The 2023 Ford Escape remains a strong competitor in the compact SUV segment, offering a versatile and well-rounded package for small families and individuals. With its refreshed design, variety of engine options, and an array of technology and safety features, the Escape provides a practical yet enjoyable driving experience. For 2023, Ford has given the Escape a mild facelift, updated the infotainment system, and streamlined the trim levels to make the buying process simpler and more straightforward.
The 2023 Escape features a more modern and streamlined exterior design compared to its predecessor. The front fascia has been updated with a wider grille, sleeker headlights, and a more aggressive lower bumper, giving the SUV a fresh and contemporary look. The body features clean lines, with subtle curves that lend it a more aerodynamic and sporty profile. New wheel designs and additional paint color options help differentiate the 2023 model. Overall, the Escape manages to look both athletic and refined, appealing to a broad range of buyers looking for something stylish yet functional.
The 2023 Escape offers several powertrain options, catering to different needs and preferences. The base engine is a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder, producing 180 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and comes in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. For those seeking more power, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is available, delivering 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, offering strong acceleration and more spirited driving dynamics. Ford also offers a hybrid and plug-in hybrid variant, both powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor. These hybrid versions are ideal for drivers focused on fuel efficiency without sacrificing too much in terms of performance. The overall driving experience of the Escape is smooth and comfortable, with responsive handling and a suspension setup that soaks up road imperfections well.
Fuel economy in the 2023 Escape varies depending on the powertrain. The base 1.5-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. All-wheel-drive versions see a slight drop in fuel efficiency. The more powerful 2.0-liter engine is understandably less efficient, returning around 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. The hybrid models shine in this department, with the standard hybrid rated at 44 mpg city and 37 mpg highway, while the plug-in hybrid can achieve even better numbers when utilizing its electric range for short trips. The plug-in hybrid offers around 37 miles of electric-only range, making it a great option for those who do a lot of city driving.
The 2023 Ford Escape comes equipped with a robust suite of safety features, many of which are standard across all trims. The Ford Co-Pilot360 system includes automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims add more advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control, parking assist, and a 360-degree camera system. The Escape has performed well in crash tests, consistently earning high safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS. These features, along with its strong safety scores, make the Escape a reassuring choice for families and safety-conscious buyers.
The interior of the 2023 Escape is functional and spacious, offering a comfortable cabin for up to five passengers. The design is simple yet modern, with quality materials used throughout, especially in higher trims. The front seats are supportive, and the rear seats offer ample legroom for adults, making it a comfortable option for longer trips. The rear cargo space is also generous, with the second-row seats folding flat to provide additional room for larger items. The infotainment system has been upgraded, with an available 13.2-inch touchscreen running Ford’s latest SYNC 4 system. Standard features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while higher trims add amenities like wireless smartphone charging, a premium B&O sound system, and a digital instrument cluster. The Escape’s tech features are user-friendly and integrate well into the driving experience, enhancing convenience and connectivity.
Ford offers the 2023 Escape in several trims, each catering to different budgets and preferences. The base trim, called the Escape, comes well-equipped with essentials like the 8-inch touchscreen, Ford Co-Pilot360, and cloth upholstery. The next level is the Active trim, which adds upgraded interior materials, roof rails, and keyless entry. The ST-Line trims offer a more sporty look with unique styling touches, a blacked-out grille, and larger wheels. The higher trims, such as the Platinum, add luxury features like leather seats, a larger touchscreen, and more advanced driver-assistance features. The hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants are available on select trims, offering a greener alternative for buyers. Pricing for the 2023 Escape starts at around $29,000 for the base model and can climb to over $40,000 for fully loaded versions, with hybrid models typically costing more.
The 2023 Ford Escape offers a well-balanced mix of style, performance, and technology, making it a solid contender in the compact SUV segment. Its refreshed exterior design, variety of engine options, and user-friendly technology features make it a practical choice for everyday driving. With strong safety ratings and a wide range of trims and features, the Escape remains a versatile option for families and individuals alike. Whether you’re seeking fuel efficiency with the hybrid models or prefer the turbocharged engines for a more engaging drive, the Escape has something for everyone.
