2023 Ford Escape Review

Price Range: $18,898 - $29,999

Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV Exterior

The 2023 Ford Escape is more competitive after its latest refresh. Updated sheetmetal gives the exterior a more distinctive and expressive design, and an updated entertainment interface keeps Ford's compact SUV competitive in its class. We give the Escape high marks for its comfortable ride and easy-to-use tech, but the non-electrified powertrains still make the hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions more appealing.

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2023 Ford Escape Review

Pros

Roomy and comfortable seating
Smooth ride quality
Easy-to-use controls
Available hybrid powertrain that gets around 40 mpg

Cons

Transmission's abrupt shifts
Lackluster handling

What's new

Revised front and rear styling
New Sync 4 infotainment system with larger touchscreen options
New trim levels across lineup and feature availability
Part of the fourth Escape generation introduced for 2020

2023 Ford Escape Video Shorts

by Edmunds Test Team

Overview

Written by automotive expert Ronald Montoya

1/6/2023

The 2023 Ford Escape is a compact crossover SUV that's both one of Ford's most popular vehicles and one of the best-selling crossovers around today. Slotting below the larger Ford Edge and a rival to the well-known Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the Escape offers multiple powertrains — gas, hybrid and plug-in hybrid — plenty of in-car tech, and a variety of standard and available driver aids. We've found the Escape to be comfortable and roomy, and that hybrid powertrain nets some impressive fuel economy.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

For sale near San Antonio, TX

2,639 listings

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2023 Ford Escape
Active 4dr SUV
$14,995
great price
- 61,102 miles
- No accidents, 1 owner, personal use only
- 5 Seats, 26 City / 32 Hwy MPG
- AutoNation Ford Katy (172 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Upgraded Headlights
Close
Located in Katy, TX
Tech Pack #1Navigation SystemLane Keeping AssistKeyless StartRear SpoilerDaytime Running Lamps (Drl)Agate Black MetallicEbony; Unique Cloth Fro...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
28 Combined MPG (26 City/32 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 1FMCU9GNXPUA57523
Stock: PUA57523
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 07-15-2025
Certified 2023 Ford Escape
ST-Line 4dr SUV
$21,983
good price
- 13,252 miles
- 1 accident, 1 owner, personal use only
- 5 Seats, 27 City / 34 Hwy MPG
- Group 1 Ford of South Austin (71 mi away)
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Upgraded Headlights
- Blind Spot Monitorin...
Close
Located in Austin, TX
FUEL EFFICIENT 34 MPG Hwy/27 MPG City! Ford Gold Certified, Excellent Condition, ONLY 13,252 Miles! Heated Seats, NAV, Blind Spot Monitor, Brake Actua...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: Yes
Features and Specs:
30 Combined MPG (27 City/34 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 1FMCU0MN6PUA84363
Stock: PUA84363
Certified Pre-Owned: Yes
Listed since: 08-19-2025

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For 2023, the Escape receives a significant refresh, with a new look in front and back, the new Sync 4 infotainment system, and an entire lineup that's been overhauled, with new trim levels and slightly different engine and feature availability. The new styling should be an upgrade for most shoppers, as it gives the small SUV a stronger presence with its more upright and squared-off front end. On the inside, the larger infotainment screens not only look more modern, they're also easier to use.

The Escape has rivals from just about every corner. Some of Edmunds' favorites include the CR-V, Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-5 and Nissan Rogue. Ford itself offers a wide array of SUVs as it's shifted its focus away from car production. Besides the Escape and Edge, Ford also offers the Bronco Sport, which is based on the Escape but has a more rugged, outdoorsy persona. Overall, we like the Escape and think it's worth checking out if you're shopping for a small SUV with a satisfying mix of features, comfort and utility. Check out the Expert Rating below to get our test team's full take on the Escape's utility, comfort and more.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

by the Edmunds Experts

Good

7.8

out of 10

We drove the 2023 Ford Escape on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Performance

7/10

How does the Escape drive? We tested the Escape ST-Line Elite with the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. This motor makes plenty of power, allowing it to easily squirt through traffic and accelerate up to highway speeds. In Edmunds' testing, our Escape covered 0-60 mph in 6.8 seconds, which is better than rival small SUVs with an upgraded engine.

