Two very different vehicles with the same nameplate
The new 2020 Ford Escape (Kuga) marks the 19th anniversary of this compact crossover. It is almost as old as its Explorer sibling. In the past two decades, a lot has happened. The new Escape is not the same as the original Escape, or even the most recent model.
Update:
The Escape has more visual similarities with the European Focus , Fiesta and the European Escape for 2020. It shares the same grille, similar headlights and has many of the same hatchback-esque cues back. How does it compare to the Escape’s previous Escape? Let’s take a look at both crossovers side by side (note: European model pictured).
Front
The 2020 Ford Escape is far more advanced than its predecessor, as we have already said. The front fascia looks very Focus-esque and has a black-mesh trapezoidal fixture. It replaces the chrome six-sided grille on the Platinum model. Only the headlights look the same, but even so, the Escape’s dual LED accents and lower bulbs stand out from the outgoing model. The fog light housings of the Escape are unique. They have unique styling elements that continue from the bumper. The outgoing Escape is more traditional.
Side
It’s easy to see the vast differences between these cars if you look at them side-by-side. The Escape is now longer, wider, and lower than the previous Escape, though it is 200 pounds lighter. Its smoother, more attractive shape makes it even more attractive. It has elements of the larger Edge as well as a little bit of the Alfa Romeo Stelvio. However, nothing is the same as the previous generation. Not even the side mirrors.
Back
The Escape’s backside isn’t ordinary for its nameplate. It’s unlike any Ford product that we’ve ever seen. There are some similarities to the Edge, but this Escape is unique in its design and appearance for the Blue Oval. The new taillights look sleeker and the dual exhaust tips are now body-colored. There’s also a distinct diffuser that covers the rear window, accented with piano black trim. From the rear, the Escape looks fantastic.
Interior
The 2020 Ford Escape shares many of the same interior elements with its Explorer and Edge siblings, including the digital instrument cluster, iPad-style infotainment screens, and the questionable rotary shifting. This vehicle looks completely different from the previous Escape, which had an embedded infotainment screen and traditional shifter. The materials are a lot more attractive than they appear at first glance.