The fourth-generation Ford Escape debuted with styling worthy of the witness protection program, but the automaker righted the wrongs with a facelift in 2022. However, Europeans weren’t as lucky as the Kuga continued chugging along.
That’s about to change as spy photographers have snapped the facelifted crossover undergoing testing in both mild and ST-Line guise. Unsurprisingly, they’re virtually identical to their North American counterparts.
That being said, there are subtle differences including lightly revised headlights and Ford’s new logo. The Kuga also eschews round exhaust tips for trapezoidal ones. Furthermore, the plug-in hybrid variant has a different grille and a more rugged appearance than what’s found stateside.
More: 2023 Ford Escape Arrives With Improved Styling, Sporty New ST-Line Trim
Spy photographers didn’t get close enough for interior pictures, but the cabin should largely carryover. However, the Kuga might follow in the footsteps of the Escape an offer a larger 13.2-inch SYNC 4 infotainment system.
Under the hood, we can expect a mix of petrol, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid engines. Choices could include a familiar 1.5-liter EcoBoost with 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS) and a hybridized 2.5-liter Duratec with 187 hp (150 kW / 190 PS). The latter is also available in a plug-in hybrid powertrain that produces 222 hp (165 kW / 225 PS).
This is expected to be the last update for the Kuga as both it and the Escape are rumored to be replaced by an electric crossover. Of course, only time will tell.
