Discover the 2026 Ford Escape at Jim Schmidt Ford Inc.
The 2026 Ford Escape is a compact SUV designed to deliver versatility, efficiency, and everyday comfort. With a wide range of trim levels and powertrain options, the Escape offers flexibility for commuters, families, and drivers who want a balance of performance and practicality. Its spacious interior, modern technology, and efficient engines make it well-suited for both daily driving and longer trips.
Ford Escape Trim Levels and Options
The Escape lineup includes multiple trims, allowing drivers to select features and performance levels that align with their priorities. The Active trim serves as a well-equipped starting point with essential comfort features and available all-wheel drive (AWD). It offers a practical option for drivers seeking reliability and everyday convenience.
The ST-Line series adds sport-inspired styling and additional performance features. Available ST-Line, ST-Line Select, and ST-Line Elite trims offer upgraded materials, advanced technology, and stronger engine options. These trims are designed for drivers who want enhanced responsiveness and a more dynamic driving experience.
Hybrid trims such as the ST-Line Select Hybrid, ST-Line Elite Hybrid, and Platinum Hybrid offer improved fuel efficiency while maintaining SUV capability. These models provide a balance between performance and reduced fuel consumption, making them ideal for drivers who want efficiency without sacrificing versatility.
Escape® Plug-in Hybrid
- 2.5L IVCT Atkinson Cycle I-4 Hybrid Engine
- Standard Front-Wheel Drive
- 13.2" LCD Touchscreen
- 42/36 EPA-Est. MPG (City/Hwy)
Escape® Active™
- 1.5L EcoBoost® I‑3 with Auto Start-Stop Technology
- Available All-Wheel Drive
- 6-Way Manual Driver Seat
- BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) With Rear Cross-Traffic Braking
Escape® ST-Line
- EcoBoost® or Hybrid Engine
- Available All-Wheel Drive
- 8-Way Power Driver Seat with Red Stitching
- 18" Rock Metallic-Painted Aluminum Wheels
Escape® ST-Line Select
- EcoBoost® or Hybrid Engine
- Standard All-Wheel Drive
- Heated Front-Row Seats & Steering Wheel
- Power Liftgate
Escape® ST-Line Elite
- EcoBoost® or Hybrid Engine
- Standard All-Wheel Drive
- 13.2" LCD Touchscreen
- Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+ with Adaptive Cruise Control
Escape® Platinum
- EcoBoost® or Hybrid Engine
- Standard All-Wheel Drive
- 13.2" LCD Touchscreen
- Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+ with Adaptive Cruise Control
Performance and Powertrain Choices
The Ford Escape offers three distinct powertrain options. The standard 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine delivers 180 horsepower and provides smooth acceleration with excellent fuel economy. It pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission for responsive performance and efficient daily driving.
For drivers who want more power, the available 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine produces 250 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. This engine delivers stronger acceleration and enhanced capability when carrying passengers or cargo.
The hybrid powertrain combines a 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor to produce 192 horsepower. This system helps improve fuel efficiency while maintaining the performance and versatility expected from a compact SUV.
Plug-In Hybrid
The available plug-in hybrid powertrain with 210 total system horsepower*† gives you great acceleration, impressive range, and an included mobile cord to power up with a regular 120v outlet. It'll also run like a regular hybrid if you don't feel like plugging in.
* Calculated via combined performance of the engine and electric motor(s) with peak battery power. The calculations utilize SAE J1349® engine results and Ford electric motor dyno testing. Your results may vary.
† Hybrid (Powersplit & MHT, 20MY+): Calculated via combined performance of the engine and electric motor(s) with peak battery power. The calculations utilize SAE J1349® engine results and Ford electric motor dyno testing. Your results may vary.
Hybrid
Combine gas and electric forces in the available hybrid powertrain with 192 total system horsepower.*† Regenerative braking helps charge the battery without plugging in, and fuel is there when you need it.
* Calculated via combined performance of the engine and electric motor(s) with peak battery power. The calculations utilize SAE J1349® engine results and Ford electric motor dyno testing. Your results may vary.
