So, what exactly is the difference between the 2024 Ford Escape and 2023 Ford Escape? As it turns out, these two compact crossovers have more in common than not! Whichever Escape ends up in your driveway, you can count on rich interior comfort, modern tech features, and a smooth yet potent ride. But since you’re here, we’re happy to point out the few differences you will find between these models.
Key Takeaways
- The 2023 Escape introduced new trim levels, updated styling, and the SYNC 4 infotainment system. You’ll find these same features on the 2024 Escape, but this model didn’t add any new items.
- These compact crossovers share the same roomy, comfortable cabin and available features, including premium options.
- Both Escape model years offer your choice of three powertrains.
- The 2024 Escape has a slightly higher MSRP, though not by much!
New Features
For 2024, the Escape Base trim model is no longer available, leaving only the Active, PHEV, ST-Line, ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite, and Platinum. The 2023 Escape is available as all of the aforementioned trim models. In fact, that’s the only major difference between these two model years! Because the 2023 Escape offers the Base model, it gives you the opportunity to save a little money on a new compact crossover.
Everyday Comfort & Convenience
Both small crossovers treat you to a smooth, quiet drive and a roomy cabin. Inside, you’ll discover long-term support, thanks to the Escape’s nicely shaped seats and generous cushioning. These model years come standard with coveted features, including the SYNC 4 infotainment system and Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of safety aids.
Since the 2024 Escape discontinued the Base model, its entry-level trim, the Active, comes standard with a longer list of features. These include dual-zone automatic climate control and a power liftgate!
Both the 2023 and 2024 Ford Escape come standard with these comfort and tech features:
- Cloth seating
- Height-adjustable driver’s seat
- SYNC 4 with 8-inch touchscreen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Wi-Fi hotspot capability
- Ford Co-Pilot360 package (with blind-spot warning, forward collision mitigation, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic high beams)
The entry-level 2024 Escape’s base Active model adds to the above items with this standard features:
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Keyless entry and ignition
- Dual Smart Charging USB ports
- Satellite radio
- Power liftgate
- Dark tinted rear windows
As you climb each Escape’s trim levels, you can enjoy more tech and comfort features. Highlights include:
- Leather upholstery
- Faux-leather upholstery
- Driver’s seat memory settings
- Heated front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen
- Built-in Connected navigation
- 10-speaker B&O sound system by Bang & Olufsen
- Wireless smartphone charging pad
- Remote ignition
- Head-up display
- Ambient interior lighting
- Panoramic sunroof
- Roof rails
- LED fog lights
- Adaptive cruise control
- Evasive steering assistance
- Surround-view camera system
Punchy Power
Each of these Escape model years offers the same four engine options, depending on which trim model you select. All options are designed to provide plenty of pick-up, making it easy to get up to speed or pass a slow driver. And every version of these Escapes is available with all-wheel drive, the perfect upgrade for anyone who plans to stray down light trails or travel slick roads.
Although the EPA hasn’t released figures for the 2024 Escape, we don’t expect to see any major diversions from the 2023 ratings. The most efficient Escape powertrain, found in the PHEV trim model, earns 101 MPGe. The hybrid engine, optional for top Escape trims, is the second-most efficient, earning up to 39 mpg combined.
Depending on trim model, you can choose from these engine options in either the 2023 or 2024 Escape:
- Base, Active, ST-Line: Turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine (180 horsepower, 199 lb-ft of torque)
- ST-Line, ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite, Platinum: Turbo 2.0L four-cylinder (250 hp, 280 lb-ft)
- Optional for the ST-Line and up: 2.5L hybrid four-cylinder powertrain (192 hp, 155 lb-ft)
- PHEV: 2.5L plug-in hybrid four-cylinder powertrain (210 hp, 155 lb-ft)
Price
The 2024 Escape is the slightly more expensive option, starting at $29,495. The 2023 Escape starts at $28,000. However, the 2023 Escape Active trim model, which is more comparable to the entry-level 2024 Escape, starts at $29,345. No matter which Escape you select, the price of your specific model will vary depending on trim level, equipment, and other factors.
Your New Escape
If you’re hoping to save as much money as possible on a new compact crossover, check out the 2023 Escape’s Base model. Otherwise, though, there aren’t any major differences between the pair. If your friendly Ford dealership has new 2023 and 2024 Escape models, you should treat them as equally enticing!