2026 Ford Escape: Your Complete Guide to Ford’s Versatile Compact SUV

Dec 18, 2025

The 2026 Ford Escape compact SUV seats five passengers and offers up to 250 horsepower with multiple powertrain options.

The 2026 Ford Escape offers four powertrains including a 250-horsepower turbo, efficient hybrid, and plug-in hybrid.
The Ford Escape final model year features advanced Ford Co-Pilot360 safety technology, SYNC 4 infotainment, and seating for five.
Pricing for the 2026 Ford Escape starts around $30,000, with multiple configurations available.

The 2026 Ford Escape is a compact SUV that offers practicality without the premium price tag found in many competitors. Measuring 180.5 inches in length, 74.1 inches in width, and 66.1 inches in height, the 2026 Ford Escape strikes an ideal balance between maneuverability and interior space. Its 106.7-inch wheelbase provides a stable platform while keeping the overall footprint manageable for urban driving and parking situations. It comfortably seats five passengers and offers up to 65.4 cubic feet of cargo volume when the 60/40 split-folding rear seats are folded down. This model year marks the final chapter for this generation of the Escape. However, it remains a compelling choice for drivers seeking versatility, advanced technology, and genuine value in the compact crossover segment.

New For The 2026 Ford Escape

For 2026, the Ford Escape receives no substantial updates and closely mirrors the 2025 model. However, there is one significant change that affects availability. The hybrid powertrain configuration has been adjusted, with the front-wheel-drive hybrid option being eliminated. This leaves only the all-wheel-drive hybrid variant available for buyers who want electrified efficiency.

Performance

The 2026 Ford Escape offers a diverse powertrain lineup designed to meet different driving needs and preferences. The base engine is a turbocharged 1.5-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder that delivers 180 horsepower at 6,000 rpm. For those seeking more spirited performance, the most powerful available gas engine features direct injection and turbocharging. It delivers 250 horsepower and 280 lb.-ft. of torque. Both gasoline engines are paired with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. For eco-conscious drivers, the 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain combines a four-cylinder engine with electric motors to produce 192 horsepower. This engine uses an electronic variable transmission to optimize efficiency. When properly equipped with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine and the Class II Trailer Tow Package, the 2026 Ford Escape can tow up to 3,500 pounds.

MPG

Fuel efficiency remains one of the 2026 Ford Escape strongest attributes, particularly in its electrified configurations. The 1.5L EcoBoost engine achieves 27 city, 34 highway, and 30 combined MPG with front-wheel drive. Adding all-wheel drive slightly reduces those figures to 26 city and 32 highway MPG. The 2.0L EcoBoost engine with all-wheel drive achieves 23 city, 31 highway, and 26 combined MPG. For maximum efficiency, the 2.5L hybrid engine delivers impressive ratings of 42 city, 36 highway, and 39 combined MPG. The plug-in hybrid takes efficiency even further, achieving 101 combined MPGe when operating in electric mode, with an EPA-estimated all-electric range of 37 miles. This means many daily commutes can be completed without using a drop of gasoline, while longer trips benefit from the seamless transition to hybrid operation.

Top Speed

When fitted with the more powerful turbocharged four-cylinder, the 2026 Ford Escape reaches 60 mph in just 5.8 seconds, making it one of the quickest options in its class. The base three-cylinder engine completes the same sprint in 7.7 seconds, which remains competitive for everyday driving.

Interior

The 2026 Ford Escape interior offers refined seat upholstery options including unique cloth, vinyl and cloth, or ActiveX seat upholstery with mini perforations. The ST-Line and ST-Line Elite trims feature partial vinyl and cloth seats with distinctive red stitching. The Platinum trim elevates luxury with ActiveX-trimmed heated front sport contour bucket seats. Interior dimensions provide generous space for all occupants. Second-row seats slide forward and back, allowing passengers to prioritize either legroom or cargo capacity based on their needs. Behind the second row, cargo capacity measures 37.5 cubic feet, expanding to 65.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat.

