2023 Ford Escape Updated With Fresh Looks, Huge Screen
Looking to make up lost ground in the compact SUV segment, the Ford Escape is getting a mid-cycle update for 2023. We’ll see it in dealerships starting early next year.
The model lineup and names have also changed in the process. Here’s what you need to know.
- Also: Ford Recalls Nearly 3 Million Vehicles to Fix Shift Cable Issue
- Also: 2022 Ford Escape Hybrid Plug-In: Feeling Dated
ST-Line
For starters, a sporty new ST-Line model arrives featuring a unique black mesh grille, rear skid plate and large rear spoiler. An Elite package adds a trendy LED light bar between the redesigned headlights. It also replaces the 18-inch Rock Metallic painted aluminum wheels with 19-inch machine-faced Ebony Painted aluminum wheels that are optional with the Select package.
Inside, the black environment is highlighted with red stitching on the door panels, seat trim, centre armrest, floor mats and new flat-bottom steering wheel.
The Escape ST-Line is available with the 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine targeting 180 hp (FWD or AWD) as well as a 200-hp hybrid option (FWD). ST-Line Select and ST-Line Elite models both offer an available 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine targeting up to 250 hp (AWD) and a hybrid option (FWD).
Activ, Platinum and PHEV
Next, the 2023 Ford Escape now has a model called Activ that uses the 1.5-litre EcoBoost (FWD or AWD), while the Platinum model offers the 2.0-litre EcoBoost or hybrid powertrain, both with AWD. Their interior can be either Ebony or Space Grey.
As for the Escape Plug-In Hybrid, zero-emission range is unchanged at 60 km, but Ford is talking about a combined output of 210 hp instead of 221 hp as we know it now. That’s strange. And unfortunately for us Canadians, the PHEV variant is still FWD-only.
Keep in mind that this is just the initial announcement. Ford will provide further details and specs in the coming weeks.
More Tech
For 2023, the Ford Escape also aims to wow drivers with new technology, starting with an available centre display that stands a huge 13.2 inches in size. It’s powered by SYNC 4 providing cloud-connected navigation and integrating standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Alexa Built-in hands-free experience is included, as well, with complimentary connectivity for up to three years.
In addition, over-the-air software updates will help keep the vehicle’s systems fresh and up-to-date over time, while the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of advanced driver assistance features gains Intersection Assist 2.0, which helps prevent potential collisions with pedestrians while turning. The Escape also will debut Blind Spot Assist, which will alert the driver with a light on the side-view 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.
Pricing for the 2023 Ford Escape in Canada will be announced closer to launch early next year.