Facelifted Ford Kuga / Escape Caught On Camera And Rendered

The current-generation Ford Escape—known in Europe as the Kuga—is one solid all-rounder on the market but lacks the wow factor when it comes to its design. Ford probably knows that and will try to put a little more excitement into the crossover’s design when the facelifted model arrives. It’s currently under development and we have a new spy video showing two test prototypes on public roads in Germany. Plus, the new rendering provides an accurate preview.

That CarSpyMedia active channel Youtube takes us to Germany where Ford is testing the updated Kuga. Both test cars have plenty of camouflage covering their front ends, though the updated design isn’t really a secret. The new thinner headlamps and reshaped radiator grille give the front fascia a more robust look. The hood also appears to be tweaked to match the new, slimmer headlights. At the rear, there are slight modifications as the taillights retain their design but get new internal graphics.

As Kolesa.ruA pair of renderings shows, the final design of the updated Kuga/Escape duo could be significantly more interesting than the previous model. The wider front grille combined with the new headlights will result in a more modern overall look and there may be a choice of new wheel designs and exterior colors to complete the visual upgrade. We also believe the cabin could receive a new infotainment system with a larger tablet-style screen on the center console. Technological upgrades across the range are likely to be on the cards too.

As far as engine options are concerned, we don’t expect major changes to Escape and Kuga. The latter will probably come first and will carry a range of electric powertrains from the versions still being sold in Europe. One of the prototypes in the video above sounds a lot like a diesel engine, which probably means a compression ignition option will also remain available.

The Escape is Ford’s second best-selling crossover in the United States, only surpassed by the Explorer. However, with 145,415 deliveries last year, those vehicles are down 18.5 percent compared to 2020.