Which is better, the 2024 Ford Escape or 2023 Ford Escape? Exactly how different are these compact crossovers, anyway? Before you head to your local dealership, our comparison guide will help you figure out which Escape you and your family will love the most.
Key Takeaways
- After a mid-cycle refresh for 2023, the 2024 Escape only makes one big change, dropping the Base model from its trim lineup.
- Depending on which Escape engine you select, either of these model years can deliver up to 40 mpg combined!
- The 2023 Escape offers seven trim models: Base, Active, PHEV, ST-Line, ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite, and Platinum. The 2024 Escape drops the Base model, but otherwise offers the same trim models.
- You can get the 2023 Escape (starting at $28,000) at a slightly lower price than the 2024 Escape (starting at $29,495).
Model Year Updates
Ford gave its 2023 Escape a mid-cycle refresh, introducing new exterior style, tech updates, and a new list of trim models. Tech updates include Ford’s latest infotainment system, SYNC 4, which is now standard equipment, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The 2024 Escape retains all the previous year’s updates. However, it’s no longer available with the Base trim model. This means the 2024 Escape’s starting price has gone up, but also that these models come standard with more comfort and tech features.
Escape EPA Ratings
Although the EPA ratings for the 2024 Escape haven’t been released yet, we don’t expect those figures to change. Therefore, both Escapes achieve up to 40 mpg combined, compliments of the Escape PHEV trim model. The Escape’s next most-efficient option is the available hybrid powertrain, which earns up to 39 mpg combined and is more widely available throughout the Escape trim lineup!
No matter which of these Escape model years you select, you can choose from four engine options. Engine availability varies accord to trim model:
- Base, Active, and ST-Line: Turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine (180 horsepower, 199 lb-ft of torque)
- ST-Line, ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite, and Platinum: Turbo 2.0L four-cylinder (250 hp, 280 lb-ft)
- Optional for ST-Line, ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite, and Platinum: 2.5L hybrid four-cylinder (192 hp, 155 lb-ft)
- PHEV: 2.5L plug-in hybrid four-cylinder (210 hp, 155 lb-ft)
Trim Models & Features
The 2023 Escape is available as seven trim models: Base, Active, ST-Line ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite, Platinum, and PHEV. While the 2024 Escape drops the Base model, the rest of its trim lineup remains the same.
Both Escape model years come standard with the SYNC 4 infotainment system, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. And every trim model also includes the Ford Co-Pilot360 safety package, which includes systems designed to help you avoid an accident, including blind-spot warning and forward collision mitigation. Of course, since the Active is the 2024 Escape’s entry-level model, that technically means you’ll enjoy a longer list of standard features, including dual-zone automatic climate control and a power-adjustable driver’s seat.
For both Escapes, moving up the trim levels comes with some exciting upgrades, including a bigger, 13.2-inch central touchscreen, built-in navigation, and adaptive cruise control. Near the top of the heap, the ST-Line Elite treats you to a wireless smartphone charging pad and driver’s seat memory settings. The Platinum adds to those goodies with stylish ActiveX upholstery. Leather seating with quilting design and mini-perforation is also available for the Platinum!
Starting Price
After dropping the base model from its trim lineup, the 2024 Ford Escape became a little more expensive, starting at $29,495. But the 2024 Escape’s new entry-level trim model, the Active, gives you more for your money, with standard dual-zone automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a power liftgate!
Of course, if you want to spend less on a new Escape, it’s possible! Since the 2023 Escape still includes the Base trim model in its lineup, its MSRP is substantially lower, starting at $28,000.
Your New Escape
When you special-order a new Escape, you’ll purchase the newest available model, the 2024 Escape. However, if Jones Ford North Charleston has both model years available for you to test-drive, we recommend checking them both out. After all, the main difference between them is whether they offer the Base trim model!