Unfortunately, the eight-speed automatic transmission shifts slowly and can be jerky with its upshifts. Downshifts are similar, and you'll feel multiple small shocks as you decelerate. Even the engine stop-start system bucks the Escape when it restarts the engine as you take your foot off the brake. It all feels terribly unrefined and like something that Ford should have fixed before putting the Escape on sale.

The Escape's handling is disappointing too. It rolls a lot and has a ponderous feel as you go around turns. There's not much grip from the tires either. As for the steering, it's very light and low-effort in the default drive mode. Selecting Sport mode gives it more heft and makes it easier to figure out where the front wheels are pointed.

Comfort

8/10

How comfortable is the Escape? Overall, we're happy with the level of comfort the Escape offers. The front seats are well shaped and have a pleasing amount of cushioning. The rear seats are also comfortable and provide a suitable amount of thigh support for adults.

Around town and on the highway, the Escape rides in a smooth and composed manner. It's also fairly quiet at speed, with road noise the prevailing source of sound intrusion. A dual-zone climate control system is now on the options list. Unfortunately, ventilated front seats and heated rears remain unavailable on any Escape trim.

Interior

8/10

How’s the interior? The Escape's cabin is functional and pleasantly laid out. The primary controls are easy to reach, and the steering wheel buttons take no time to decipher. The Sync 3 touchscreen interface is snappy and simple to operate as well but also grows to integrate more functions into the touchscreen. Tech-savvy buyers might appreciate the giant tablet display, while others might miss physical climate controls. The driver's seat gives you a commanding view outward, and it's only mildly impeded by the rising beltline toward the rear. The seat itself offers numerous adjustments that make it a cinch to dial in the perfect position. On the downside, the door armrests are a touch too narrow.

We're impressed by the Escape's use of space inside. There's plenty of room all around, and the deeply sculpted front seatbacks afford rear passengers lots of knee room. Headroom might run out for very tall rear occupants on models with the panoramic sunroof. Other than the tall doorsills, there are no issues getting into or out of the Escape.

Technology

8.5/10

How’s the tech? The Ford Escape's infotainment system is a highlight. The navigation setup is easy to use and quick to act, but oddly the newest version doesn't show you directional info when a point-of-interest search returns multiple locations (e.g., a Starbucks is 1 mile forward, or 0.5 mile to the left), as the pre-refresh version did. The standard six-speaker audio system is excellent for a base system, producing clear audio and punchy bass. The optional 10-speaker B&O system is even more impressive for this price class. Smartphone integration is excellent, and every model comes with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and plenty of powerpoints throughout the cabin.

The driving aids work well and almost all are standard. The lane centering feature works quite well on the highway, avoiding the "ping-ponging between the lanes" effect found on many rivals.

Storage

8/10

How’s the storage? The Escape, compared to most compact SUVs, has a cargo area that's a little smaller, at 33.5 cubic feet. We like the low floor and high seatbacks, affording you a lot of vertical storage space before luggage cuts into rear visibility. The rear seats don't fold flat, but the outboard seat belts can be disengaged from their seat holsters so there's no obstruction while loading cargo.

Interior storage is much better, with large cubbies in the front and sizable door pockets in the back. All cupholders have anti-tip tabs, which is fairly uncommon in this vehicle class. Easily accessible car seat anchors and tethers, plus the large rear seat, make it a breeze to load a child safety seat.

Escape models with the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine can tow up to 3,500 pounds, which is typical for the segment.

Fuel Economy

7/10

How’s the fuel economy? The Escape with the turbo 2.0-liter engine, which is what we tested, gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg combined. This is better than other small SUVs with similarly potent engines. Though the estimates are stellar, our observed fuel economy with our test vehicle fell short of expectations. We averaged just 20.2 mpg in our own real-world testing.

Value

7.5/10

Is the Escape a good value? The Escape's interior has plenty of soft-touch plastics up front, while hard plastics are generally silver, gloss black or otherwise textured in a way that shows effort. The synthetic leather upholstery on lower trims is surprisingly convincing, though the genuine leather on our tester was too stiff to be comfortable. The panel gaps are a little inconsistent and the interior door handles feel inexcusably cheap, but overall it's an appealing cabin for the price.

Ford's pricing is competitive with other small SUVs with potent turbocharged engines, and revisions to the features structure over the years add value throughout the Escape lineup. (Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard, for instance.) Ford offers basic warranty coverage for three years/36,000 miles, with powertrain coverage and roadside assistance for five years/60,000 miles. All are average for the class.

