The Ford Escape has been given a major update for 2023 that adds both style and new technology to the popular compact crossover.
The current Escape, known as the Kuga in some markets, was introduced for the 2020 model year with a rather lukewarm design. However, the 2023 Escape adds a healthy dose of sportiness, especially in the newly available ST-Line grade.
The ST-Line isn't a true performance vehicle like an ST but it does add firmer suspension damping. It's available with multiple powertrain options and brings sporty touches inside and out. It features unique designs for the grille and rear skid plate, and also adds a rear spoiler, 18-inch wheels (19-inch available), a flat-bottom steering wheel, and contrast stitching.
The standard powertrain for the 2023 Escape is a 1.5-liter turbo-3 rated at 180 hp, and the top engine is a 2.0-liter turbo-4 with 250 hp. In between are regular and a plug-in hybrid options. Both hybrids use a 2.5-liter inline-4 as their internal-combustion component, with the regular hybrid delivering a combined 200 hp and the plug-in hybrid a combined 210 hp. A 14.4-kwh battery in the plug-in hybrid delivers an estimated 37 miles of pure electric range.
2023 Ford Escape ST-Line
2023 Ford Escape ST-Line
2023 Ford Escape ST-Line
Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is available on all grades except the front-drive-only plug-in hybrid. The plug-in hybrid also misses out on the new ST-Line grade.
Ford has also added useful technology to the 2023 Escape, either standard or available. Key items include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging for mobile devices, voice activation (as well as Amazon Alexa), a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen, LED headlights, a surround-view camera system, and over-the-air update capability. The Escape also adds intersection assist to alert drivers of oncoming traffic when turning left and active blind-spot monitors that nudge the wheel in the other direction if a driver starts to move into an occupied lane.
The rear seat also continues with a slide function for passengers looking for more leg room. Ford claims it gives the back seat more room than the full-size Toyota Sequoia.
The 2023 Escape is available to order and will reach dealerships early next year. Production for the U.S. is handled at Ford's Louisville Assembly Plant in Kentucky.
