Ford And GM Ready To Capitalize On Booming US SUV Markets

Vehicles in the Escape’s class have starting prices just less than $24,000, and Japanese and European competitors now have cheaper currencies to offset the cost of new features.

Selling more than 300K units annually, the Escape trails only F-Series trucks among all Ford products. They like the size and height of an Escape and want the top trim level loaded with technology and creature comforts.

Plus, the mid-level SE trim will come standard with heated seats for the Canadian market only.

All compatible Ford cars will come with five years’ free Sync Connect service.

Ford also says the 168-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine will continue unchanged for 2017.

At today’s LA auto show, Ford revealed a significantly updated look for the Escape/Kuga, with styling changes headlined by a bold new grille, revised headlights and a new front bumper, all combining to bring the mid-sized SUV’s look in line with the larger Edge – which could also hit Australia next year. New-generation SYNC 3 features fast performance, conversational voice recognition, smartphone-like touch screen, and easy-to-understand graphical interface for a growing number of Ford vehicles in North America. In 2005, the Escape was the first Ford to be offered as a hybrid. The 2.5L engine is the only one available in the Escape S, while the 1.5L EcoBoost is standard in both the SE and Platinum trimlines, with the 2.0L EcoBoost serving as the optional upgrade in the pricier packages.

Debuting along with the new Escape, Ford has unveiled a new smartphone app called SYNC Connect that allows owners to remotely, well, connect with their auto. In a latest move, the company announced that its Ford Escape, slated for 2017 release, will have smart-controlling features through mobile app synchronization. The handbrake that was located on the left side of the console has been eliminated, replaced with an electronic parking brake. Safety tech such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, forward collision warning, and other features are options on the vehicle. All are mated to a six-speed transmission. To improve fuel economy, the 2017 Escape will feature grille shutters and EcoBoost models get standard Auto Start/Stop. Sales have rocketed every year since 2008 particularly in the compact segment, and by the end of 2015, one in every three cars sold in the United States is forecast to be of the crossover or utility vehicle variety. For the 245 horsepower and 275 lb-ft (374 Nm) 2-liter twin-scroll turbo, Ford employed the same fuel-saving technology.

Escape brand manager Kevin Schad expects continued strong sales of compact SUVs to both Millennials beginning to raise children and Baby Boomers downsizing from their larger SUVs. Now, WingCast is back, sort of, as Ford Sync Connect, with more modest ambitions initially.