Available comfort features include heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, a wireless charging pad, and a panoramic Vista Roof with power shade. The hands-free power liftgate adds convenience when loading groceries or luggage. Memory settings for the driver’s seat and mirrors make it easy to share the vehicle among multiple drivers. Standard Ice Blue ambient instrument panel cluster lighting provides a subtle, modern glow.

Technology

The 2026 Ford Escape embraces modern connectivity and convenience features throughout its technology package. The SYNC 4 infotainment system comes standard with either an 8-inch or available 13.2-inch LCD capacitive touchscreen. It features enhanced voice recognition, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and cloud connectivity. With the FordPass app, drivers can take advantage of remote vehicle features including start and stop, lock and unlock, schedule service, and more. Audio options range from a standard six-speaker system to an available 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium sound system that delivers exceptional clarity and depth for music, podcasts, and audiobooks. An available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster replaces traditional analog gauges with a customizable display that can show navigation directions, performance data, and vehicle settings. Additional tech features include dual USB charging ports, available connected navigation with one year included, and real-time traffic updates.

Safety Features

Safety technology is comprehensive across the 2026 Ford Escape lineup. Standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features include forward collision mitigation, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking includes pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, and dynamic brake support. The Lane-Keeping System includes Lane-Keeping Assist, Lane-Keeping Alert, and Driver Alert. BLIS, Ford’s Blind Spot Information System, monitors areas alongside and behind the vehicle that might be difficult to see in mirrors. Higher trims offer additional advanced safety features through available packages including:

Adaptive Cruise Control
Lane Centering
Evasive Steering Assist
360-Degree Camera
Front & Rear Parking Sensors
Post-Collision Braking

Price of the 2026 Ford Escape

The 2026 Ford Escape base model starts at $30,350 MSRP, positioning it competitively within the compact SUV segment. This starting price includes a solid roster of standard equipment. This makes the 2026 Ford Escape an attractive value proposition for budget-conscious buyers who still want modern features and capability.

2026 Escape Price by Trim

These prices do not include destination charges, taxes, or dealer fees, which will vary by location. Optional packages and individual options can add to the final price, but the range of trim levels ensures there is a 2026 Ford Escape configuration for nearly any budget within the compact SUV space.

Active: $30,350

ST-Line: $31,195

ST-Line Select: $35,015

ST-Line Elite: $38,935

Platinum: $37,940

Plug-in Hybrid: $35,400

Ford Warranty

The New Vehicle Limited Warranty from Ford lasts for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. This comprehensive bumper-to-bumper coverage protects the 2026 Ford Escape against defects in materials or workmanship. The Powertrain Warranty covers components such as the engine, transmission, and drivetrain, beginning at the Warranty Start Date and lasting for 5 years or 60,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Roadside assistance is provided for 5 years or 60,000 miles, including services such as towing, flat tire changes, fuel delivery, and lockout assistance.

Test Drive a 2026 Ford Escape at Metro Ford of OKC

Metro Ford of OKC invites you to explore the complete lineup of 2026 Ford Escape models and experience firsthand what makes this compact SUV such a compelling choice. Our knowledgeable sales team is ready to help you find the perfect 2026 Ford Escape trim and configuration to match your lifestyle and budget. Ready to take your Ford Escape experience to the next level? Call Metro Ford of OKC and speak with one of our experts. Our Ford cars for sale includes the Ford Maverick, Ford Escape, Ford Expedition, Ford Bronco, Ford Transit, Ford Explorer, Ford F-150, Ford Mustang, Ford Ranger, and the Ford F-250. Reach out to our Ford dealership to schedule a test drive today. Send us an email and speak to a representative today.

Contact Metro Ford of OKC

405-896-8531

Address: 2800 West I-44 Service Road, Oklahoma City, OK 73112

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