Spy shots and video of the 2023 Ford Escape: a major facelift is underway

The Ford Escape is due for a major facelift, as revealed by a recently spotted camouflaged prototype.

The current Escape, known as the Cougar in some markets, was introduced for the 2020 model year with a fairly lukewarm design, made even more forgettable by the launch of the related Bronco Sport a year later.

Ford appears to address this shortcoming with a mid-cycle update to this compact crossover. The current Escape's rounded front end will be replaced by a tougher, blockier look in the updated model. The headlights will be new, the grille will be higher, and the Ford logo will be centered. The current logo is on the front edge of the hood.

The overall finish should be more similar to the Mustang Mach E.

The rear styling will be more modern.

The rear styling changes will not be as dramatic. The fascia will be changed and the exhaust tips will likely be redesigned. The exhaust design seen on some of the prototypes is merely a makeshift unit.

According to the photographer, the dashboard is also largely hidden, and the interior appears to be heavily modified as well. Don't be surprised if a larger infotainment screen is added, similar to the one seen on the updated version of the Focus that just went on sale overseas.

It is not clear what Ford has planned for the powertrain. The current Escape has a relatively diverse lineup, starting with a turbocharged 1.5-liter inline 3-cylinder that produces 181 hp; a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine that produces 250 hp; a hybrid and plug-in hybrid version of the 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engines are available. They produce 200 hp and 221 hp, respectively.

The updated Escape will be available later this year as a 2023 model.