Consumers have embraced the Ford Bronco Sport, but the company hasn’t forgotten about its more mainstream counterpart. Quite the opposite as the automaker is putting the finishing touches on the facelifted Escape. Spied completely undisguised in sporty ST-Line trim, the 2023 Escape appears far more refined than its somewhat anonymous predecessor. The changes are immediately apparent as the crossover adopts a more aggressive front fascia with a radically improved grille that is now mounted higher up and features a Ford logo in the center. The changes don’t stop there as designers gave the model sleeker headlights that now flow into a new LED light bar. Elsewhere, there are minimalist fog lights, a sportier central intake, and a faux skid plate.
While the profile is instantly
recognizable, the ST-Line variant features a monochromatic appearance thanks to
painted cladding. We can also see ST-Line badging on the front fender as well
as slim five-spoke alloy wheels. Last but not least, the model has been
equipped with new taillights and a subtly revised bumper.
Spy photographers were able to snap a few
interior pictures and they reveal the Escape will be outfitted with an all-new
infotainment system. It appears larger than the current 8-inch display and
looks to be a SYNC 4 variant.
The screen isn’t the only thing that’s new
as physical climate controls have been replaced by a row of capacitive touch
buttons, which reside at the base of the infotainment system. The physical
audio controls have also been jettisoned as Ford seems to be cutting redundant
switchgear.
The 2023 Ford Escape is expected to be
introduced in a few months and it will likely offer an assortment of familiar
powertrains. This means choices could include 1.5- and 2.0-liter EcoBoost
engines with outputs of up to 250 hp. Drivers looking for
something more eco-friendly should be able to opt for the usual hybrid and
plug-in hybrid options.