Whether you just got your license or you're heading off to college, choosing your first car is a big milestone, one that needs to be taken very seriously. After all, you're new to driving, which means much of your experience will now lie on the open road, not on a closed course, and being behind the wheel of the right vehicle matters. As you prepare to sail down Route 70 in your very first car, you'll want to consider the features and capabilities you'll need so that you're able to remain safe, focused, and comfortable during all your travels. Here at Steve Marsh Ford, we recommend the compact Ford Escape SUV for a variety of drivers, from daily commuters to small families and, yes, even new drivers. If you're searching for a Ford Escape for sale near Jackson, you'll want to stop by our dealership, and if you're wondering if the Ford Escape is a good first car, here are some reasons why you'll want to be behind the wheel of this compact and sturdy everyday driver.
Easy Handling
As a new driver, you're going to want a vehicle that's easy for you to drive, one that isn't too big, which is why the 2025 Ford Escape is a perfect option. Its compact stature makes it easy to travel down the highway, and when it comes to parking, you won't have to worry about maneuvering your vehicle into a tight space. The Escape is easy to park, easy to handle, and offers a bit more sturdiness than you'll find in a sedan without the challenges that larger SUVs often pose.
You'll also find that the Escape showcases a favorable ride quality, with responsive handling and ample control, while you take on the twists and turns of the road as you meet up with friends around Jackson. Choosing a model with all-wheel drive will enhance your confidence behind the wheel, as you'll be able to take on a bit of rough terrain or some inclement weather in the winter with heightened traction and control. Plus, with Selectable Drive Modes, maximizing any ride is a breeze, with access to modes like Slippery to take on wet roadways with precision, Eco to maximize fuel efficiency, and more to tailor your ride to suit your surroundings.
Spectacularly Safe
Every parent wants to protect their kids, but when the kids grow up and take to the streets, this becomes a little more difficult. Fortunately, new drivers can set their parents' minds at ease, knowing that they're traveling in a vehicle that prioritizes safety. The 2025 Escape isn't just built with Ford-level durability at its core; it also showcases a superior safety suite to ensure a secure ride, no matter what awaits on the Jackson roads. With Ford Co-Pilot360, you'll have access to cutting-edge safety tech to help you remain safe while you travel, with features like Pre-Collision Assist to prevent or mitigate damage from a front-end collision, as well as blind spot monitoring, lane departure warnings, and more helpful aids in its arsenal.
There are even more driver assist aids that come to the rescue, such as available Intersection Assist, which helps you navigate tricky intersections, as well as an available 360-Degree Camera System to provide you with clear views all around your vehicle. As a new driver, you haven't had that much time on the road yet, and it'll be immediately clear that anything can happen as you travel. Having a suite of sophisticated safety tech at your fingertips makes your time behind the wheel infinitely more satisfying, building up your confidence with every mile you clock in.
Highly Efficient
Whether you're heading to an after-school basketball game or to class at Union University, knowing that you won't have to frequently stop and get gas is highly appreciated. Have you seen the gas prices recently? Choosing an efficient vehicle is one way to keep more money in your pocket.
Fortunately, the Ford Escape is great on gas, offering a variety of powertrains to choose from that are both peppy and efficient. Choosing a model with a 1.5L EcoBoost turbocharged three-cylinder engine delivers the best gas mileage out of the non-hybrid models, able to get an EPA-estimated 27 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. This makes it easy to travel to class, your part-time job, or to school each day without having to worry about spending an exorbitant amount at the gas station.
Spacious & Comfortable
You may be taking a few friends to school each day, or maybe you're in need of a vehicle that can handle sports gear and all the items you happen to be traveling with, which makes the 2025 Escape a phenomenal choice when you need space. With room for five, you're able to take your fellow classmates to and from school. Plus, with ample cargo volume of up to 65.4 cu. ft., loading in sports gear, school projects, and more is easy when you're driving the Escape.
You'll also find that the Escape is exceptionally comfortable, with access to top-quality appointments that keep you cozy as you make your way all around Jackson. Even entry-level models offer plenty of features to enhance your experience, including cloth front bucket seats, dual-zone temperature control, and more than 40 inches of legroom up front to relax while you travel. Those who want to splurge for a bit more comfort features will like the mid-level ST-Line, which showcases an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, partial vinyl and cloth sport contour bucket seats with red stitching, and a flat-bottom steering wheel to amp up excitement on board.
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Plenty of Convenient Tech
Everyone appreciates tech on board their everyday traveler; however, too much tech can be distracting, especially for those still perfecting their skills behind the wheel. The good news is that the Escape has the perfect amount of tech to enhance your time inside without taking your focus off the road. From an available 13.2-inch infotainment display to Connected Navigation and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, the Escape has all the convenient tech features you need to make the most of your time cruising in and around Jackson while practicing safe driving habits. You're able to keep your eyes on the road while you enjoy voice assistance features through Alexa, allowing you to remain safe, even if you just remembered something you needed to add to your to-do list.
Affordable Price Point
You may have some money saved for a new vehicle or maybe your parents are helping you out. Either way, you don't want to pay an arm and a leg for your first car, especially if you're only working part-time or if you're a full-time student. This is another reason why we recommend the Escape since it's highly affordable, especially for all you're able to get inside. With a starting price of around $29K, the Escape allows you to take advantage of cutting-edge features for a price that fits within your budget, and if you choose to buy used, you get to enjoy even more reasonable prices.[a]
The Escape Is the Practical Everyday Driver You've Always Wanted
The Escape appeals to those seeking out a practical everyday vehicle that's efficient and loaded with the features every driver needs to enhance their time spent on Jackson roads. If you're a new driver attempting to find the ideal vehicle that will offer you safety, comfort, and quality, the Ford Escape is a great pick. It's easy to drive, loaded with advanced safety tech, fuel efficient, innovative, and cozy inside, making it a breeze to travel to work, school, or to meet up with friends while having the confidence you need as you establish yourself as a safe driver.