The 2023 Ford Escape is a solid compact crossover SUV at a relatively affordable price. But many car buyers want more than the standard model. So Ford offers shoppers several Escape trims, options, and packages to upgrade their ride. Here’s a look at how much a fully loaded 2023 Ford Escape costs and what comes with it.

Overview of the 2023 model

The 2023 Ford Escape comes in seven trims. Ford starts the base model at about $27,500. It has a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine making 181 hp. One level up is the Active trim, starting at about $29,000 and packing the same 1.5-liter three-cylinder. Then there’s the ST-Line, which starts at about $30,000. It also has a 1.5-liter engine but offers an optional 2.5-liter inline-four hybrid engine.

Next up is the ST-Line Select, starting at around $34,000. Opt for a 250-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder or the 2.5-liter inline-four hybrid. Then there’s the Platinum, which starts at about $37,500. It also comes with the 2.0-liter turbo-four but offers the optional 2.5-liter inline-four hybrid. 

The second-most expensive Escape trim is the ST-Line Elite. Starting at $38,460, it has the same powertrain options as the ST-Line Select and Platinum. 

How much does a fully loaded 2023 Ford Escape cost?

The range-topping 2023 Ford Escape is the PHEV. Starting at $38,500, it packs a 2.5-liter plug-in hybrid powertrain. It generates 209 hp, allowing the SUV to get 100 MPGe. Ford gave the Escape PHEV an 11.2-kWh battery, allowing it to go an impressive 37 miles in electric-only mode. 

The Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of advanced driver-assistance features is standard on the PHEV. It also includes the Cold Weather Package. The seats have partial vinyl and cloth upholstery, and heated front seats are standard. As for tech, the Escape PHEV comes with a decently sized 13.2-inch touchscreen. And buyers can add numerous options.

For instance, Star White Metallic tri-coat exterior paint costs almost $1,000. And for $4,500, the Plug-in Hybrid Premium package adds a perimeter alarm, a head-up display, a 360-degree camera, and other features. A panoramic glass roof costs an additional $1,600. Ford also offers abundant accessories, such as cargo mats, which cost around $100 each.

In total, a fully loaded 2023 Ford Escape costs just under $50,000. 

Which 2023 Ford Escape trim should you buy?

Nearly $50,000 is a hefty price for a compact crossover. But you don’t have to spend that much to get an excellent 2023 Ford Escape. Car and Driver testers recommend the ST-Line. Starting at around $30,000, this trim costs only about $2,500 more than the base model.

The main reason why Car and Driver reviewers like the ST-Line is that it’s the cheapest trim with access to the more powerful 2.0-liter engine. Equipping the Escape with that engine pushes the price closer to $34,000. C/D also suggests adding the Premium Technology package, adding $3,700 to the total.