2023 Ford Escape vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered Canadians a choice of six models, with prices ranging from $47,799 to $66,759, excluding a $2,095 destination charge. The lineup expanded with the rugged Timberline trim, and the new ST-Line added a sporty flair to the XLT version. The Explorer's design, based on a rear-drive platform, featured a long hood, short front overhang, and a rakish roofline, giving it a taut, athletic appearance. Blacked-out roof pillars created a "floating roof" effect, reminiscent of the previous generation. Inside, higher-trim Explorers showcased a mix of quality and questionable materials, mostly justifying their price but occasionally revealing the base trim's influence.

In contrast, the 2023 Ford Escape embraced a more European design language, moving away from the rugged, boxy aesthetic of its predecessors. A 2023 refresh introduced a traditional front end with a Ford blue oval logo and a stylish LED light bar. The Escape, one of Ford's smallest vehicles, offered a range of trims from Active to ST-Line Elite. The top-trim ST-Line Elite featured 19-inch wheels and body-colour mirror caps, giving it an upscale look akin to a Mazda CX-5. Inside, the Escape boasted diamond-stitched leather upholstery, though it felt hard and plasticky. The seats were comfortable, and the 10-way power adjustable driver's seat was easy to adjust. However, the interior was dominated by plastic, some of which felt scratchy and poorly reinforced.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The XLT, ST-Line, and Timberline trims came with a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, producing 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada. It had a towing capacity of 2,400 kilograms and consumed between 10.3 and 11.8 litres per 100 kilometres. The Explorer Limited offered a hybrid drivetrain with a 3.3-litre V6 engine, generating 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 2,268 kg, and achieving 9.6 L/100 km. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, standard on the ST and Platinum trims, delivered 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,540 kg and fuel consumption of 11.8 L/100 km. The Explorer's ride was robust, handling off-road terrain with ease, and it felt athletic in daily driving.

The 2023 Ford Escape offered two engine options. The 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine produced 180 horsepower and 199 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and available with FWD or AWD. The ST-Line Select, Platinum, and ST-Line Elite trims featured a 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder engine, delivering 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, exclusively with AWD. While the Escape's suspension was soft and compliant, it wasn't a performance crossover. The brakes provided predictable stopping power, and the steering was well-weighted, avoiding the twitchiness common in some competitors.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided ample comfort for families of four, with the option to carry five with a second-row bench seat. However, the third-row seat was best suited for children due to limited space. Fully equipped models featured amenities like triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain's chairs. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, while the third-row seat was difficult for adults to access. Cargo space was generous, with 528 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,264 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,132 litres with both rear rows down.

The 2023 Ford Escape offered comfortable seating and excellent ergonomics, with well-positioned armrests and convenient cupholders. However, it fell short in cargo space compared to segment leaders, offering up to 1,061 litres behind the second row and 1,851 litres with the second row folded. Passenger space was slightly less than competitors, but the back seat provided good headroom and soft, scalloped front-seat backs for tall passengers.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The larger screen appeared as an afterthought, while the smaller screen integrated well with the interior. The Explorer offered FordPass Connect services, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, the Sync 3 system lagged behind the newer Sync 4, particularly in voice recognition and feature operation.

The 2023 Ford Escape impressed with its Sync 4 technology, featuring an 8-inch or 13.2-inch touchscreen. The larger screen enhanced the cabin's look, and Sync 4 was well-organized with easy navigation between applications. A wi-fi hotspot was available, and the system included a static "Home" button for easy access. While Sync 4 was occasionally slow to respond, its feature set and layout were impressive. A Bang & Olufsen sound system was optional on higher trims.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, though NHTSA ratings were incomplete. It came with Ford Co-Pilot360, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and more. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The system operated smoothly, though it occasionally issued unnecessary warnings.

The 2023 Ford Escape received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA but did not earn a Top Safety Pick from IIHS due to a Marginal side-impact test score. It included Co-Pilot360 with features like forward-collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. Co-Pilot360 2.0 added adaptive cruise control and lane-centring technology, enhancing the semi-autonomous driving experience.