Ford's new Escape looks the same, incorporates big changes (pictures)
It may just show a new grille, but the new Escape also benefits from a new, 1.5-liter engine and a built-in data modem for its telematics system.
For its 2017 model year, Ford keeps much of the exterior look and original chassis of the Escape, but updates the engine offerings and electronics.
The Escape is Ford's second best selling vehicle, behind the F-150 pickup truck.
The 2017 Escape comes in S, SE and Titanium trims.
Ford gave the Escape's grille a redesign, and incorporated active shutters for better aerodynamics.
New driver assistance features include adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance, but these are only available at the top trim.
In S trim, the Escape gets a 2.5-liter four cylinder engine. Above that, it gets a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, and an option for a 2-liter turbocharged engine.
Front-wheel-drive comes standard, with all-wheel-drive available in the SE and Titanium trim models.
The Escape drives comfortably, and uses an idle-stop feature to save gas in traffic.
Sync 3 is Ford's new infotainment system, incorporating navigation, digital audio and phone integration, available in the two upper trims for the Escape.
Ford Connect, a new data service, is available for the Escape, enabling telematics features such as remote start and location tracking.
Sync 3 also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Escape starts at around $24,000, but can be optioned up in high trim to over $35,000.