The 2023 Ford Escape continues to be a popular crossover SUV for many reasons – sleek styling, great fuel economy, advanced technology features, and most importantly, strong towing and cargo capabilities. As an automotive expert running Antich Automotive, I want to provide an in-depth look at why the new 2023 Escape is an excellent choice for anyone needing to haul trailers, boats, camping gear, or just everyday cargo.
Towing Capacity
One of the most impressive traits of the 2023 Ford Escape is its robust towing capacity. When properly equipped with the Class II Trailer Tow Package, the Escape can tow up to 3,500 pounds. This allows you to haul small trailers, boats, ATVs, snowmobiles, and much more with confidence.
The optional tow package includes essential upgrades like:
- Heavy-duty radiator and engine oil cooler
- Class II trailer hitch receiver
- Trailer sway control
- Tow/haul mode for optimized transmission shift points
Towing this amount of weight requires a powerful engine. The Escape offers three engine choices:
- 1.5L EcoBoost turbocharged 3-cylinder (Standard)
- 2.0L EcoBoost turbocharged 4-cylinder (Optional)
- 2.5L hybrid/plug-in hybrid
The base 1.5L can easily manage lighter trailers around 2,000 pounds. But I recommend upgrading to the 2.0L EcoBoost to maximize towing muscle while maintaining great fuel efficiency.
With intelligent four-wheel drive and an advanced suspension, the Escape instills driver confidence when towing in slippery conditions. Safety tech like a blindspot information system, rear cross traffic alert, and trailer coverage in the rearview camera further assist with maneuvering trailers.
Cargo Capacity
In addition to robust towing capabilities, the 2023 Escape offers excellent cargo space for a compact SUV. With the rear seats folded down, maximum cargo room measures 65.4 cubic feet.
That’s among the top of its class and allows you to haul plenty of camping gear, sports equipment, luggage, and everyday items. The smart interior design includes:
- 60/40 split folding rear seats
- Flat load floor for easy loading
- Underfloor storage compartments
- Available hands-free foot-activated liftgate
Smaller items can be stowed in the many storage compartments integrated around the cabin. There are bins under the rear cargo floor, door pockets, front seatback pockets, and trays under the center console.
With 5 passengers, there is still 34 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. That’s enough room for several suitcases or a major grocery run. The Escape makes it simple to pack both people and cargo for everyday adventures or long road trips.
Towing Assistance Technologies
Towing heavy loads requires vigilance and assistance from advanced technologies. The 2023 Escape offers driver aids that optimize the towing experience:
Trailer Sway Control – This system detects trailer sway caused by improper loading, winds, or improper speed. It automatically applies brakes and reduces engine torque to stabilize the vehicle and trailer. This prevents a dangerous sway back-and-forth motion.
Rear View Camera with Trailer Hitch Assist – Hooking up a trailer is easier with guidance lines overlaid on the rearview camera image. This helps you precisely line up the hitch ball and receiver.
Blindspot Information System – Radar sensors detect vehicles in your blindspots to alert you before making unsafe lane changes with a trailer attached.
Smart Trailer Tow Connector – This new feature for 2023 displays trailer connection status, lighting diagnostics, and trailer tire pressure/temperature in the instrument cluster.
Why Choose the 2023 Ford Escape?
With its muscular towing capabilities, abundant cargo room, and advanced tech features, the new 2023 Ford Escape represents an exceptional compact SUV. If you demand space to haul gear and trailers along with a comfortable, high-tech interior, the Escape deserves a test drive.
As a compact crossover with car-like driving dynamics, it offers advantages over a bulkier truck-based SUV:
- Excellent fuel economy – up to 33 mpg highway
- Smoother ride quality from the independent suspension
- Easier parking and maneuverability in tight spaces
- Lower cost of operation
Yet it still provides SUV versatility with available AWD, robust cargo space, and crossover styling. After evaluating all aspects as an automotive expert, I highly recommend the 2023 Escape for shoppers needing real towing and hauling skills in a stylish, fuel-efficient package. It continues to be one of Ford’s most versatile and popular models for good reason.
Top Towing Tips
Towing heavy loads requires careful preparation and driving habits. Here are my top tips for safe towing with the 2023 Ford Escape:
- Verify your vehicle’s tow rating – don’t exceed 3,500 lbs capacity
- Use a weight distributing hitch for heavier trailers
- Load trailer correctly with 60% of weight in front
- Check trailer tire pressure and wheel bearings
- Allow extra distance for braking
- Reduce speed and avoid sudden maneuvers
- Get used to judging vehicle length with trailer attached
- Adjust side mirrors to see trailer lanes
- Engage tow/haul mode for optimized transmission response
- Monitor engine temperature on hot days
Please reach out with any questions about configuring and towing with a new Ford Escape. I’m happy to provide my expertise to ensure you have a safe, successful towing experience.
