The 2001 Ford Escort is a low-priced, entry-level vehicle. With a lower price tag and the same engine as the Ford Focus, it can be a slightly cheaper option without too much performance lag. The Focus does offer a lot more for what is normally only a marginal price increase. However, with lower demand, the Ford Escort can be found at lower than normal prices more often than its counterpart. With a good enough deal, the Ford Escort can be a good choice over the Focus, especially models with optional equipment that can bring the Escort more in line with what the Focus offers. At the same price range, the Focus is the superior choice, but the difference is not so great that a bargain-priced Escort would be unable to justify being chosen over the Focus.
The Range
Body Styles: coupe
Engines: 2.0-liter four-cylinder
Transmissions: five-speed manual, four-speed automatic
Models: Ford Escort ZX2
What's New
The Ford Escort S/R is no longer available.
Exterior
The 2001 Ford Escort is only available as a two-door coupe. The wagon, sedan, and hatchback options were discontinued or suspended before the 2001 release. The Escort measures 175.2 inches long, making a fairly compact vehicle. The styling of the Escort is graceful and sporty. A rear spoiler is even available, although some drivers might not like it on a small coupe like this.
Interior
The 2001 Ford Escort's basic amenities are fairly unimpressive. Power mirrors, a front console, and an AM/FM radio are standard equipment. Air-conditioning, leather seats, CD player, CD changer, and moonroof are available as options. There are also some option groups available that lump many of these features together in one package. Even fully loaded, the Ford Escort is not going to be an amazingly luxurious vehicle, but it can be somewhat competitive with lower end mid-price vehicles.
Performance & Handling
The 2001 Ford Escort offers decent performance. It has the same engine used by some of the Ford Focus, which gives it fairly good acceleration and speed for a vehicle in this price range. The turning and maneuverability are actually very good. There are not a whole lot of vehicles that can turn as nimbly as the Escort, especially in this low of a price range. The Ford Focus does consistently outperform it, but the Ford Escort does hold its own for less money.
Safety
The 2001 Ford Escort has dual-front airbags and child seat anchors as standard equipment.
EPA Fuel Economy
Ford Escort: 22/30 mpg city/highway
You'll Like
- Low price tag
- Good standard engine choice
You Won't Like
- More expensive
- Many basic amenities are optional equipment
Sum Up
Low-priced sporty style.
If You Like This Vehicle
- Ford Focus
- Honda Accord
- Hyundai Accent
- Kia Rio
- Toyota Camry