The facelifted 2023 Ford Escape looks much sleeker now while also bringing more advanced technology inside and a revised trim level lineup.
When Ford released the fourth-gen Escape in 2019, customers voiced disappointment in the bland styling. But now the Escape has gone through its mid-cycle update and looks fresh and modern.
Forgoing the generic box-shaped design, the facelifted Escape looks more like a regular car than a rugged SUV. Ford’s design head, Amko Leenarts, mentions that not all customers look for a typical rugged SUV, hence why the 2023 Escape looks more similar to the Edge and Explorer. Overall, the changes are subtle but enough to fix the glaring front end of the pre-facelift model.
The 2023 Ford Escape comes in various trims — Base, Active, and Platinum, followed by the new ST-Line and Hybrid. The ST trim features three models: ST-Line, ST-Line Select, and ST-Line Elite. All “ST” trims feature a coast-to-coast LED light bar that adds distinctiveness to the rear end, a black mesh grille, body-colored cladding, a new rear skid plate, and much more, giving the SUV a sporty feel.
But while the exterior will bring more customers to showrooms, Ford Edge’s interior will probably get them to buy the crossover. Notably, the 2023 Escape now packs the SYNC 4 infotainment system and occupies a 13.2-inch center screen and a 12.3-inch digital cluster. The system supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, bringing the Escape in line with its competitors.
The upholstery also does not impress — the Base and the ST-Line opt for the Ebony shades, but the latter has contrasting red stitching on the seats, door panels, steering wheel, and floor mats.
Ford also focuses on safety features and offers a wide range of options a buyer can access based on the model. The safety tech includes Evasive Steering Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Predictive Speed Assist, and Cross Traffic Braking, all working under Ford’s Co-Pilot360™ Technology.
The 2023 Escape will keep the same powertrains as before; the Base, Active, and the ST-Line come with a 180-hp 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine, while the ST trims get a 2.0-liter turbo producing 250 hp. Both ICE-only options are available with FWD or AWD drivetrains.
Customers can also opt for the more economical hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, both employing a 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated engine. The regular hybrid produces 200 hp, while the more powerful PHEV model produces 210 hp while also providing a 37-mile battery-only range. Both hybrids are available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive versions.
The 2023 Escape starts at a competitive $28,995 for the Base model, while an ST-line will set you back at least $31,335. Bookings are currently open, with the first models arriving early next year.
Gallery: 2023 Ford Escape
