FORD

Escape SUV: complete image change and accompanied ST-Line sports series

Better equipped than ever for city adventures, from heavy traffic to maneuvering through the last parking space, the new Ford Escape SUV is ready to shine in the city.

Ford has given this SUV a complete makeover that includes a sleek new ST-Line sport series, 13.2-inch screen with cloud-connected SYNC4 system and new advanced driver assistance technologies. Among its popular features is a second row of seats with more legroom than other models in the same segment, as well as hybrid and plug-in hybrid engine options.

“The new Escape is the perfect vehicle for the city, but also for an escape from the routine that allows our customers to create memorable moments,” said brand manager Adrienne Zaski. “From touchscreens to a sliding second row that offers more space for all passengers, they make everyday travel more enjoyable.”

New ST-Line sports line, new series line...The Ford Escape comes with a new ST-Line sports series, which offers three models and emphasizes the image of this SUV with sporty touches. This lineup includes a 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine that achieves 180 hp with front-wheel drive (FWD) or four-wheel drive (AWD), as well as a hybrid option ST-Line Select and ST-Line Elite, which offer an EcoBoost engine of 2.0-liter engine that delivers 250 hp, a standard all-wheel drive and a hybrid option.

Models in the sporty ST-Line lineup stand out for their black mesh grille, exclusive ST-Line badges and a single-wing rear spoiler. Each surface is monocratically painted right down to the moldings for a dynamic and sophisticated look. The ST-Line Elite version is the most equipped and includes a flashy LED light bar that extends from headlight to headlight for a distinctive addition.

The interior offers a respite from the outside world. The black ambience stands out with red stitching on the door panels, seat upholstery, central armrest, floor mats and steering wheel, the latter, as well as 18-inch aluminum wheels, are standard.

“Not all customers want a big, square SUV, so we've designed the new Escape to be more aggressive, safer and more stylish,” said Amko Leenarts, Ford's Director of Design. "The Escape's interior complements the exterior design with a relaxed, elegant and comfortable space."

In addition to the models of the ST-Line sports line, the Ford Escape also includes the versions: Base, Active, Platinum and Plug-in Hybrid. The Escape Base and Active models offer a 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The Platinum model offers a 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine with all-wheel drive and a choice of either a front-wheel-drive (FWD) or all-wheel-drive (AWD) hybrid powertrain.

On the Base model, the interior color is black, while on the Escape Active, Platinum and Plug-in Hybrid models, you can choose between black or grey.

The 2023 Ford Escape features new LED headlights with distinctive lighting. Inside there is ample seating for up to five people along with a rear seat that can be slid 15 centimeters further by simply moving forward, maximizing cargo space.

New amenities available include a 13.2-inch center screen for easy viewing and technologies that include adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go and central lane keeping, braking assists, evasive maneuver assistance, among other things. In addition, it includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, rear parking sensors, 360-degree camera and an induction loading platform.

Hybrid power at the customer's choice...The Ford Escape, which emerged as the world's first hybrid SUV in 2005, brings back two new versions for 2023: a fully hybrid model and a plug-in model.

“Ford is one of the leading manufacturers of hybrid vehicles in the United States because we understand that not all of our customers are ready to fully go electric,” said Zaski.

All models in the 2023 Ford Escape lineup have an EPA-estimated range of at least 600 kilometers per tank, while the full-hybrid front-wheel drive version is targeting more than 500 miles.

The Escape Plug-In Hybrid model features an advanced propulsion system that includes a 2.5-liter Atkinson hybrid engine and a continuously variable electronic transmission. The front-wheel-drive hybrid version is expected to produce a combined 210hp system.

This latest model aims to reach more than 50 kilometers in 'electric-only' mode. It has a level 1 and 2 AC (alternating current) charging socket (120V or 240V). With level one (120V), the estimated time to fully charge the battery is 10 to 11 hours, while with level doos (240V), the time is reduced to approximately 3.5 hours.

The Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid features four EV modes that allow customers to select the configuration that best suits their needs:

Auto EV - The vehicle decides whether to run on gasoline or electric power.

EV Now - All-electric driving.

EV Later - You can switch to petrol driving to save electric km.

EV Charge - Offers the possibility of charging the battery while driving and generating electric km.

New levels of connectivity and driver assistance...The new Ford Escape is smart and at the forefront with SYNC4, providing cloud-connected navigation and integrating the standard wireless Apple CarPlay software function and Android Auto's smart driving capability for quick and easy connectivity.

Cloud connectivity combines SYNC4 with enhanced voice recognition and web-based search results so drivers and passengers have access to the latest information, from restaurants to nearby charging stations. Integrated navigation provides accurate traffic data on interruptions, accidents and more, while a digital owner's manual allows users to find information about their vehicle quickly and easily.

In addition, Ford Power-Up induction software updates are completely transforming the user experience, allowing us to regularly add new functions and other improvements to the vehicle. Customers can pre-schedule updates at their preferred times.

Ford Co-Pilot 360 technology now features Intersection Assist 2.0, which helps customers avoid potential collisions with pedestrians when turning. It will also feature Blind Spot Assist, which will alert the driver with a light in the side mirror and apply a turn to the steering system to help the driver avoid and detect other vehicles and motorcyclists in their blind spot.

The new Ford Escape will be produced at the Louisville, Kentucky plant and will arrive in 2023.

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