Wildcard

7.5/10

The Escape has a fairly distinctive exterior and the ST-Line variants lend a sporty flair to the interior. The cabin is less immediately impressive if you select one of the non-ST variants, but after living with the Escape for a while, you'll appreciate how effortlessly usable it is. Oddly, the 2.0-liter turbo powertrain is the letdown here, with the transmission never quite feeling at ease. This trim with the hybrid engine is probably the sweet spot.

2023 Ford Escape trim level differences

The 2023 Escape is a small SUV available in seven trim levels: Base, Active, PHEV, ST-Line, ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite and Platinum. There are four available powertrains, including a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid, within this lineup.

Which Escape trim does Edmunds recommend?

For most shoppers on a budget, the Active trim strikes the best balance between price and features by adding several convenience items not offered on the Base Escape. If you plan on keeping your Escape for more than five years while covering a lot of miles, it may make sense to step up to the ST-Line and its hybrid powertrain. It's possible the extra upfront cost could more than pay for itself over time.

Compare 2023 Ford Escape trim levels

Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Texas

$114/mo

$158/mo

Avg. Midsize SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

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Reliability

The 2023 Ford Escape has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 11 recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 4 out of 5, ranks it #14 out of 29 among Compact SUVs. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.

Reliability Rating by RepairPal

4 out of 5 stars4/5Above Average

#14 out of 29 among Compact SUVs

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

$480/yr

vs. $465/yr
for Average Compact SUV

Frequency

0.98x/yr

vs. 1x/yr
for Average Compact SUV

Severity

11.8%

vs. 11.5%
for Average Compact SUV

Recalls

11 recalls found

Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.

If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).

Recall Number:: 25V372000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 25S61
Number of vehicles affected:: 404
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Escape, and 2025 Bronco Sport vehicles. The cylinder head may have been improperly manufactured, which can cause the ball plugs to fail, resulting in an oil leak.
Defect Consequence:: An oil leak can result in loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, an oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will replace the cylinder head assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed June 23, 2025. Second letters will be sent once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S61.

Recall Number:: 25V345000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 25S54
Number of vehicles affected:: 1797
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Escape, 2021-2023 Corsair, and 2022-2023 Maverick vehicles equipped with 2.5L HEV or PHEV engines that were repaired incorrectly under recall 23V380. In the event of an engine failure, engine oil and fuel vapor may be released into the engine compartment and accumulate near ignition sources such as hot engine or exhaust components, possibly resulting in an engine compartment fire.
Defect Consequence:: An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
Corrective Action:: Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as quickly as possible if they hear unexpected engine noises, notice a reduction in vehicle power, or see smoke. Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 23, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S54.

Recall Number:: 25V343000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 25S52
Manufactured from:: 2024-07-29 to 2025-05-07
Number of vehicles affected:: 6781
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Lincoln Nautilus, 2023-2025 Escape, 2023 Lincoln Corsair, 2025 Lincoln Corsair, Maverick, and Bronco Sport vehicles equipped with a 1.5L or 2.0L MPC engine and an engine block heater. The engine block heater may overheat when the vehicle is parked with the block heater plugged in.
Defect Consequence:: An overheated engine block heater can increase the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will replace the engine block heater element and inspect the electrical cord, replacing it if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed June 6, 2025. Second letters will be mailed once the remedy is available, anticipated for 4th quarter 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S52.

Recall Number:: 25V315000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 25S49
Manufactured from:: 2021-06-04 to 2025-03-13
Number of vehicles affected:: 1075299
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco, F-150, 2021-2024 Edge, 2023-2024 Escape, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, F-600, 2022-2024 Expedition, 2022-2025 Transit, 2021-2023 Mach-E, 2024 Ranger, Mustang, 2021-2023 Lincoln Nautilus, 2022-2024 Navigator, and 2023-2024 Corsair vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera image to delay, freeze, or not display when the vehicle is in reverse.
Defect Consequence:: A frozen or missing rearview camera image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: The accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air update, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed June 16, 2025. A second letter will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated for third quarter 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S49.

