The updated 2018 Ford Escape has been detailed ahead of its filtering into the local line-up, offering AEB as standard as well as Apple and Android connectivity.
THE 2018 FORD ESCAPE will be equipped with autonomous emergency braking (AEB) as standard – it was previously a cost option on top-spec variants.
“Australians are strong on safety and look for high levels of equipment in their vehicles,” said Ford Australia boss, Graeme Whickman. “Escape joins the new 2018 Mustang as having AEB standard, and we’ve also announced AEB will be available on the 2018 Everest, Endura SUVs, as well as the Ranger, Transit Custom and the all-new Focus.”
Also new for 2018 is a new-look 17-inch alloy wheel as standard on Escape, replacing the existing Ambiente’s steel wheels. This means that the entire Escape line-up comes with alloy wheels as standard. SYNC 3 is also standard across the Escape line-up and includes in-built voice activation, native sat-nav as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility.
Ford has also announced the arrival of a more sporty Escape, the Escape ST-Line which will offer a tweaked suspension set-up for a more ‘sporting’ ride and handling experience, according to Ford.
In response to Ford’s announcement, ANCAP boss, James Goodwin said: “We’re seeing more and more brands incorporate AEB (Autonomous Emergency Braking) and other active driver assistance features as part of their model refreshes, and this is an important shift. The market has matured and it is encouraging to see brands such as Ford recognise the need to upgrade safety specification as part of their mid- cycle updates.”
Updated 2018 Ford Escape manufacturer list pricing (excluding on-road costs):
| MLP |
Escape Ambiente 1.5L EcoBoost FWD 6MT | $28,990 |
Escape Ambiente 1.5L EcoBoost FWD 6AT | $30,490 |
Escape Ambiente 1.5L EcoBoost AWD 6AT | $33,490 |
Escape Trend 1.5L EcoBoost FWD 6AT | $33,490 |
Escape Trend 1.5L EcoBoost AWD 6AT | $36,490 |
Escape Trend 2.0L TDCi AWD 6AT | $38,990 |
Escape ST-Line 2.0L EcoBoost AWD 6AT (new) | $39,990 |
Escape Titanium 2.0L EcoBoost AWD 6AT | $45,480 |
Escape Titanium 2.0L TDCi AWD 6AT | $48,340 |
