Popular Ford Escape Updated for 2023
Freshened styling, larger screens, and a sporty ST-Line level are the main highlights
By Keith Barry
The popular Ford Escape compact SUV has been updated for 2023 with a new optional infotainment system, new advanced driver assistance systems, a few exterior enhancements, and new trim levels.
The biggest changes are the addition of a sporty-looking ST-Line with black exterior trim, and optional new tech including a bigger infotainment screen, the ability to download over-the-air updates, and an automatic emergency braking (AEB) system that is designed to detect pedestrians when turning corners.
Otherwise, a lot carries over from the current model, which was introduced in 2019 as a 2020 model. The overall design is basically the same, and the engine choices are still a 1.5-liter three-cylinder, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, or a hybrid or plug-in hybrid version with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder. Ford hasn’t yet shared whether fuel economy will improve for 2023, but the range estimates for how many miles drivers can get out of a full tank are in line with the current models.
What it competes with: Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-5, Nissan Rogue, Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4, Volkswagen Tiguan
What it looks like: A softer version of the current model.
Powertrain: 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, or 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine; 8-speed automatic or continuously variable transmission; front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive
Price: $28,995-$39,995 (including destination)
On sale: Early 2023
The 2023 Ford Escape plug-in hybrid and Escape ST-Line Elite.
Photo: Ford
CR's Take
The Escape’s mild updates and new trim level are eye-catching, although we hope Ford fixed our main complaint about the base engine’s vibration and resonance at low rpm. Along with below-average reliability, these issues put it toward the bottom of our compact SUV ratings. In addition, the large touchscreen infotainment screen may turn off buyers who prefer hard buttons and knobs. We’re eager to try it out and see how easy it is to use. We’re especially interested in Ford’s addition of Intersection Assist 2.0, which the automaker says can detect and automatically brake for pedestrians in turns. Research shows that many current AEB systems struggle to detect pedestrians in these situations.
Outside
Not a ton has changed. The Ford badge is now on the grille instead of above it, the grille itself is less trapezoidal, and the whole look is softer and reminiscent of the redesigned Honda HR-V.
The new ST-Line gets a black mesh grille, a unique rear skid plate, and a large single-wing rear spoiler. On the top-of-the-line ST-Line Elite, an LED light bar runs between the headlights where the grille meets the hood.
The 2023 Ford Escape plug-in hybrid and Escape ST-Line Elite look quite similar from the rear, but the ST has a rear spoiler and unique rear skid plate.
Photo: Ford
Inside
The biggest change for 2023 is the addition of an optional, larger 13.2-inch touchscreen display running Ford’s Sync 4 infotainment system. With this display, there are fewer physical buttons, with a row of dedicated touch-sensitive buttons underneath the large screen. The base Escape has an 8-inch screen.
Otherwise, the center console, gear selector knob, steering wheel, and other controls are largely unchanged. The base-model Escape gets a black interior, while other trim levels offer black or gray.
A 13.2-inch center touchscreen for the infotainment system is a new option.
Photo: Ford
What Drives It
The base version of the ST-Line gets a 1.5-liter, turbocharged three-cylinder engine that the automaker estimates will get 180 hp. Front-wheel drive comes standard, and all-wheel drive is available. The ST-Line Select and ST-Line Elite trim levels offer a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that Ford estimates will be good for 250 hp. Front-wheel drive comes standard, and all-wheel drive is available. There’s also a hybrid ST-Line.
Escape Base and Active models get the 1.5-liter engine as standard with optional all-wheel drive. Platinum models get the 2.0-liter engine and all-wheel drive. The hybrid powertrain option comes with front- or all-wheel drive.
The plug-in hybrid has an EPA-estimated, electric-only range of 37 miles.
Photo: Ford
Safety and Driver Assistance Systems
The Escape gets standard AEB with pedestrian detection and blind spot warning (BSW), both of which are updated for 2023. Intersection Assist 2.0 is designed to avoid collisions with pedestrians while turning, while the BSW system will nudge the steering wheel if a driver continues an attempt to change lanes when the BSW warning light is on. Features such as adaptive cruise control (ACC) and a surround-view camera are optional.
2022 Ford Escape
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