Ford is updating its Escape compact SUV with a pair of new engines, standard stop-start, safety options, and enhanced connectivity for the 2017 model year.

The Escape, which typically ranks high among commercial fleet registrations, entered its third generation with the 2012 model year. Ford will show the 2017 Escape at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Ford is adding two four-cylinder EcoBoost engine options to the 2017 Escape, including a 1.5L and 2.0L twin-scroll turbo-charged engine. The new engines arrive with standard stop-start technology that shuts off the engine when the driver presses the brake pedal. The engines restart when the brake pedal lifts. Ford expects an improvement of fuel economy of up to 6% in stop-and-go driving.

Escape SE and Titanium trim levels come standard with the 1.5L EcoBoost, while the 2.0L EcoBoost is optional. A 6-speed automatic transmission is standard across the line, with new paddle-shift technology available for Escape SE and Titanium.

The twin-scroll turbocharged 2.0-liter EcoBoost delivers 245 horsepower and 275 lb.-ft. of
torque, along with greater efficiency and improved noise, vibration and harshness performance.

New pistons provide a higher, more efficient compression ratio, and a newly designed,
integrated exhaust manifold is optimized for the twin-scroll turbo system.

The aluminum-block, twin-cam 1.5L EcoBoost with integrated exhaust manifold is projected to deliver an expected 180 hp and 185 lb.-ft. of torque, which is comparable to the 1.6L engine.

Ford also offers a 2.5L i-VCT four-cylinder engine that carries over as standard equipment for the Escape S.

New optional driver-assist technologies include enhanced active park assist, lane-keeping system, adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning with brake support.

Commercial fleets added 31,434 Escape SUVs in 2013, making it the fourth most added fleet vehicle.