What’s the difference between the 2023 Ford Escape and the 2022 Ford Escape? Are there any differences? In fact, the newer version of Ford’s small crossover SUV adds new features and a new list of trim models. Before you begin shopping for your model, you’ll want to take a look at our comparison guide.
Key Takeaways
- These Escape model years feature similar MSRPs, but the 2023 model comes at a slightly higher price.
- The 2023 Escape introduces an all-new trim model lineup that shoppers should familiarize themselves with! It also comes with Ford’s newest infotainment system, SYNC 4, and the wireless versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Most of the 2022 Escape powertrains carry over to the new model, but the 2023 Escape also adds a plug-in hybrid powertrain to its lineup.
- Depending on model year and powertrain selection, fuel efficiency varies slightly between Escapes. However, the new plug-in hybrid powertrain offers the most efficient ride!
Price
As of this writing, you can still build and purchase either the 2023 or 2022 Ford Escape as a brand new model. The 2023 Escape costs slightly more, however, with a starting price of $28,000. The 2022 Escape MSRP is $27,185.
Trim Models
Although these Escape model years offer many of the same comfort, convenience, and safety features, they’re organized in different ways. The 2023 Escape provides seven trim models: Base, Active, PHEV, ST-Line, ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite, and Platinum.
Compared to the 2022 Escape, the 2023 Escape Base provides a more robust standard lineup, including the new SYNC 4 infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Standard safety aids include blind-spot monitoring and forward collision mitigation. Upgrade to the Active to add more in style and comfort, with chrome exterior trim, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
The PHEV is the only 2023 Escape available with the plug-in hybrid powertrain. It’s also pretty luxurious, with heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, a bigger 13.2-inch central infotainment touchscreen, and more.
The 2023 Escape ST-Line starts with the Active features and adds sporty equipment, such as roof rails, underbody skid plates, and a flat-bottom steering wheel. The ST-Line Select adds snazzy performance upgrades, such as standard all-wheel drive, LED fog lights, and remote ignition. With the ST-Line Elite, you get the aforementioned features, plus extra conveniences, like the 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen, built-in navigation, wireless smartphone charging, and adaptive cruise control.
Finally, there’s the 2023 Escape Platinum. It’s the most luxurious option, including most of the aforementioned features and adding faux-leather upholstery.
The 2022 Escape, on the other hand, is available as four trim models: S, SE, SEL, and Titanium. The entry-level S is pretty basic, though it does come standard with high tech safety gear (including blind-spot monitoring and forward collision mitigation). The SE adds perks like the SYNC 3 infotainment system, with an 8-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It’s also available with more options, like a power liftgate and panoramic sunroof. Choose the SEL for a drive that’s both more luxurious and sporty, with faux-leather upholstery and roof rails. Finally, the top-trim Titanium provides true luxury, with details like ambient interior lighting and chrome exterior trim. It’s the only 2022 Escape trim that offers optional leather upholstery.
Powertrain Options
Both the 2023 and 2022 Ford Escapes share three engine options:
- Standard turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine (181 horsepower, 190 lb-ft of torque) and eight-speed automatic transmission
- 2.5L four-cylinder hybrid engine (200 total hp, 155 lb-ft) and continuously variable transmission (CVT)
- Turbo 2.0L four-cylinder engine (250 hp, 280 lb-ft) and eight-speed automatic, standard all-wheel drive
The speedy 2.0-liter engine comes standard with sporty all-wheel drive, performance gear that improves traction on soft or slippery surfaces, such as dirt trails or snowy roads. All-wheel drive is optional for the base and hybrid engines.
For 2023, a plug-in hybrid powertrain joins the regular Escape lineup. It’s only available for the Escape PHEV trim model, but it significantly improves fuel mileage:
- 2.5L four-cylinder plug-in hybrid powertrain (210 total hp, 155 lb-ft) and CVT (front-wheel drive only)
Although there was a Ford Escape plug-in hybrid available for 2022, it’s considered a separate model! If you’re thinking about choosing this new Escape PHEV, note that it is not available with all-wheel drive.
Efficiency
With its new plug-in hybrid powertrain, the 2023 Ford Escape leads the way with its efficient performance. Its powertrain helps the Escape earn up to 44 city/41 highway mpg. With its hybrid powertrain, the 2023 Escape is also pretty thrifty, earning up to 39 mpg combined (42 city/36 highway).
The 2022 Escape’s available hybrid powertrain is slightly more efficient, providing 41 mpg combined (44 city/37 highway).
However, both the 2023 and 2022 Escape have matching EPA ratings when it comes to the base engine and the powerful 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The former earns up to 30 mpg combined (28/34 mpg) and the latter 26 mpg combined (22/31 mpg).
Your New Escape
With its many new trim models, the 2023 Ford Escape may have greater appeal for a wider range of drivers. And if you’re looking for maximum efficiency, you’ll certainly find it in the Escape PHEV trim model. This new Escape also improves your infotainment experience, an important aspect of modern driving that most will appreciate.
On the other hand, the 2022 Ford Escape also has its benefits. If you’re looking to save a little money, this just might be the small crossover for you. Compared to the current model year, the 2022 Escape’s hybrid powertrain delivers a little extra fuel economy.