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What do our experts think of the 2023 Ford Escape? We look at powertrain, interior options, trim levels, and more. Find out our thoughts here.
2023 Ford Escape – ford.com | Shop 2023 Ford Escape on Carsforsale.com
What’s New for the 2023 Ford Escape?
On sale in fourth-generation form since 2020, the 2023 Ford Escape is the recipient of a thorough mid-cycle refresh that brings fresh styling versus the 2022 Escape that we review here. Also new on the list is a series of ST-Line sporty models to go with existing gas- and hybrid-powered models, a giant 13-inch infotainment screen, and the latest in advanced driver-aids. The compact crossover segment is seriously competitive and Ford aims to keep the long-running Escape in the mix with a newly standard wireless connection for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as trick tech like Blind Spot and Intersection Assist, which work to avoid accidents.
The Breakdown
Solid fuel economy
Loads of tech features
The latest driver aids
Still has hubcaps
Overwhelming level of options
3-cylinder coarseness
The crossover for anyone
2023 Ford Specs
- 189 horsepower from base engine
- 199 lb-ft of torque from base engine
- 7 available trims
- 37.3 cu-ft of cargo capacity
- 65.4 cu-ft of cargo capacity with seats down
- NHTSA 5-Star overall rating
- That 13-inch infotainment screen
- 100,000 miles of hybrid component coverage
2023 Ford Escape Powertrain
Ford doesn’t skimp on powertrain offerings when it comes to the 2023 Ford Escape. Base models come with a 1.5L turbocharged inline-3 that makes 180 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque. ST-Line Select and Elite models as well as the Platinum sport a turbocharged 2.0L inline-4 making 250 horses and 280 torques. Both of these engines pair with an 8-speed automatic to spin the front, or all four, wheels in 1.5L trim. When fitted with the 2.0L motor, AWD is standard.
A hybrid powertrain, which is optional on all three ST-Line models and the Platinum, pairs a small battery-powered electric motor with a naturally aspirated 2.5L four-cylinder. It puts out a combined 192 horsepower and pairs with a CVT that routes power to the front or all four wheels. Finally, there is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain that is only available on the top-spec Escape with the notably obvious name of Plug-In Hybrid. It adds a bigger battery pack – 11.2-kWh – to the HEV setup for 210 net horsepower and also works with a CVT.
Every 2023 Escape rides on a fully independent suspension that is tuned for a comfy ride. Certainly, the 250-horse power plant is the most potent and offers speedy shots to 60 mph, but these models do not come with any sort of chassis tuning to add a more sporting vibe. But when it comes to errand running, daily commuting, and long trips, the Escape will provide a relaxed ride.
2023 Ford Escape Fuel Economy & MPG
The little three-cylinder engine on base 2023 Escapes earns 27 mpg city and 34 mpg highway with a 1-2 mpg decrease when AWD is added. Stepping up to the AWD-only 2.0L four-cylinder comes with a step down in efficiency to 23/31 mpg in city/highway driving. Hybrid models show off with ratings of 42 mpg city and 36 mpg highway in FWD or AWD setup. And along with a 105 MPGe combined figure, the Escape PHEV can go 37 miles on pure electricity.
Interior, Comfort, & Cargo Space
The two-row five-passenger 2023 Escape should provide a pleasant cabin experience for all occupants. Seat materials range from basic cloth to Ford’s ActiveX synthetic upholstery to genuine quilted leather. Those seats can be heated -though there is no ventilation offered – as can the steering wheel, which is trimmed in red stitching for ST-Line models. From the Active model and up, dual-zone automatic climate control is included and a panoramic moonroof is offered on most of the lineup for an extra $1,595.
Space-wise, the 2023 Ford Escape differentiates itself from competitors like the Chevy Equinox -which we compare here – by including a sliding second-row bench. That enables up to 37 cubic feet of storage behind the backseat versus a maximum of 30 cubes for the Chevy. Overall cargo space tops out at 65 cubic feet and the rear row can be split-folded in a 60/40 configuration. But be aware that both hybrid models come with a reduction in cargo space of 3-4 cubic feet and a drop of two inches for rear legroom.
Entertainment & Technology
As part of the 2023 Escape overhaul, wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – increasingly ubiquitous technologies that we explain here – has been made standard. An 8-inch touchscreen for infotainment management is the standard setup though a 13-inch screen is available. Other fancy available tech includes a head-up display, a digital gauge cluster, and a surround-view monitor.
All Escapes have a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot and dual front USB ports, but no matter which model you choose, the 10-speaker B&O audio system and digital rearview require an optional package. Perhaps the Escape’s most impressive bit of tech is Active Park Assist 2.0, an optional system that removes the stress of parallel parking by doing it for you. It’s one of our favorite cutting-edge car features.
Safety Features
The 2023 Ford Escape comes laden with advanced driver aids that include forward collision mitigation, a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and a lane-keeping system. Adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist are available with a package or as standard equipment on the ST-Line Elite. That model also comes with front and rear parking sensors and reverse automated braking. It all helps the latest Escape earn a 5-Star crash-test rating from the NHTSA.
2023 Ford Escape Trims & Pricing
Base – $29,495
The Escape Base comes with chintzy steel wheels and hubcaps but makes up for that with LED headlights, an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, and matching gauge cluster screen. Black cloth is the only upholstery offered here and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included.
Active – $30,840
For less than $1,000 more, Active models add 17-inch alloy wheels, a power-operated tailgate, tinted windows, and dual-zone automatic climate control.
ST-Line – $31,835
All-new this year, the ST-Line trim brings a black mesh front grille, 18-inch rims, and a larger rear spoiler. The flat-bottomed steering wheel and seat upholstery are both decorated with red stitching.
ST-Line Select – $35,535
The step-up in price for an ST-Line Select accounts for the standard 2.0L engine and AWD. These models also have heated side mirrors, remote engine start, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel.
Platinum – $38,960
Escape Platinum has an upscale style courtesy of body-color lower body cladding, 19-inch wheels, and upgraded front accent lighting. A $1,900 package offers self-parking tech, a 10-speaker stereo from B&O, and a HUD.
ST-Line Elite – $39,955
Squeaking in under $40,000, the top-spec ST-Line Escape boasts a 13-inch infotainment screen, a 12-inch instrument panel screen, ACC, and built-in navigation. Ambient lighting dresses up the cabin, while evasive steering assist, and a surround view monitor ratchet up the level of technology.
Plug-In Hybrid – $41,995
The Escape PHEV aligns with the Active model for features and then adds niceties like heated front seats, the 13-inch display, and navigation. But an available $4,5000 Premium package that loads this model up with the B&O stereo, a HUD, quilted leather upholstery, and a whole lot more can drive up the final price. Fortunately, the Escape PHEV has some current purchase incentives as we detail here.
Warranties
Ford’s warranty is of the average variety with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic term and five years or 60,000 miles of powertrain coverage. Hybrid components have an 8-year/100,000-mile coverage window, but unlike Toyota and Hyundai, there is no complimentary maintenance.
What we think
2023 Ford Escape – ford.com | Shop 2023 Ford Escape on Carsforsale.com
Without doubt, the 2023 Ford Escape offers something for most anyone shopping the compact crossover market. It can be a bit overwhelming to sift through the myriad option menus, not to mention drivetrain, powertrains, and trim lines. But the modern looks that result from this year’s refresh are well-executed and the Escape continues to be a compelling little SUV in a crowded segment. I would be all over the hybrid powertrain, because gas isn’t getting any cheaper, in combination with the ST-Line Select to revel in the joy of heated seats on a cold morning.
