2023 Ford Escape ST-Line Elite

The Ford Escape compact SUV line is getting a bit of a redesign for 2023, and with its new looks comes a variety of powertrain options, enhanced technologies and the sportier ST-Line trims.

In total, the 2023 Escape will be offered in seven different trims: Base, Active, Platinum, ST-Line, ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite, and Plug-in Hybrid. This is in ascending order of price, with the Base starting at $28,995, and the ST-Line Elite and Plug-in Hybrid starting at $39,995– all prices including the $1,495 destination charge.

Each trim gains different access to the Escape’s new powertrain options and front- or all-wheel drive layouts. First off, there’s a 1.5-liter EcoBoost looking at 180 horsepower. A 2.0-liter EcoBoost will also be available, bumping things up to 250 horsepower. The hybrids utilize a 2.5-liter Atkinson cycle engine producing 210 horsepower, with the Plug-In model capable of 37 miles of electric-only range. 

Despite the changing times, the new Escape stays the course as a compact two-row, five-seater utility. And with the SUV trends leaning more and more into the rugged adventurer aesthetic, Ford opted to keep the Escape more pedestrian in design. “Not every customer wants a rugged and boxy SUV, so we’ve made the new Escape more energetic, confident and sleeker,” said Amko Leenarts, director, Ford Design.

2023 Ford Escape ST-Line Elite

That being said, the Escape is keeping up with trends in the technology department, now offering a 13.2-inch infotainment screen and 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. More drive safety and convenience features are available, like Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Predictive Speed Assist, Evasive Steering and Connected Built-In Navigation. Ford’s SYNC4 is present, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities.

2023 Ford Escape Plug-In

As we’ve seen on other models (Edge, Explorer), the ST’s will signify themselves through unique badging and extra black exterior bits. In the case of the Escape, that means a series-specific black mesh grille, unique rear skid plate and single-wing rear spoiler. ST-Line Elites will receive an LED light bar that stretches between the headlamps. Inside, the black wrappings are held together by red contrast stitching, and a flat-bottom steering wheel is standard. 

The 2023 Ford Escape is being assembled at the Louisville Assembly Plant in Kentucky. Order banks are open now, with models expected to reach dealerships early next year.