Which is more your speed, the 2022 Ford Escape or the 2023 Ford Escape? Is there even any difference between these small crossover SUVs? In fact, there is! Ford rolled out quite a few updates for its 2023 Escape. However, the 2022 Escape is still worth your time, and just might be the crossover you prefer. Let’s take a closer look at each model.
Key Takeaways
- The 2023 Ford Escape comes with the latest infotainment system, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also introduces a new list of trim models.
- Most Escape powertrains are available for either trim model, with one exception: the plug-in hybrid engine.
- The 2022 and 2023 Escape trim models let you choose the collection of features you want at a price that suits your budget. However, each model year offers a different list of trim models.
- These crossovers’ price tags differ slightly, and the 2023 Escape MSRP is slightly higher than that of the 2022 model.
New Features
Compared to the previous model years, the 2023 Ford Escape offers some significant updates. For starters, it comes standard with the new SYNC 4 infotainment system, which improves your overall experience with a faster processor and the wireless versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The latest Escape also introduces a new list of trim models, organizing features differently compared to the 2022 Escape.
Powertrain Options
When it comes to powertrain options, there’s only one main difference between these model years: the 2023 Escape is available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain, and the 2022 Escape is not.
For either crossover, the most powerful option is the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. It also comes standard with all-wheel drive, creating a very sporty drive overall. Throughout the rest of the powertrain lineup, all-wheel drive is optional, with one exception. The plug-in hybrid is only available with front-wheel drive!
The Escape powertrain options include:
- 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
- 2.5L four-cylinder plug-in hybrid powertrain (210 total hp, 155 lb-ft) and CVT (front-wheel drive only)
Trim Models
2023 Ford Escape
For 2023, the Escape introduces a new collection of trim models: Base, Active, ST-Line, ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite, Platinum, and PHEV.
Base
This entry-level Escape is handsomely equipped with infotainment features and safety aids.
- Cloth seating
- SYNC 4 with 8-inch touchscreen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Six-speaker sound system
- Forward collision mitigation
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane-keeping assist
- Automatic high beams
Active
Upgrade to the Active for more in modern convenience and style.
- Keyless entry and ignition
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Dual rear-seat USB ports
- Chrome exterior trim
- Power liftgate
ST-Line
The ST-Line builds on the Active features with a sportier lineup.
- Flat-bottom steering wheel
- Partial faux-leather and cloth upholstery
- Roof rails
- Underbody skid plates
ST-Line Select
This model adds to the ST-Line with extra comfort features and performance gear, including standard all-wheel drive.
- Remote ignition
- Heated front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- LED fog lamps
- All-wheel drive
ST-Line Elite
This is the most luxurious ST-Line trim level, with a cabin that’s both more comfortable and increasingly tech-savvy than that of lesser models.
- Driver’s seat memory settings
- 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen
- Navigation
- Wireless smartphone charging
- Ambient interior lighting
- LED headlamps
- Adaptive cruise control
- Evasive steering assist
- Surround-view camera system
Platinum
The top-of-the-line 2023 Escape adds to the ST-Line Elite features with a few upgrades.
- Faux-leather upholstery
- Universal garage door opener
PHEV
This is the only Escape available with the plug-in hybrid powertrain. And it’s also pretty luxurious, with a wide range of cushy features and tech upgrades.
- Partial faux-leather and cloth upholstery
- Heated front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen
- Navigation
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane-keeping system
- Evasive steering assist
2022 Ford Escape
There are four 2022 Escape trim models: the base S, mid-level SE, sporty SEL, and top-of-the-line Titanium. They actually offer many of the same features as the 2023 model, including important safety aids and coveted conveniences, like remote ignition.
S
The entry-level S is a little more basic than the 2023 Escape’s base model, but it does include lots of driver safety aids.
- 4.2-inch central display
- Six-speaker sound system
- Forward collision mitigation
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane-keeping assist
SE
The SE upgrades your ride with smartphone-friendly infotainment and keyless ignition, among other conveniences.
- Keyless entry and ignition
- SYNC 3 with 8-inch touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Dual rear-seat USB ports
- Chrome exterior trim
SEL
This 2022 Escape adds sporty and upscale features, from heated front seats to roof rails.
- Faux-leather upholstery
- Heated front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Fog lamps
- Roof rails
- Power liftgate
Titanium
The top-trim 2022 Escape includes premium audio and stylish details, like ambient interior lighting.
- 10-speaker B&O premium sound system
- Wireless smartphone charging pad
- Ambient interior lighting
- LED headlights and foglights
- Roof rails
- Chrome exterior trim
- Adaptive cruise control
- Optional leather upholstery
MSRP
These small crossovers have nearly the same MSRP, though the 2022 Escape is slightly more affordable, starting at $27,185. The 2023 Escape MSRP is only slightly more expensive, with an MSRP of $28,000
Choose Your Escape
In the end, the 2022 Ford Escape offers you a slightly lower price tag. It offers less trim models, but has many of the same features you’ll find on the newer model, including the thrifty hybrid engine and the speedy turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.
On the other hand, if you’re willing to spend a little more money, the 2023 Ford Escape offers updated infotainment gear, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This new Escape also offers an incredibly thrifty plug-in hybrid powertrain and a wider range of trim models!