Even though it was named as a sixth generation, the 1995 Escort was largely based on its predecessor, and it took an expert eye to distinguish the two models.
Ford needed to get rid of its vehicles’ boxy old-style look, but its designers looked like they didn’t burn the midnight oil to make a new shape for the Escort. The European market was recovering fast from the economic recession, and the compact-segment was growing.

For the 1995 Escort, Ford introduced a new front fascia with smaller headlights rounded on the inbound side. The oval grille was kept from its predecessor, but the bumper featured a rounded, slim opening to cool the engine. Depending on the trim-level and the options, the 1995 Escort featured headlights washers, but the base model featured black plastic bumpers. From the sides, the squared-shape of the door handles was changed in favor of rounded ones.

Inside, a newly designed dashboard took the place of the older, squared one. Its instrument cluster was extended over the center stack and the central vents. The radio-cassette was included in the standard version, but the power windows and mirrors didn’t. At least, it featured a driver’s airbag and power-steering. In the back, the folding and tilting bench was standard as well.

Under the hood, Ford kept the 1.4-liter engine for the base model, but its entire lineup was with fuel injection. Three diesel engines were introduced to cover the demand for commuter cars.