine, which, in most configurations, delivers a respectable 179 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. While it isn't a powerhouse, this engine provides adequate acceleration for city driving and highway cruising. You'll find it's zippy enough to merge into traffic and tackle everyday commutes without feeling sluggish. Now, the AWD (All-Wheel Drive) is a significant upgrade, particularly if you live in an area with inclement weather. It provides increased traction and stability, making driving in snow, rain, or on gravel roads feel much more secure. The system can intelligently distribute power between the front and rear wheels, helping to prevent wheel slip and maintain control.

Another key aspect of the driving experience is the transmission. The 2019 Escape SEL AWD typically features a six-speed automatic transmission. This transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, contributing to a comfortable ride. The steering is nicely weighted, offering good feedback and making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, which is a major bonus for city driving. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road well. You'll find that the Escape SEL AWD provides a pleasant ride quality, making it suitable for both short trips and longer journeys. Fuel economy is another factor to consider. The 1.5-liter engine is reasonably efficient, with the EPA rating the AWD model at around 26 mpg combined. Of course, your actual mileage may vary depending on your driving habits and road conditions, but it's a competitive figure for its class. The 2019 Ford Escape SEL AWD handles well on various road surfaces, with responsive steering and a suspension setup that balances comfort and control. This makes it enjoyable to drive in both urban and rural environments. The all-wheel-drive system provides added confidence, especially in challenging weather conditions, ensuring that the vehicle remains stable and predictable. For those who prioritize a comfortable and practical driving experience, the Escape SEL AWD delivers a well-rounded performance.

Interior and Features

Moving inside the 2019 Ford Escape SEL AWD, you'll discover a well-designed and functional cabin. The SEL trim offers a range of features aimed at enhancing comfort, convenience, and technology. The interior materials are generally of good quality, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on longer drives. The driver's seat often includes power adjustments, providing a customizable driving position.

One of the standout features is the user-friendly infotainment system. The 2019 model often comes with Ford's SYNC 3 system, which includes a touchscreen display, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and various connectivity options. The system is intuitive to use, with clear graphics and responsive controls. You can easily access navigation, music, and other apps. The SEL trim also includes a suite of driver-assistance features, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. These features add an extra layer of safety and can help to prevent accidents. The cabin provides ample space for passengers, with plenty of headroom and legroom in both the front and rear seats. The rear seats can also be folded down to expand the cargo area, making it easy to transport larger items. The cargo space is generous, offering plenty of room for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. The 2019 Ford Escape SEL AWD excels in its interior design, providing a comfortable and well-equipped environment for both drivers and passengers. The inclusion of modern technology and safety features enhances the overall driving experience. Furthermore, the versatile cargo space makes the Escape practical for a variety of needs. The interior design reflects Ford's commitment to creating user-friendly and functional vehicles. The infotainment system is seamlessly integrated, offering easy access to various features and connectivity options. The attention to detail in the interior design creates a pleasant and enjoyable environment.

Exterior Design and Styling

On the outside, the 2019 Ford Escape SEL AWD boasts a sleek and modern design. It's a compact SUV with a stylish profile and well-defined lines. The exterior design focuses on a balance of aesthetics and functionality. The front end features a bold grille and stylish headlights, contributing to a distinctive look. The SEL trim often includes features such as fog lights, which improve visibility in adverse weather conditions. The side profile of the Escape is streamlined, with a sloping roofline and integrated roof rails. This design enhances the vehicle's aerodynamics and contributes to its sporty appearance. The rear of the Escape is equally stylish, with well-placed taillights and a practical liftgate. The liftgate makes it easy to access the cargo area, providing convenient loading and unloading.

The exterior colors available for the Escape SEL AWD are diverse, catering to different tastes and preferences. You can often choose from a range of metallic and non-metallic colors. The design of the Escape SEL AWD has received positive reviews for its modern and appealing appearance. It fits seamlessly into urban and suburban environments. The compact size makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, while the stylish design ensures that it stands out. The exterior design effectively combines practicality with visual appeal. The attention to detail in the exterior design adds to the overall value of the vehicle. The exterior design helps the vehicle achieve a perfect blend of form and function. This helps in enhancing its overall usability. The exterior design is carefully crafted to be visually attractive while providing functional benefits, such as improved aerodynamics and easy access to the cargo area. The exterior design is modern and appealing, combining practicality with visual appeal and making it a standout choice in the compact SUV segment. This helps to make the 2019 Ford Escape SEL AWD an attractive choice.

Safety Features and Ratings

Safety is a top priority for Ford, and the 2019 Ford Escape SEL AWD comes equipped with a range of safety features designed to protect occupants. Standard safety features often include airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and a rearview camera. In addition to these standard features, the SEL trim typically includes advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that enhance safety. These can include blind-spot monitoring, which alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots, and rear cross-traffic alert, which warns the driver of approaching traffic when backing up. Lane-keeping assist helps to prevent unintentional lane departures, and adaptive cruise control maintains a safe distance from the vehicle in front.

When it comes to safety ratings, the 2019 Ford Escape generally performs well in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These agencies evaluate vehicles based on their crashworthiness and the effectiveness of their safety features. You can often find detailed information on these ratings on the NHTSA and IIHS websites. These ratings can help you gauge the level of protection the vehicle provides in the event of an accident. The 2019 Ford Escape SEL AWD is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect occupants and help prevent accidents. The vehicle's strong safety ratings from reputable organizations provide added confidence. The inclusion of ADAS adds an extra layer of protection, making the Escape a safe and reliable choice for families and individuals. The safety features and ratings reflect Ford's commitment to vehicle safety, ensuring a secure and protected driving experience.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2019 Ford Escape SEL AWD to give you a clear view.

Pros:

• Comfortable and spacious interior: Plenty of room for passengers and cargo.
• User-friendly infotainment system: SYNC 3 with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a breeze to use.
• Available all-wheel drive: Improves traction and handling in various weather conditions.
• Good fuel economy: The 1.5L EcoBoost engine offers a decent mileage.
• Stylish and modern design: Appealing exterior styling.
• Safety features: Includes blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist.

Cons:

• Engine performance: The 1.5L engine isn't the most powerful option.
• Some materials: There are some areas where the materials could be upgraded.
• Potential reliability issues: Some owners report issues, so check for service records.

Conclusion

So, what's the final verdict on the 2019 Ford Escape SEL AWD? It's a solid choice in the compact SUV segment, offering a good balance of features, comfort, and practicality. The SEL trim provides a comfortable and well-equipped interior, while the all-wheel-drive system enhances its capabilities in various driving conditions. The SYNC 3 infotainment system is user-friendly, and the safety features add peace of mind. While the engine isn't the most powerful and there might be some reliability concerns, the Escape SEL AWD remains a popular choice for good reason. If you're in the market for a versatile and practical SUV, it's definitely worth considering. Make sure you check out the service history and give it a good test drive before making a decision. Hope this helps, guys!