When the 2023 Ford Escape debuted yesterday, it did so bearing a brand new trim level lineup that’s completely different from the outgoing model – Base, Active, PHEV, ST-Line, and Platinum, which replace the outgoing S, SE, SEL, and Titanium trims. The ST-Line is notable because it’s brand new to the crossover, though Ford has used that particular name on a variety of vehicles that feature sporty styling without the extra performance goodies present on ST models with solid customer response, and it expects the same for the new 2023 Ford Escape ST-LIne lineup, too.
In fact, Escape Brand Manager Adrienne Zaski explained to Ford Authority Executive Editor Alex Luft at the 2023 Ford Escape reveal event that the ST-Line series – which consists of the ST-Line, ST-Line Select, and ST-Line Elite – is expected to represent 50 percent of all Escape sales. That’s a rather large number, but it makes sense given the trim level’s positioning within the lineup, sporty style, and pricing.
On the outside, the Escape ST-Line features a black mesh front grille, a unique rear skid plate, a single-wing rear spoiler, and standard 18-inch wheels, as well as monochromatic bodywork with matching painted surfaces. The ST-Line Elite is also equipped with a “coast-to-coast” LED light bar located between the headlights and 19-inch machine-faced Ebony-painted wheels.
Inside the cabin, the sporty crossover features an ebony hue accented by red stitching on the seats, door panels, arm rests, steering wheel, and floor mats, along with a flat-bottom steering wheel. The new 13.2-inch infotainment screen is optional on the ST-Line and ST-Line Select, as well as standard equipment on the ST-Line Elite.
In terms of powertrains, the ST-Line is equipped with the turbocharged Ford 1.5L I-3 EcoBoost engine that is targeted to produce 180 horsepower and standard front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive, or a hybrid option with front-wheel drive. Meanwhile, the ST-Line Select and Elite are equipped with either the turbocharged Ford 2.0L I-4 EcoBoost powerplant with standard all-wheel drive or the hybrid. In terms of pricing, the ST-Line starts out at $29,840, the ST-Line Select at $34,040, and the ST-Line Elite at $38,460, giving customers a wide range of equipment levels and price points to choose from.
We’ll have more on the 2023 Escape soon, so be sure and subscribe to Ford Authority for more Ford Escape news and comprehensive Ford news coverage.
Comments
So they are making an ST-Line Escape which begs the question, is there going to be an ST Escape?
ST-Line is so lame. Why take away from the ST appeal? Even if they make an Escape ST at some point, it waters it down just like they did with the Edge ST. “ST” stands ( or stood ) for Sports Technologies and was in house Ford Performance. Now it’s an appearance package? What’s next? The Ford Raptor-Line? The Mustang Cobra-Line? I mean this company did give us the Bronco Sport (which is nice, but not a Bronco) and F-150 Rattler recently. ( Nobody saw a red flag there???)
Thought in house performance was signified by SVT.
Audi has been very successful with the s line cars, I’m sure that Ford is copying that. While I agree with you ,if it brings more success to the escape I’m all for it as I’ve read that they are thinking of discontinuing it after this design refresh. It would be a shame as some of us have only bought Ford’s and we need a car in that segment.
There is precedent. XR7 on a Cougar meant something for a few years, then became just a trim package.
I don’t see much of a difference except for the black wheels which many cars have. How about a nice exhaust, performance brakes, extended fender flares with meaty tires, Black glossy wheels, operational hood and fender vents to go with the black glossy wheels. Don’t forget a 2.3 liter turbo near the 300hp range. Maybe then it will be worth $39,000.00.
PS: All wheel drive for those up North.
The Escape ST Line is as disingenuous as it gets. No guts. Just fugly black wheels. And the same cheap interior materials.
Escape used to be a segment leader, but hasn’t been competitive for half a decade. Changing series nomenclature is akin to rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic. Clearly Ford thinks marketing gimmickry can dupe customers. Wrong. The problem is that Ford keeps shooting holes in its life boats – decontenting, vinyl seats, poor quality, and discontinuing high quality products like Edge and Fusion. Shameful. Why? Billions wasted on AV and a train station.
All of the automakers offer “styling and design” versions of their performance models. AMG, BMW M, Hyundai, Kia, Chrysler, GM, etc. They are a great alternative for buyers that want the look of the performance edition, but not necessarily the associated costs. There is nothing devious or malicious about it. Buyers get factory installed and warrantied parts, pay less than if they bought a standard trim and added the parts themselves, and are happy. Personally, the Escape ST-Line are the only trims I would consider. Being in the market for a vehicle in this segment it is on my list. The ST-Line Select seems like a sweet spot to get the 2.0L engine and some extra features.
But there is no ST Escape, from which the ST Line gains reference. And ActiveX … errr… vinyl is not leather. Phony is phony. Just call it what it is or don’t do it (integrity is never compromised).
I have active x in my explorer, I prefer it to leather. It wears better