Ford Escape crossover spied on test again

- New Escape carries a design that resembles the Focus Active, with a similar grille and side mirrors. 

- It is expected to get a 1.5-litre three cylinder motor and a bigger 2-litre unit. 

- A hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrain should also be part of the mix considering the demise of the C-Max.

Here we have our first shots of the all new Ford Escape 2-row version since the 3-row version is expected but is yet to be seen.

Starting up front, the new Escape carries a design that resembles the Focus Active, with a similar grille, side mirrors, and a Ford badge placed on the tip of the nose. The similarities stop there though, as you get to the side of the Escape you will notice a beltline that rises more gradually from the a-pillar to the c-pillar, and a rear door that looks very similar to the outgoing one. In the back you can make out Focus-esque taillights along with a longer hatch that features a larger opening and a narrow rear bumper with dual exhaust openings.

The Escape should get power from Ford's 1.5-litre Ecoboost three-cylinder as the volume engine, while the 2-litre Ecoboost four-cylinder will likely continue as the upscale offering. In Europe, the 1.5-litre three-cylinder is good for 180bhp. A new nine-speed automatic is expected to be the sole transmission in the next Escape. A hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrain should also be part of the mix considering the demise of the C-Max.