Prepare to be captivated by the 2026 Ford Escape, an exceptional compact SUV that seamlessly blends rugged capability with modern sophistication. With its striking exterior design, cutting-edge technology, and impressive performance, the Escape is poised to redefine the driving experience.
From its sleek silhouette to its spacious and refined interior, every aspect of the Escape has been meticulously crafted to deliver both practicality and exhilaration. As you explore its diverse trim levels and discover its advanced features, you’ll realize why the 2026 Ford Escape is destined to become a benchmark in its class.
Vehicle Overview
The 2026 Ford Escape is a compact SUV that combines rugged capability with urban practicality. It features a sleek and modern exterior design, with a spacious and versatile interior that offers plenty of room for passengers and cargo.
The Escape is available in four trim levels: S, SE, SEL, and Titanium. The S trim is the base model and comes with standard features such as LED headlights, a rearview camera, and a 4.2-inch infotainment system. The SE trim adds features such as fog lights, heated front seats, and a 6.5-inch infotainment system. The SEL trim adds features such as leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a 10-speaker audio system. The Titanium trim is the top-of-the-line model and comes with features such as adaptive cruise control, a lane departure warning system, and a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system.
Dimensions
The 2026 Ford Escape has a length of 180.5 inches, a width of 73.9 inches, and a height of 66.1 inches. It has a wheelbase of 106.3 inches and a ground clearance of 8.3 inches.
Seating Capacity
The 2026 Ford Escape has a seating capacity of five passengers. The front seats are spacious and comfortable, and the rear seats offer plenty of legroom and headroom. The Escape also has a large cargo area, with 33.5 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 65.4 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded down.
Key Features
- Sleek and modern exterior design
- Spacious and versatile interior
- Available in four trim levels: S, SE, SEL, and Titanium
- Standard features include LED headlights, a rearview camera, and a 4.2-inch infotainment system
- Available features include fog lights, heated front seats, a 6.5-inch infotainment system, leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a 10-speaker audio system, adaptive cruise control, a lane departure warning system, and a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system
- Seating capacity of five passengers
- Spacious cargo area with 33.5 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 65.4 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded down
Performance and Efficiency
The 2026 Ford Escape offers a range of powertrain options to suit various driving needs. These include a 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine, a 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, and a hybrid powertrain.
The 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine produces 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. Fuel economy ratings for this engine are 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway.
The 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine produces 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. It is available with an 8-speed automatic transmission and either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Fuel economy ratings for this engine are 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway.
The hybrid powertrain combines a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack. It produces a combined 200 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid powertrain comes standard with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT) and front-wheel drive. Fuel economy ratings for the hybrid are 44 mpg city and 41 mpg highway.
The Escape’s handling is responsive and agile, with a well-tuned suspension that provides a comfortable ride. Acceleration is brisk, especially with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine. Braking is confident and progressive, with a firm pedal feel.
Towing and Payload Capacity
The 2026 Ford Escape has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. The maximum payload capacity is 1,500 pounds.
Off-Road Capability
The Escape is available with an optional all-wheel drive system that provides improved traction in slippery conditions. The all-wheel drive system also includes a terrain management system that allows the driver to select between different driving modes for different off-road conditions.
Technology and Safety Features
The 2026 Ford Escape offers an array of cutting-edge technology and safety features to enhance your driving experience and protect you on the road.
In terms of technology, the Escape boasts a user-friendly infotainment system with an intuitive interface. The system includes a large touchscreen display, voice recognition, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additionally, the Escape offers a premium sound system, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and wireless charging for compatible devices.
Driver-Assist Technologies
The Escape is equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assist technologies designed to make driving safer and more convenient. These technologies include adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Escape also offers a 360-degree camera system that provides a bird’s-eye view of your surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces a breeze.
Safety Ratings and Features
The 2026 Ford Escape has received top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features on the Escape include airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Optional safety features include a forward collision warning system with automatic emergency braking, a lane departure warning system, and a driver drowsiness monitoring system.
