Popular Ford Escape Updated for 2023

The Escape’s mild updates and new trim level are eye-catching, although we hope Ford fixed our main complaint about the base engine’s vibration and resonance at low rpm. Along with below-average reliability, these issues put it toward the bottom of our compact SUV ratings. In addition, the large touchscreen infotainment screen may turn off buyers who prefer hard buttons and knobs. We’re eager to try it out and see how easy it is to use. We’re especially interested in Ford’s addition of Intersection Assist 2.0, which the automaker says can detect and automatically brake for pedestrians in turns. Research shows that many current AEB systems struggle to detect pedestrians in these situations.

Not a ton has changed. The Ford badge is now on the grille instead of above it, the grille itself is less trapezoidal, and the whole look is softer and reminiscent of the redesigned Honda HR-V.

The new ST-Line gets a black mesh grille, a unique rear skid plate, and a large single-wing rear spoiler. On the top-of-the-line ST-Line Elite, an LED light bar runs between the headlights where the grille meets the hood. 

The biggest change for 2023 is the addition of an optional, larger 13.2-inch touchscreen display running Ford’s Sync 4 infotainment system. With this display, there are fewer physical buttons, with a row of dedicated touch-sensitive buttons underneath the large screen. The base Escape has an 8-inch screen.

Otherwise, the center console, gear selector knob, steering wheel, and other controls are largely unchanged. The base-model Escape gets a black interior, while other trim levels offer black or gray.

The base version of the ST-Line gets a 1.5-liter, turbocharged three-cylinder engine that the automaker estimates will get 180 hp. Front-wheel drive comes standard, and all-wheel drive is available. The ST-Line Select and ST-Line Elite trim levels offer a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that Ford estimates will be good for 250 hp. Front-wheel drive comes standard, and all-wheel drive is available. There’s also a hybrid ST-Line. 

Escape Base and Active models get the 1.5-liter engine as standard with optional all-wheel drive. Platinum models get the 2.0-liter engine and all-wheel drive. The hybrid powertrain option comes with front- or all-wheel drive.

The Escape gets standard AEB with pedestrian detection and blind spot warning (BSW), both of which are updated for 2023. Intersection Assist 2.0 is designed to avoid collisions with pedestrians while turning, while the BSW system will nudge the steering wheel if a driver continues an attempt to change lanes when the BSW warning light is on. Features such as adaptive cruise control (ACC) and a surround-view camera are optional.