Although some of today’s newest crossovers have traded away capabilities for increased fuel efficiency, that’s not going to be the case with the 2013 Ford Escape. Thanks to the Blue Oval’s groundbreaking powertrain technologies, the new Escape will be able to pull a small boat, or two personal watercraft, but without having to constantly pull into the gas station to refuel.
According to Tennessee ATV dealers, when holstering one of Ford’s 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4 engines, the bottom line for the redesigned Escape is a tow rating of 3,500 lbs.—the same mark as the current V6-powered model and higher than any other small turbocharged crossover now on the market. The No. 2 entry, the VW Tiguan, can only haul 2,200 lbs., and it’s worth noting that the new Honda CR-V, which is available solely with a naturally aspirated I4 engine, has a 1,500-lb. tow limit. Ford promises this Escape model will out-conserve today’s V6 version as well and achieve EPA ratings north of 17 mpg city/25 mpg highway.
According to Ford Dealer NC, the Escape also has been reconfigured for improved interior versatility and more cargo space than past models, with a cabin that provides 68.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front row and 34.3 cubic feet behind the second row.
And Ford will offer the redesigned Escape with two other I4 power plants, too. These will include a 1.6-liter EcoBoost that will deliver EPA marks of up to 33 mpg highway, along with a standard 2.5-liter engine that has been updated for improved performance.
Drivers can look for the new 2013 Ford Escape to reach local dealerships later this spring.
You must log in to post a comment.