Ford announced to build a new model of Escape crossover with 2017 version. Its camouflage photographs show the style changes appeared in this car's mid-cycle refresh. Its current version debuted almost at the same time when Ford Focus had arrived with its hatchback and sedan form in 2013. All of these models hold same platforms. The new Escape still looks really lovely and the crossover look is making it even lovelier compared to other Ford lineup models.
From its images, it looks even better than the updated versions of Fiesta, Focus & Fusion sedan.
Since it is coming with a typical refreshed mid cycle, so it is considered to be a little late model for 2017. It will arrive next year, making a four year gap from last launch. Ford does not look like to be in a hurry to spend a lot on it or to bring it earlier because each year from its first release it managed to increase its rate of sale. It made 261,008 sales in 2012, 306,212 units in 2014. However, Ford still decides to bring its updated version to give a stronger competitive to Mazda's CX-5 & Chevrolet's Equinox. Also Toyota's RAV4 & Honda's CR-V are gaining a lot of popularity which should be counter attacked from a brand like Ford.
There won't be huge changes in the new front driven platform based Escape. Its images prove this SUV has a restyled rear and front end having a lot of changes at the front. The headlights have become elliptical, upper grille gone thinner, lower air intake got larger. There is a larger grille on top having horizontal bars with thinner headlights. The metamorphosis brings Escapes face perfectly with new Ford Explorer & Edge. However, it adopts a few changes from the 2015 Ford Focus.
As per the pictures of new Ford Escape, its tail seems to cover up very well, making the specific changes not visible clearly. However, some sheet metals are clearly visible used for lift gate. Just like the new Focus got minor changes in its interior, similarly upcoming Escape has a new infotainment system of Sync 3. It also changed those old touch buttons with harder knobs & buttons.
Looking at today's power train requirement, the 2017 Escape has perfect configuration. The previous model had 2.5 L four cylinders making 168 HP with an optional turbocharged 1.6 L four. Most of the buyers opted for this optional 1.6 which made Ford drop this engine from Fusion's power train lineup as enough supplies was not possible. Top Dog Escape comes with 240 HP turbo 2.0 L four cylinders and either all or front wheel drive on each trim level. Current Escapes have got six speed auto, but it may have a new automatic since another year is left for its release.
As far as competition is concerned, it will compete strongly against Honda's CR-V, Chevrolet's Equinox, Jeep Cherokee, Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5. Its a fresh view should be shown later in this year, but it will hit dealership not before than next year. Price will be around $23,855 which is its current version's base price.