Ford Escort Hatchback (90-01) - Review

Review by Parkers on
The final generation Escort is more accomplished than earlier cars to carry the name, with ride and reliability up to 1990s standards. It's a practical, undemanding choice for the family motorist, but lacks the feeling of quality and downright driving pleasure of the Focus that replaced it . Factor in the low ownership costs and sheer abundance and it's not surprising that the Escort remains a fairly popular used car choice. Rally-derived RS Cosworth deserves much more respect than the rest of the range.
2.5 out of 5

Other Ford reviews

2.5 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£7,622 - £28,015

Used price range:

£168 - £19,496

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Easy to drive; cheap to run

Rivals offer more comfort and finesse

The final generation Escort is more accomplished than earlier cars to carry the name, with ride and reliability up to 1990s standards. It's a practical, undemanding choice for the family motorist, but lacks the feeling of quality and downright driving pleasure of the Focus that replaced it . Factor in the low ownership costs and sheer abundance and it's not surprising that the Escort remains a fairly popular used car choice. Rally-derived RS Cosworth deserves much more respect than the rest of the range.

Driving & Performance

  • Performance

    3 out of 5

    "Harsh old 1.3 and 1.4 engines detract from improvements elsewhere. Diesel units are sluggish except..."

  • Handling

    2 out of 5

    "Improved over previous generation, but Escort still offers a fairly nondescript driving experience -..."

Comfort

  • Comfort

    2.5 out of 5

    "Rear seats will cope with a couple of adults or three kids, whilst seats are significantly improved..."

  • Practicality

    4 out of 5

    "All models have a split folding rear seat so boot space can be increased if needed. Estate and..."

  • Equipment

    2.5 out of 5

    "Encore models have grey bumpers and mouldings, side impact beams, high-security locks, immobiliser..."

  • Behind the wheel

    2.5 out of 5

    "Pleasant enough cabin with elements borrowed from the old Mondeo; roomier, more refined, quieter but..."

Costs

  • Running costs

    3.5 out of 5

    "Resale value will depend upon condition, but if you don't pay much for it in the first place, then..."

  • Green credentials

    0 out of 5

Safety & Reliability

  • Safety

    1.5 out of 5

    "Scored only two stars in the NCAP crash test, and only a driver's airbag is fitted as standard..."

  • Reliability

    3 out of 5

    "Far more dependable than previous Escorts but not fault-free - will depend on how well it has been..."

Buying & Selling

  • Buying new

    0 out of 5

  • Buying used

    3 out of 5

    "There's plenty about so look at a few to make sure you can spot a good one. Don't pay silly money as..."

  • Selling

    4 out of 5

    "If reasonably priced, an Escort won't be difficult to sell at all as it's a known quantity with the..."

Owners' reviews