Ford has redesigned the Escape SUV for 2023, the automaker announced.
Ford has given the compact SUV a thorough makeover that includes a new ST-Line series, available 13.2-inch display with cloud-connected SYNC 4 Technology and new advanced driver-assistance system technologies. Continuing features include a sliding second row seat and hybrid and plug-in hybrid engine choices, Ford said.
“The new Escape is the perfect getaway vehicle,” said brand manager Adrienne Zaski. “From large touchscreens that can wirelessly display Apple CarPlay and Android Auto while your phone stays in your pocket to a sliding second row that offers more legroom, it makes everyday adventures easy to handle – from meetings on the fly, to coffee runs with friends, or even a power nap in the back seat.”
A new sporty ST-Line series, offered in three models, is new for 2023. The ST-Line offers a 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine targeting 180-hp with front-wheel or available all-wheel drive, as well as an available hybrid option with front-wheel drive. ST-Line Select and ST-Line Elite both offer an available 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine targeting 250-hp and standard all-wheel drive and an available hybrid option.
The ST-Line models are differentiated with a series-specific black mesh grille, unique rear skid plate, a large single-wing rear spoiler and a monochromatic exterior. The ST-Line Elite model includes an available “coast-to-coast” LED light bar that stretches from headlamp to headlamp.
The Ebony interior is highlighted with red stitching on the door panels, seat trim, center arm rest, floor mats and steering wheel. Also, a flat-bottom steering wheel and 18-inch Rock Metallic painted aluminum wheels are standard. The ST-Line Select model offers the optional 19-inch Machine-Faced Ebony Painted aluminum wheels that are standard on the ST-Line Elite model.
In addition to the ST-Line models, the Escape lineup also includes Base, Escape Active, Platinum and Plug-in Hybrid models. Escape Base and Active models offer a 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine with front-wheel or available all-wheel drive. Platinum model offers a 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine with all-wheel drive and a hybrid powertrain option with front-wheel or all-wheel drive.
In Base model, the interior color is Ebony, while in Escape Active, Platinum and Plug-in Hybrid models, there’s a choice of Ebony or Space Gray.
The 2023 Escape SUV also comes standard with new LED reflector headlamps with signature lighting. Inside is ample seating for up to five along with a rear seat that can slide nearly 6 inches, Ford said.
New available amenities include a 13.2-inch center-stack screen and available technologies include Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Predictive Speed Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Braking, Reverse Brake Assist, Evasive Steering Assist and Connected Built-In Navigation. Other available amenities include a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel cluster, Rear Parking Sensors, 360-degree camera and a wireless charging pad.
Escape brings back two hybrid choices for 2023, a full hybrid and a Plug-In Hybrid model.
Every model in the 2023 Ford Escape SUV lineup, whether powered by one of two available EcoBoost engines or hybrid powertrains, targets an EPA-estimated range of at least 400 miles per tank. The full hybrid model with front-wheel-drive targets an EPA-estimated range of more than 550 miles.
Escape Plug-In Hybrid model includes Ford’s fourth-generation hybrid propulsion system, which includes a 2.5-liter Atkinson cycle hybrid engine and electronic continuously variable transmission. The front-wheel drive hybrid model is projected to produce a combined system of 210 hp.
The 2023 Ford Escape SUV Plug-In Hybrid model targets an EPA-estimated range of 37 miles in electric-only mode. Escape Plug-in Hybrid has a Level 1 / Level 2 AC charging port. Using a 110-volt Level 1 charge, the estimated time to fully charge the battery is 10 to 11 hours. Using a 240-volt Level 2 charge, charge time drops to roughly 3.5 hours.
The Escape Plug-In Hybrid model features four EV modes that allow customers to select the settings most suitable for their individual needs.
In Auto EV mode, the vehicle decides whether to run on gas or electric power. In EV Now mode, drivers can operate on all-electric driving. In EV Later mode, drivers can switch to full gas-powered driving to conserve electric miles for later. In EV Charge mode, drivers can continue to charge the battery while driving and generate electric-only miles to use later
The new Escape is also smart and connected with SYNC 4 providing cloud-connected navigation, Enhanced Voice Recognition and integrated standard wireless Apple CarPlay software feature and Android Auto smart driving capability. Alexa built-in hands-free experience is complimentary for up to three years.
In addition, Ford Power-Up over-the-air software updates can regularly add new software features and other improvements, and can even allow customers to pre-schedule software updates.
Available Ford Co-Pilot360 technology now features Intersection Assist 2.0, which helps clients avoid potential collisions with pedestrians while turning. Escape also will debut Blind Spot Assist, which will alert the driver with a light on the sideview mirror, applying a nudge in the steering system to help caution against an unsafe action in a case where the driver has missed warnings from the Blind Spot Information System. This feature will detect other vehicles and motorcyclists in blind spots.
