Makes›Ford›Escape›2023

2023 Ford Escape

Trims, performance, features, fuel economy, safety and known problems — with the pros and cons against similar 2023 models.

Ford Escape
Pictured: 2021 Ford Escape Hybrid SEL AWD in Oxford White, front left. Photo: Mr.choppers, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Class
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD
Body styles
4dr SUV 1.5l AWD, 4dr SUV 1.5l FWD, 4dr SUV 2.0l AWD, 4dr SUV 2.5l Hybrid AWD
Engines
2.5L 4-cyl, 1.5L 3-cyl turbo, 2.0L 4-cyl turbo
Transmission
e-CVT, 8-speed automatic
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive, Part-time 4-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Seats
5
Fuel
Plug-in Hybrid, Hybrid, Regular Gasoline
MPG (best)
40 combined · 42 city / 37 hwy
Length
180.7 in
Curb weight
3,283–3,904 lb
NHTSA rating
★★★★★
Recalls
13 campaigns

Pros & cons

What's good

  • Excellent fuel economyUp to 40 MPG combined — 46% better than the average 2023 small SUV (27.4 MPG).
  • Hybrid version availableOffered as a hybrid and plug-in hybrid as well as gas.
  • AWD / 4WD available
  • 5-star NHTSA safety ratingTop overall score in federal crash tests.
  • Lots of standard safety tech5 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.

Watch out for

  • 13 recallsMore than similar models (about 2). Confirm repairs with the VIN.

Calculated from EPA, NHTSA and vPIC data against 37 similar 2023 models — not a review. How we calculate this →

Overview

The 2023 Ford Escape is a small SUV offered with 3 engines (2.5L 4-cyl, 1.5L 3-cyl turbo and 2.0L 4-cyl turbo), including a hybrid version and front-wheel drive, part-time 4-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.

It measures about 181 inches long and 74 inches wide on a 107-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 3,419 lb (4dr SUV 1.5l AWD).

EPA rates its most efficient version at 40 MPG combined (42 city / 37 highway), 46% better than the 2023 small SUV average of 27.4 MPG, for an estimated $1,700 a year in fuel.

In NHTSA crash testing it earned the top 5-star overall rating.

It has 13 recall campaigns on file and owners have filed 138 complaints with NHTSA since 2015, most often about the electrical system.

What changed for 2023

No changes to engines, powertrains, drivetrains, size, EPA ratings or NHTSA crash rating compared with the 2022 Escape — a carry-over year in the data.

Compared with 2022; trim, feature and price changes aren't covered. See the 2022 Escape →

Trims, performance & features

Engine–2.5L 4-cyl plug-in hybrid
Engine–1.5L turbo
Transmissione-CVT · 8-speed automatic
DriveAWD/4WD
Seating5 seats · 2 rows

Trims

PHEVST LineActive

Safety & driver-assist features

Automatic emergency brakingStandard
Pedestrian emergency brakingStandard
Forward collision warningStandard
Blind-spot monitoringStandard
Rear cross-traffic alertStandard
Rear automatic brakingOptional
Lane departure warningStandard
Lane keeping assistStandard
Adaptive cruise controlStandard
Parking assistStandard
Backup cameraStandard
Automatic high beamsStandard
Keyless startStandard

Built in: Louisville, Kentucky

NHTSA vPIC, as reported by the manufacturer for 5 2023 Escape configurations; may not list every trim. How we calculate this →

Dimensions & weight

BodyLengthWidthHeightWheelbaseTrack F / RCurb weightWeight F/R
4dr SUV 1.5l AWD180.7 in74 in66.1 in106.7 in62.6 / 61.8 in3,419 lb58/42
4dr SUV 1.5l FWD180.7 in74 in66.1 in106.7 in62.6 / 61.8 in3,283 lb59/41
4dr SUV 2.0l AWD180.7 in74 in66.1 in106.7 in62.6 / 61.8 in3,543 lb58/42
4dr SUV 2.5l Hybrid AWD180.7 in74 in66.1 in106.7 in62.6 / 61.8 in3,904 lb58/42
4dr SUV 2.5l Hybrid FWD180.7 in74 in66.1 in106.7 in62.6 / 61.8 in3,519 lb59/41
4dr SUV 2.5l PHEV AWD180.7 in74 in66.1 in106.7 in62.6 / 61.8 in3,684 lb58/42

Transport Canada CVS (Open Government Licence – Canada), Canadian-market figures.