Interior Comfort and Convenience
The 2026 Ford Escape boasts a well-crafted interior that combines premium materials and thoughtful design. Soft-touch surfaces, genuine leather accents, and ambient lighting create a luxurious and inviting atmosphere. The spacious cabin offers ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers, ensuring a comfortable ride even on extended journeys.
Seating Comfort and Storage
The Escape’s seats are designed to provide exceptional comfort and support. The front seats feature adjustable lumbar support and side bolsters for a customized fit. The second row of seats is equally spacious and provides ample legroom for taller passengers. The Escape offers a variety of storage options, including a deep center console, spacious door pockets, and a hidden storage compartment beneath the front passenger seat.
Climate Control and Convenience Features
The Escape’s climate control system ensures a comfortable temperature for all occupants. The dual-zone automatic climate control allows the driver and front passenger to set different temperatures. The rear seats also feature their own vents for personalized comfort. Keyless entry, remote start, and a hands-free liftgate are just a few of the convenience features that make the Escape a pleasure to own. The liftgate opens and closes effortlessly with a simple foot motion, making loading and unloading a breeze.
Comparison to Competitors
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The Ford Escape has several key competitors in the compact SUV segment, including the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Hyundai Tucson. Let’s compare these vehicles in terms of specifications, features, and pricing.
Specifications
| Feature | Ford Escape | Honda CR-V | Toyota RAV4 | Hyundai Tucson |
|—|—|—|—|—|
| Engine | 2.0L EcoBoost I-4 | 1.5L Turbo I-4 | 2.5L Dynamic Force I-4 | 1.6L Turbo I-4 |
| Horsepower | 250 hp | 190 hp | 203 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | 275 lb-ft | 179 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft | 195 lb-ft |
| Fuel Economy (city/highway) | 23/31 mpg | 28/34 mpg | 28/36 mpg | 26/33 mpg |
Features
| Feature | Ford Escape | Honda CR-V | Toyota RAV4 | Hyundai Tucson |
|—|—|—|—|—|
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Blind-spot monitoring | Optional | Standard | Standard | Optional |
| Lane departure warning | Standard | Standard | Standard | Optional |
| Adaptive cruise control | Optional | Standard | Standard | Optional |
Pricing
| Trim | Ford Escape | Honda CR-V | Toyota RAV4 | Hyundai Tucson |
|—|—|—|—|—|
| Base | $27,495 | $26,800 | $27,950 | $27,750 |
| Mid-level | $31,495 | $30,800 | $32,950 | $31,750 |
| Top-of-the-line | $35,495 | $34,800 | $37,950 | $35,750 |
The Escape offers a competitive combination of power, fuel economy, and features. It is slightly more powerful than the CR-V and RAV4, but less fuel-efficient. The Escape also has a slightly lower starting price than the CR-V and RAV4, but a higher top-of-the-line price than the Tucson.
Pricing and Availability
The 2026 Ford Escape is priced competitively in the compact SUV segment. The base S trim starts at $27,995, while the mid-level SE trim is priced at $30,995. The top-of-the-line Titanium trim starts at $34,995.
The Escape is available in all 50 states and most international markets. It is manufactured in Louisville, Kentucky, and is expected to be in high demand due to its combination of affordability, practicality, and fuel efficiency.
Ford offers a variety of incentives and promotions for the Escape, including:
- 0% APR financing for up to 60 months
- $1,000 cash back
- Free maintenance for the first two years or 24,000 miles
These incentives make the Escape an even more attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
FAQ Summary
What is the fuel economy of the 2026 Ford Escape?
The fuel economy of the 2026 Ford Escape varies depending on the chosen powertrain option. However, it is expected to offer impressive fuel efficiency, with the hybrid and plug-in hybrid models delivering exceptional MPG ratings.
How much cargo space does the 2026 Ford Escape offer?
The 2026 Ford Escape boasts a spacious cargo area, providing ample room for luggage, gear, and everyday essentials. With the rear seats folded down, the cargo capacity expands significantly, making it ideal for hauling larger items.
What advanced safety features are available in the 2026 Ford Escape?
The 2026 Ford Escape prioritizes safety, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assist technologies. These features include lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring, enhancing your confidence and peace of mind on the road.