Recall Number:: 24V954000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 24S79
Manufactured from:: 2019-07-10 to 2024-04-17
Number of vehicles affected:: 20484
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Ford Escape, and 2021-2024 Lincoln Corsair vehicles. A manufacturing defect in one or more of the high voltage battery cells may result in an internal short circuit and battery failure.
Defect Consequence:: Battery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Battery failure can also increase the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action:: Owners are advised not to charge battery till the remedy has been completed. Dealers will perform a battery energy control module (BECM) software update, and replace the high voltage battery pack, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 30, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S79.

Recall Number:: 24V852000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 24C39
Manufactured from:: 2019-07-29 to 2024-09-13
Number of vehicles affected:: 27678
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be missing from the dashboard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirement Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Defect Consequence:: Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Ford will mail owners the warning labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C39.

Recall Number:: 24V634000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 24S54
Manufactured from:: 2024-05-31 to 2024-07-10
Number of vehicles affected:: 24
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023 Lincoln Corsair, 2023-2024 Escape, 2024 Mustang, and 2025 Explorer vehicles. The fuel injectors may have been assembled without O-ring support discs, which can result in a fuel leak.
Defect Consequence:: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will install new fuel injector O-rings and O-ring support discs, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 7, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S54.

Recall Number:: 24V440000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 24S39
Manufactured from:: 2023-04-19 to 2023-11-09
Number of vehicles affected:: 209
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Escape two-wheel drive vehicles equipped with adaptive cruise control. The cruise control radar module was misaligned during production.
Defect Consequence:: Misalignment of the radar module can result in the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) misclassifying an overhead object as an object in the vehicle's path, causing the vehicle to unexpectedly slow and/or stop. Other safety systems that depend on the radar model (Pre-Collision Assist, Forward Collision Warning, and Auto Emergency Braking) could have diminished or lost function. These conditions increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will adjust the angle of the radar module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 3, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S39.

Recall Number:: 23V506000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 23C25
Number of vehicles affected:: 38695
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023 Escape, Super Duty F-250, Super Duty F-350, Super Duty F-450, and Super Duty F-550 vehicles equipped with a digital instrument panel cluster. The module may have been improperly soldered, preventing the instrument panel from illuminating. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 101, "Control and Displays."
Defect Consequence:: An inoperable instrument panel cannot show critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, which may increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will replace the module or instrument panel as necessary, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed on September 11, 2023. A second letter will be sent when parts are available, anticipated 4th Quarter 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23C25.

Recall Number:: 23V380000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 23S27
Number of vehicles affected:: 125322
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Escape, 2022-2023 Maverick, and 2021-2023 Corsair vehicles equipped with 2.5L HEV or PHEV engines. In the event of an engine failure, engine oil and fuel vapor may be released into the engine compartment and accumulate near ignition sources such as hot engine or exhaust components, possibly resulting in an engine compartment fire.
Defect Consequence:: An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
Corrective Action:: Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as quickly as possible if they hear unexpected engine noises, notice a reduction in vehicle power, or see smoke. The remedy is currently under development. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed June 23, 2023. Second letters will be mailed once the remedy is available, anticipated November 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S27. This recall expands and replaces recall number 22V-484. Vehicles previously repaired under 22V-484 will need to have the new remedy completed.

Recall Number:: 22V859000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 22S73
Number of vehicles affected:: 521746
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Escape and 2021-2023 Bronco Sport vehicles equipped with 1.5L engines. A fuel injector may crack and leak fuel inside the engine compartment.
Defect Consequence:: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will update the engine control software to include fuel injector leak detection and install a drain tube, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed January 9, 2023. Remedy parts are expected to be available in 1st Quarter of 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed February 28, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S73. This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under 22V-191. Vehicles previously remedied under 22V-191 will need to have the new remedy performed.

Warranty

3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 5 years / unlimited miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles

Ford Escape Owner Reviews

3.5

33 reviews

5(37%)

4(21%)

3(12%)

2(18%)

1(12%)

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Hybird efficent, smooth handling, tech new styling

Bill Hamel, 06/30/2023

2023 Ford Escape ST-Line Elite 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid EVT)

I have owned my 2023 Escape ST-Elite Hybrid AWD for over a month now and I have put many highway miles on it, as well as city here in Chicago. I am comparing this to my recent 2021 Escape SE trade-in and my wife's 2018 Toyota RAV4. I like the Escape already more than the RAV4 even with the updated styling after 2019. I am pleasantly surprised by both the city and highway fuel economy. …