Will it fit your garage? Check with your measurements →

Engines, MPG & running costs

VersionEngineTransmissionDriveCity / Hwy / Combvs. classFuel / yrCO₂ g/mi
Escape FWD PHEV Plug-in Hybrid2.5L 4-cylAutomatic (variable gear ratios)Front-Wheel Drive42 / 37 / 40+46%$1,70052
Escape FWD HEV Hybrid2.5L 4-cylAutomatic (variable gear ratios)Front-Wheel Drive42 / 36 / 39+42%$1,700225
Escape AWD HEV Hybrid2.5L 4-cylAutomatic (variable gear ratios)Part-time 4-Wheel Drive42 / 36 / 39+56%$1,700225
Escape FWD1.5L 3-cyl turboAutomatic 8-spdFront-Wheel Drive27 / 34 / 30+9%$2,250299
Escape AWD1.5L 3-cyl turboAutomatic 8-spdAll-Wheel Drive26 / 32 / 28+12%$2,400317
Escape AWD2.0L 4-cyl turboAutomatic 8-spdAll-Wheel Drive23 / 31 / 26+4%$2,600340
9/10EPA fuel economy score (best version)
10/10EPA greenhouse gas score
Save $6,500Fuel over 5 years vs. average new car
27.4 MPG2023 Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD average

EPA estimates; "vs. class" is combined MPG against the 2023 EPA class average. How we calculate this →

Safety ratings & technology

VersionOverallFrontalDriver / passengerSideSide poleRolloverRollover risk
2023 Ford Escape SUV AWD★★★★★★★★★★5★ / 5★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★17.4%
2023 Ford Escape SUV FWD★★★★★★★★★★5★ / 5★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★16.9%
StandardElectronic stability control
StandardForward collision warning
StandardLane departure warning
Frontal crash test — 2023 Ford Escape SUV AWD
Frontal crash test — 2023 Ford Escape SUV AWD. Photo: NHTSA.
Side crash test — 2023 Ford Escape SUV AWD
Side crash test — 2023 Ford Escape SUV AWD. Photo: NHTSA.

Similar 2023 small SUVs

ModelBest MPG / rangeNHTSA overallRecalls
2023 Ford Escape (this car)40 MPG★★★★★13
2023 Toyota RAV440 MPG★★★★★3
2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime38 MPG★★★★★2
2023 Honda CR-V40 MPG★★★★★8
2023 Toyota 4Runner17 MPG★★★★★1
2023 Hyundai Tucson38 MPG★★★★★2
2023 Subaru Forester29 MPG★★★★★1

Recalls (13)

Electrical System › Propulsion System › Traction Battery · Feb 17, 2026

NHTSA campaign 26V091000 · 25,237 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Ford Escape and 2023-2026 Lincoln Corsair plug-in hybrid vehicles. A manufacturing defect in one or more of the high voltage battery cells may result in an internal short circuit and battery failure.
Risk
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.
Fix
Dealers will update the battery energy control module (BECM) and hybrid powertrain control module (HPCM) software, free of charge. Owners are advised to only use "Auto EV" mode and will be instructed by mail to limit the maximum charge of the battery until the remedy has been completed. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SC4. This recall expands previous recall numbers 24V954 and 25V489. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on February 18, 2026.
Electrical System › Propulsion System › Traction Battery · Nov 14, 2025

NHTSA campaign 25V789000 · 20,558 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Ford Escape and 2021-2024 Lincoln Corsair plug-in hybrid vehicles. A manufacturing defect in one or more of the high voltage battery cells may result in an internal short circuit and battery failure.
Risk
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.
Fix
Dealers will update the battery energy control module (BECM) and hybrid powertrain control module (HPCM), free of charge. Owners are advised to only use "Auto EV" mode and will be instructed by mail to limit the maximum charge of the battery until the remedy has been completed. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SC4. Vehicles in this recall were previously recalled under 24V954 and will need to have the new remedy performed. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on November 18, 2025.
Engine · Jun 3, 2025

NHTSA campaign 25V372000 · 404 vehicles

Problem
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.
Risk
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.
Fix
Dealers will replace the cylinder head assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 8, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S61.
Engine · May 23, 2025

NHTSA campaign 25V345000 · 1,809 vehicles

Problem
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.
Risk
An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
Fix
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 were mailed June 27, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S54.
Equipment › Electrical › Engine Block Heater · May 23, 2025

NHTSA campaign 25V343000 · 6,781 vehicles

Problem
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.
Risk
An overheated engine block heater can increase the risk of a fire.
Fix
Dealers will replace the block heater element and inspect the electrical cord, replacing it if necessary, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded blanking plug coupled, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Owner notification letters were mailed June 9, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S52.
Back Over Prevention › Software · May 9, 2025

