Trim Levels: 2017 Ford Escape S, SE & Titanium

If you are trying to figure out which 2017 Ford Escape trim fits you best, here is a simple owner guide. I walk through the three trims, the common packages, wheel and tire sizes, and a few practical notes from living with our Escape, which we call Alice. The goal is to focus on the stuff you feel every day, not brochure fluff.

Quick overview

Common option packages you will run into

• SE Convenience or Cold Weather style packages: Heated seats, heated mirrors, and sometimes a heated steering wheel in colder regions. These make a noticeable difference in winter comfort.
• Technology or Driver Assist packages: Larger screen, navigation in some markets, blind spot monitoring, cross traffic alerts, backup sensors, and camera features. If you road trip often, these are worth seeking out.
• Tow package: Factory hitch and wiring plus additional cooling where equipped. If you plan to tow or carry hitch accessories, a factory package is clean and saves DIY time.
• Appearance packages: Darker trim, special wheels, and unique interior details. Good if you care about the look more than added functions.

Wheels and tire sizes by trim

Exact wheels and sizes depend on packages and region, but these ranges are common for the 2017 model year. Always check your door placard for the correct size, load, and speed ratings.

• S: 17 inch wheel fitment is common. Tire size often 235/55R17.
• SE: 17 inch alloys standard on many builds. Some packages step to 18 inch wheels with 235/50R18 tires.
• Titanium: 18 inch or 19 inch wheels are more common. The 19s often run 235/45R19 tires and ride a little firmer.

Bigger wheels sharpen steering feel a touch but add cost for tires and can ride more firmly. For long highway trips and winter performance, many owners are happy on 17s.

Engines you may see within trims

• 2.5L (non turbo): Often found in S and some SE models. Simple and steady. Regular maintenance is straightforward.
• 1.5L EcoBoost: Common in SE. Good balance of torque and economy. Fresh plugs and a clean air filter keep it happy.
• 2.0L EcoBoost: Often in Titanium and some optioned SEs. Stronger highway pull and higher tow ratings when properly equipped.

Comfort and interior differences you will notice

• Seats: SE and Titanium usually add power adjustment and heating with the right packages. Good for shared drivers and winter mornings.
• Audio and screen: Higher trims get larger screens and better speakers. If you use navigation and Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, check the build to confirm what is installed.
• Noise and ride: Cabin sound depends more on tire choice and maintenance than trim alone. Fresh door seals and quality tires can make an S feel as quiet as an SE.

AWD vs FWD

AWD adds traction in poor weather. It also adds weight and some mechanical complexity. If you see snow and unplowed roads, AWD can be a confidence booster. If you drive mostly in town and keep good all weather or winter tires on hand when needed, FWD can be a smart, simple choice. When shopping used, make sure all four tires match brand and size on AWD models to avoid driveline wear.

What to look for when shopping used

• Match the trim and package list to what is actually on the car. Window stickers, VIN option decoders, and module configuration screens can help.
• Check that heated items work if the car has the cold weather package. Seats, wheel, mirrors, and washer jets if equipped.
• Operate the power liftgate and driver aids on Titanium. Make sure sensors, camera, and the latch function correctly.
• Verify tire size and wheel condition. Bent wheels cause vibration that feels like a rotor issue.
• If there is a factory hitch, ask what was towed. A small utility trailer is normal. Heavy loads need confirmation against the rating.

Owner notes

Alice is an SE, and we wouldn't trade her for anything! The trim has enough comfort to feel modern without extra complexity. Over time we added our own touches to add our own bit of personality. If you find a clean S with the right maintenance and tires, it can be just as satisfying. Titanium is the easy choice if you want leather and driver aids already baked in.

Products to buy

Always verify fitment and specs for your exact trim and region.

Interior protection

• All weather floor liners for your trim and row count. Shop liners
• Cargo area liner with seat back coverage if you haul gear. Shop cargo liners

Convenience upgrades

• Phone mount that does not block vents or the screen. Shop mounts
• Low profile crossbars sized for the Escape roof rails if equipped. Shop crossbars
• Roof box for trips if you need extra cargo space. Match to your crossbar rating. Shop roof boxes

Lighting and vision

• Quality headlight bulbs that match your socket type. Avoid overly blue bulbs. Shop bulbs
• Beam style wiper blades in the correct lengths for front and rear. Shop wipers

Diagnostics

• OBD-II Bluetooth scanner for codes and live data. Helpful on test drives and for long term ownership. Shop scanners