2017 Ford Escape Cargo Space: How It Really Measures Up
When shopping for a compact SUV, cargo specifications like "34.3 cubic feet" sound impressive on paper—but how does that translate to real-world usability? We put the 2017 Ford Escape through rigorous testing alongside six competitors to reveal what these measurements actually mean for your daily life.
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The Cargo Test: Methodology
MotorVero's engineering team designed a standardized test using common items that challenge SUV cargo areas:
- Adult bicycle (23 inches long)
- Adjustable cardboard box (tested in two configurations)
- Pair of golf bags (standard tour size)
The cardboard box simulated two scenarios:
- Compact mode: 37"L x 6"W x 41"H (behind second-row seats)
- Expanded mode: 70"L x 6"W x 41"H (with seats folded)
Ford Escape Cargo Performance
With 34.3 cubic feet behind the second row and 67.8 cubic feet with seats folded, the Escape appears spacious on spec sheets. Our real-world testing revealed nuanced insights:
Key Findings:
- Tall but narrow cargo opening makes loading bulky items challenging
- Protruding bumper requires careful loading to avoid scratches
- Wheel wells significantly reduce usable width in expanded mode
- Could not accommodate the compact box behind second-row seats
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The Escape's high roof and low load floor initially suggest generous space, but the 48.5-inch width between wheel wells becomes restrictive when loading wider items like our test box in expanded configuration.
Competitive Comparison
We tested the Escape against the segment's top performers:
| Model | Cargo Behind 2nd Row | Max Cargo (Seats Folded) | Bicycle Test | Compact Box Fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 Ford Escape | 34.3 cu ft | 67.8 cu ft | Yes (difficult) | No |
| 2017 Honda CR-V | 39.2 cu ft | 75.8 cu ft | Yes (easy) | Yes |
| 2018 Chevrolet Equinox | 29.9 cu ft | 63.5 cu ft | Yes | No |
The Honda CR-V emerged as the cargo leader, accommodating all test items with room to spare. The Volkswagen Tiguan was the only model that could fit our compact box behind the second row—a significant advantage for families needing constant access to cargo space.
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Practical Implications
Beyond measurements, we identified key usage considerations for Escape owners:
Loading Challenges
The combination of a narrow 42.5-inch liftgate opening and protruding bumper creates a "loading tunnel" effect. During our bicycle test, the rear derailleur consistently contacted the bumper during loading.
Creative Packing Required
The Escape rewards strategic packing:
- Place tall items toward the center to utilize roof height
- Use the underfloor storage for small items (3.1 cu ft capacity)
- Fold one section of the 60/40 split seat for long items
Who Should Consider the Escape?
Despite its cargo limitations, the Escape excels for:
Best For:
- Urban drivers who prioritize maneuverability over max cargo
- Active couples with foldable sports equipment
- Pet owners needing height for crates
Consider Alternatives If:
- You regularly transport large boxes or furniture
- Need to keep third-row access while carrying cargo
- Frequently load heavy items (high lift-over height)
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Expert Packing Tips
Maximize your Escape's cargo area with these professional techniques:
1. The Diagonal Method
Angle large items diagonally to utilize the full height while clearing the wheel wells. Our test bicycle fit best when positioned at a 30-degree angle.
2. Layered Loading
Place soft items (duffle bags, groceries) on top of rigid objects to fill the vertical space without crushing delicate items.
3. Bungee Anchor Points
Use the four cargo tie-downs to secure loads and prevent shifting—especially important given the Escape's relatively short cargo floor (34.5 inches behind seats).
Beyond Cubic Feet: Other Storage Features
The Escape offers clever storage solutions beyond the main cargo area:
- Front seat under-storage bin: 1.2 cu ft hidden compartment
- Door pocket redesign: Now fits large water bottles
- Center console: 2.3 cu ft with adjustable dividers
These features help compensate for the main cargo area's limitations, particularly for small item storage.
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Market Alternatives to Consider
Based on your cargo needs, these 2017-2018 models may better suit your requirements:
For Maximum Space:
Honda CR-V - Best-in-class 75.8 cu ft with superior width between wheel wells (51.5 inches).
For Easy Loading:
Nissan Rogue - Low 28.5-inch load floor height and wide-opening doors.
For Flexible Configurations:
Volkswagen Tiguan - Only model in test that fit our compact box behind second row.
Final Verdict
The 2017 Ford Escape delivers adequate cargo space for most daily needs, but creative packing is required to maximize its tall-but-narrow layout. While cubic footage numbers suggest segment competitiveness, real-world usability falls slightly behind leaders like the Honda CR-V.
Pro Tip: Always test-fit your largest regular cargo items during a test drive. Bring a bicycle, stroller, or whatever represents your "worst-case scenario" to evaluate true usability.
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