NHTSA campaign 25V315000 · 1,076,138 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco, F-150, 2021-2024 Edge, 2022-2025 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.
Risk
A frozen or missing rearview camera image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
The accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air update, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model and model years. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on June 26, 2025. Additional letters will be mailed once the final remedy is available on each phase. Owner notification letters were sent on October 8, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S49.
Electrical System › Propulsion System › Traction Battery › Management System/Energy Control Module (Bms/Becm) · Dec 20, 2024

NHTSA campaign 24V954000 · 20,484 vehicles

Problem
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.
Risk
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.
Fix
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.
Equipment › Other › Labels · Nov 8, 2024

NHTSA campaign 24V852000 · 27,678 vehicles

Problem
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."
Risk
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.
Fix
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.
Fuel System, Gasoline › Fuel Injection System › Injectors · Aug 23, 2024

NHTSA campaign 24V634000 · 24 vehicles

Problem
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.
Risk
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Fix
Dealers will install new fuel injector O-rings and O-ring support discs, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 7, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S54.
Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control · Jun 14, 2024

NHTSA campaign 24V440000 · 209 vehicles

Problem
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.
Risk
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.
Fix
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.
Electrical System › Instrument Cluster/Panel · Jul 21, 2023

NHTSA campaign 23V506000 · 38,695 vehicles

Problem
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."
Risk
An inoperable instrument panel cannot show critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, which may increase the risk of a crash.
Fix
Dealers will replace the module or instrument panel as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on November 4, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23C25.
Engine · May 26, 2023

NHTSA campaign 23V380000 · 125,322 vehicles

Problem
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.
Risk
An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
Fix
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 replace the engine long-block in 2023 Escape and Corsair vehicles. For the other vehicles, dealers will update the powertrain control module software. If a connecting rod bearing failure is detected, dealers will replace the engine long-block. All inspections and repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 14, 2024. 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.
Fuel System, Gasoline › Fuel Injection System · Nov 18, 2022

NHTSA campaign 22V859000 · 521,746 vehicles

Problem
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.
Risk
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
Fix
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.
Check your VIN for open recalls at NHTSA ↗

Not every 2023 Ford Escape is affected — only a VIN check confirms your car.

Owner-reported problems

138Complaints to NHTSA since 2015
4Involved a crash
3Involved a fire
3Injuries reported
15,500 miTypical mileage at failure
Electrical System58
Engine33
Power Train25
Unknown Or Other18
Fuel/Propulsion System8
Vehicle Speed Control8
Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control7
Forward Collision Avoidance5
Complaints received per month (last 24 months with reports)
24/09: 124/11: 424/12: 525/01: 325/02: 225/03: 625/04: 525/05: 325/06: 525/07: 225/08: 125/10: 125/11: 425/12: 126/01: 726/02: 626/03: 826/04: 126/05: 626/06: 726/07: 526/08: 326/09: 426/10: 524/0925/0125/0425/0725/1126/0226/0526/08max 8

Unverified owner reports; best-sellers collect more.

Used 2023 Ford Escape buyer's checklist

  1. Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 13 recalls this year — ask for proof of repairs.
  2. Electrical System — 58 owner reports. Test every window, lock, light, screen and USB port; check the battery age.
  3. Engine — 33 owner reports. Cold-start the engine, listen for knocking, and watch for warning lights or hesitation on acceleration.
  4. Power Train — 25 owner reports. Test-drive through all gears, including reverse; note slipping, harsh or delayed shifts.
  5. Mileage to watch. Owners typically reported problems around 15,500 miles; ask what was repaired near that point.
  6. Hybrid system. Check for hybrid-system warning lights and ask whether the high-voltage battery has been replaced or is still under warranty.
  7. Before you pay: service records, a history report and an independent inspection.

Generated by DecodedCars from NHTSA recalls and owner complaints for the 2023 Ford Escape. Not a substitute for a professional inspection.

Other Escape years

Compare all years →
YearMPG (best)LengthOverallRecallsComplaints
2026 Escape40180.7 inNot rated34
2025 Escape40180.7 inNot rated1031
2024 Escape39180.7 in★★★★★1088
2022 Escape41180.7 in★★★★★21386
2021 Escape41180.7 in★★★★★21498
2020 Escape41180.7 in★★★★★251,908
2019 Escape26178.7 in★★★★★3597
2018 Escape26178.7 in★★★★★41,822
2017 Escape26178.7 in★★★★★42,702
2016 Escape26178.7 inNot rated41,170
2015 Escape26178.7 inNot rated91,131
2014 Escape26178.7 inNot rated162,023

Sources: EPA, NHTSA, Transport Canada, Wikimedia Commons. Not affiliated with NHTSA, the EPA or Ford. How we calculate this →