Great Commuter Car

VA Matt, 08/24/2023

2023 Ford Escape Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid EVT)

I traded in my 2009 Ford Escape for a 2023 AWD Platinum Hybrid, and could not be happier with the mileage I'm getting. Though rated for 42/36 (city/hwy), I'm getting 56 mph commuting in considerable rush-hour traffic. I used to loathe traffic, but with great mileage and lots of comforting tech, returning to the office full-time is less of a hassle. UPDATE: I’ve been exceeding the …

2023 Escape PHEV Above and Beyond EPA Estimates!

Riverview, 09/06/2023

2023 Ford Escape ST-Line Elite 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid EVT)

When my 2007 standard transmission Pontiac Vibe passed the 160,000 mile mark, I knew it was time to start shopping for a new car. I wanted all the latest safety features and I wanted an electric/gas hybrid that would get me around town on electric-only but have a gasoline option for long trips. The Escape Plug-in Hybrid turned out to be the perfect choice. I wanted safety features. I … got more safety features than I knew existed: a backup camera (displayed on a 12" screen!), side mirror defrost, blind spot monitor, lane centering, adaptive cruise control, a pedestrian warning signal, and much more. As for fuel efficiency, the EPA estimated a driving range of 38 miles per a full electric charge and a gasoline-only average of 40 MPG. My car significantly exceeds both. I get an estimated 44 to 47 miles per 100% charge. At 11.5 kWh total for a 0-to-100% charge, I'm paying roughly $0.80 ( yes, 80 cents) per home charge. Yes, it does take about 11 hours to charge on a 120V outlet, but that's fine for my schedule. My local power company offers a rebate on installing a 240V home-charging system, so I may do that if my schedule changes. As for gas mileage, on my first long trip (500+ miles) the trip computer reported that my Escape averaged 45 MPH, just about what many non-plug-in battery hybrids average. But what about the ride? The ride is quiet, tight, and responsive. And this Escape has more than enough pep to hold its own on the Interstate. Ask the Tesla in the next lane. Because of high demand for the 2023 Escape Plug-in Hybrid, Ford produced only two packages: the loaded and the premium loaded.* If you want leather seats, a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, zillion-way adjustable driver and passenger seats, etc., go for the premium package. I didn't. Six speakers are more than enough for me and the vinyl seats are just as comfortable as the leather ones in the model I test drove. The cargo space in both packages is the same, more than enough to hold 20 bags of mulch or a dorm-size refrigerator. I've carried both in my Vibe, though not at the same time 🙂. Are there things about the Escape PHEV I don't like? Well, yes. Where the heck is the printed user's guide? The online/FordPass app guide is buggy, awkward and inconvenient to use. And it will be of no use at all in the rural areas that are still on dial-up just beyond where I live. Minor annoyances: the back seats don't fold down entirely flat, so loading my bike in the cargo space is more awkward than it needs to be. And after I open the driver's side door to get in, I need to readjust the power seat because it's never as far back as I left it when I exited. The old manual seat controls were so much faster. And they didn't play tricks. * The Edmunds review form doesn't offer the PHEV 700A "trim" as an option. The 2023 PHEV does not come in an AWD model. It's FWD only, but the 2022 ST-Elite trim is the best match for the PHEV 700A non-premium option. In short, for 2023 there's the PHEV 700A package and the 700A+Premium Tech package.

Battery has limitations and degradation

Larrymay, 12/23/2023

2023 Ford Escape Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid EVT)

I personally love the car itself...smooth ride, good power, great handling. I have had it for 3 months. Purchased on September 1st when temperatures were warm. Now after three months and colder temperatures I find battery capacity have reduced significantly. None of this was disclosed prior to purchase. I spoke to the local Ford service Mgr. and he says this is standard. When I …

See all 33 reviews of the Ford Escape

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2023 Escape Highlights

Type:

SUV

Trim:

Base

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$28,000
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	30 MPG
Cost to Drive	$114/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	37.5 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the Escape models:

Evasive Steering Assist: Provides additional steering effort to avoid a potential collision if it can't be prevented by braking alone.
Lane Keeping System: Alerts the driver when the car starts to drift out of its lane by vibrating the steering wheel and adding correctional steering if needed.
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS): Illuminates an indicator light in the side mirror when a vehicle enters the blind spot. Also includes integrated rear cross-traffic alert.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover16.9%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Good
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Marginal
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good

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2023 Ford Escape Review

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