This is the manufacturers released details and pictures for the next generation Escape from Ford. With nearly two million units sold since its launch in 2001, the Ford Escape has been a success for Ford in nearly all markets but not really a big seller in Malaysia.
First things first: this new Escape looks nothing like the square, conservative Escape that is on sale now. The new model is a striking, thoroughly modern design that may be the most attractive in its segment. The A rounded, bold front fascia leads into aggressive character lines and creases. The roofline curves down slightly past the B-pillars, contributing to the athletic stance. The tailgate is all diagonal lines and sharp edges, with triangular-shaped taillights and an angular license plate opening. Better yet, the new design produces about 10 percent less aerodynamic drag than the current Escape.
The cabin affords 34.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats, which rises to 68.1 cubic feet with the second row folded flat. The interior design mostly follows that seen on other new Fords like the Kuga and Fiesta, with the center stack housing the touch screen, climate controls, and other switchgear. Three different engines will be offered globally but Malaysia should get the 1.6-liter EcoBoost inline-four engine. Its combination of direct injection, turbocharging, and variable valve timing enable power ratings of 173 hp and 177 lb-ft. It should be the most fuel-efficient version of the 2013 Escape. The other engine will be the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine which were have in the current Mondeo and award winning S-Max.
New technologies for the Escape can be split into two categories: convenience and safety. The headlining feature is The Escape’s “kick to open” power liftgate. Owners simply wave their foot beneath the rear bumper, and the liftgate opens or closes. The idea is that owners lugging lots of shopping bags won’t have to set them down and fumble for keys before loading groceries into the Escape. It uses two capacitive sensors mounted in the rear bumper to detect the presence of both a shin and a foot, safeguarding against the hatch popping open unexpectedly.
A new Parking Technology package bundles blind-spot warning system, rain-sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors, a backup camera, and Ford’s Active Park Assist self-parking system. Other optional toys include the latest version of Sync voice recognition and the MyFord Touch touch-screen interfaces, a remote starter, and a hill-start assist feature to prevent the SUV from rolling backwards when launched on a steep incline.
Watch for more news on this new Escape as it happens.
