How different are the 2023 Ford Escape and 2022 Ford Escape? Ford gave its compact crossover SUV a mid-cycle refresh for the 2023 model year, which includes increasingly rugged exterior style, a new trim model lineup, and updated tech features. Our comparison guide gives you a better idea of how these two Escape model years stack up.
Price
Although the 2023 Ford Escape offers lots of new features, it doesn’t cost much more than the previous model, with an MSRP of $27,500. By comparison, the brand new 2022 Ford Escape starts at $27,185.
Escape Trim Models
In addition to a rugged new exterior design, the 2023 Ford Escape also introduces a new trim model lineup. Shoppers can now choose from seven options: Base, Active, ST-Line, ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite, Platinum, and Plug-In Hybrid. This new setup offers a wider range of luxury options, leaving you to decide how much you want to spend on more power and a stylish cabin.
The 2022 Ford Escape is available as four trim models: S, SE, SEL, and Titanium. The Titanium really sets itself apart from the rest with its upscale features and peppy hybrid powertrain. However, the mid-level SE and sporty SEL also have a lot to offer, and do so with slightly lower price tags.
Comfort & Convenience
Because of these models’ different trim model hierarchies, features availability varies between them. However, these compact crossovers have most features in common. Available creature comforts include dual-zone automatic climate control, leather-trimmed upholstery, and heated front seats.
The 2023 Escape does offer one exciting new feature, SYNC 4, Ford’s newest infotainment system. It’s standard equipment, giving you an 8-inch or 13.2-inch touchscreen, depending on trim model. SYNC 4 also includes the wireless versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity.
By comparison, the 2022 Escape features the SYNC 3 system. It’s standard for all but the base model, and it comes with an 8-inch touchscreen and the wired-in versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Power & Performance
Although availability has changed somewhat, these two Ford Escapes offer the same four powertrains:
- Turbocharged 1.5L three-cylinder engine (181 horsepower, 190 lb-ft of torque)
- 2.5L hybrid four-cylinder powertrain (200 total hp, 155 lb-ft)
- 2.5L plug-in hybrid four-cylinder powertrain (221 total hp, 155 lb-ft)
- Turbo 2.0L four-cylinder engine (250 hp, 280 lb-ft)
Most 2022 Ford Escape trim models come standard with the turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine. The hybrid engine is standard for the Titanium and optional for the SE and SEL. The plug-in hybrid is available for the SE, SEL, and Titanium. The peppiest option, the turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, is optional for the SEL and Titanium.
The 2023 Ford Escape comes standard with the same engine. However, the 2.0-liter four-cylinder powers the ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite, and Platinum models. The hybrid powertrain is optional for all ST-Line trim models and the Platinum. There’s only one 2023 Escape that features the plug-in hybrid, the aptly named Plug-In Hybrid trim model.
Choose Your Ford Escape
Although there’s not much of a price difference between these crossovers, the 2023 Ford Escape gives you a lot more for your money. Not only does it make more luxury and greater power more widely available throughout the trim lineup, but the new Escape also features cooler style and the latest infotainment upgrades!