The L.A. Auto Show is underway, which means the world will be introduced to a bevy of new vehicles including the new, more fuel-efficient 2013 Ford Escape. Ford unveiled the new Escape today, calling it a Smarter Utility Vehicle, a play on the SUV acronym.

“We call our all-new Ford Escape the ‘Smarter Utility Vehicle’ because it offers the strengths that customers today really value — fuel economy, versatility and new technology that makes driving and living with the vehicle easier and more fun — all wrapped in a sleek, more modern design,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president of Global Product Development. “Ford understands that more people every year are looking at vehicles like Escape, and we want to give them even more reasons to buy.” Source: Ford

Although Ford already manufactures a hybrid Escape, the Detroit-based automaker has decided to offer other, more fuel-efficient Escape options to its customers. The new 2013 Ford Escape will come with an optional 2.0-liter or 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine.

Official EPA ratings are not yet available, but Ford estimates that the new Escapes will be up to five miles per gallon more efficient than today’s model thanks to the EcoBoost technology.

The new engine isn’t the only reason the 2013 Escape will achieve a higher fuel-efficiency rating. The redesigned Escape is 10 percent more aerodynamic than the current model, which also helps boost the miles per gallon rating.

Other features included in the redesigned Escape include active park assist to make parallel parking a breeze, an intelligent 4WD system and a sensor-based Blind Spot Information System. The 2013 Ford Escape will be available at dealerships nationwide next year.