2017 Ford Escape Debuts FordPass Mobile Services, Apple CarPlay

The 2017 Ford Escape heads to dealers next month with a number of new features, including Apple CarPlay compatibility and remote vehicle access through FordPass.

Drivers can now lock, unlock, check fuel levels, schedule remote starts, and locate their Escape remotely from their smartphones. The service, called Sync Connect, is included in the Technology Package on the Escape SE and is standard on the top-trim Titanium model. Sync Connect debuts for the first time on the 2017 Escape, and will arrive next on the updated Fusion later this year. The feature is enabled through the FordPass mobile platform.

Ford debuted its FordPass mobility strategy back in January, and it’s more far-reaching than remote vehicle access. It is intended to help people get around town through a variety of transportation forms, not just cars. With this platform, Ford offers solutions for booking smart parking reservations, ride sharing, bike rentals, and more.

The Escape will also be the first Ford to feature Sync 3 with support for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Many automakers, including General Motors, Honda, and Volkswagen, have already gone down that path.

The 2017 Ford Escape has been significantly refreshed for the new model year. New features on the Escape include updated engines, a redesigned steering wheel, standard auto start-stop on EcoBoost engines, electronic parking brake, and more. The exterior also features a fresh new design.

Source: Ford

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