† Hybrid (Powersplit & MHT, 20MY+): Calculated via combined performance of the engine and electric motor(s) with peak battery power. The calculations utilize SAE J1349® engine results and Ford electric motor dyno testing. Your results may vary.
EcoBoost
Choose the 1.5L engine with 180 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm*‡ or the available 2.0L EcoBoost engine with 250 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm,*‡ and tap into towing options.
* Calculated via combined performance of the engine and electric motor(s) with peak battery power. The calculations utilize SAE J1349® engine results and Ford electric motor dyno testing. Your results may vary.
‡ Horsepower and torque ratings based on premium fuel per SAE J1349® standard. Your results may vary.
All-Wheel Drive Capability
Many Ford Escape models offer available all-wheel drive, providing enhanced traction and stability in changing road conditions. This system automatically adjusts power distribution between the front and rear wheels, helping maintain control on wet roads, snow, or uneven surfaces. All-wheel drive adds confidence during winter driving and improves overall vehicle stability.
The intelligent all-wheel drive system continuously monitors road conditions and driver input, making adjustments in real time to optimize grip and handling. This helps reduce wheel slip and improves performance during acceleration, cornering, and braking. Drivers also benefit from improved control when driving on gravel roads or during heavy rain. The added stability helps make daily commutes, road trips, and seasonal driving conditions more manageable and predictable.
Three Engines - Four Powertrains
2.5L Hybrid
This available engine produces 192 total system horsepower between the powertrain and battery. Using regenerative braking, it captures energy normally lost through braking to help charge the battery - potentially prolonging overall range.
2.5L Plug-In Hybrid
With 210 total system horsepower between the powertrain and battery, this available option combines great acceleration with impressive range. You can also choose to charge using a standard 120V outlet with the included level 1 mobile power cord. Don't feel like plugging in? No problem - it'll run as a regular hybrid.
2.0L EcoBoost®
The most powerful available gas engine in the 2025 Ford Escape® lineup features direct injection and turbocharging for exhilarating performance. With 250 horsepower, and 280 lb.-ft. of torque, a drive a day will keep the boredom away.
1.5L EcoBoost
With 180 horsepower ® 6,000 rpm, this engine features lightweight components and Auto Start-Stop Technology to help reduce fuel consumption and vehicle emissions - especially during stop-and-go traffic.
Design
Standout Style
Exterior
Form. Function. Finesse.
More Than Just a Pretty Face
LED Light Bar
The available LED light bar adds distinctive, instantly recognizable style.
Power Liftgate
Just press a button on the available power liftgate, the key fob, or inside and up goes the rear hatch. Now you can access up to an available 65.4 cu. ft. of cargo storage behind the first row.
Panoramic Vista Roof® With Power Shade
This available feature tilts and slides all the way back, so you can bask in the sun at the press of a button.
Interior
Vibes You Want - Versatility You Need
Interior Comfort and Technology
The Ford Escape interior is designed to maximize comfort and convenience. Seating for five passengers provides ample space, while flexible cargo configurations allow drivers to adapt the interior for passengers or gear. Fold-flat rear seats expand cargo capacity for larger items.
Technology features include advanced infotainment systems, smartphone integration, and digital displays that keep drivers connected and informed. Higher trim levels offer premium materials and additional comfort features that enhance the driving experience.
ST-Line Sport Contour Bucket Seats
The best seat in the house might be parked outside. These available seats combine comfort, style, and performance.
Loads of Leg Room
Over 40 inches of available space up front means passengers can kick back and relax on long rides.
Sliding Second-Row Seats
Move the 60/40 split-fold seat back for up to 5.9 inches of additional backseat leg room, or fold it down for extra cargo space.
Cavernous Cargo Space
With up to 65.4 cu. ft. of available cargo area behind the first row, you've got enough room for almost anything.*
*Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and weight distribution.
Technology
Intuitive Innovation
4G LTE Wi-Fi® Hotspot
When equipped, FordPass® Connect allows you and your passengers to enjoy an available 4G LTE in-vehicle Wi-Fi hotspot powered by AT&T. Connect up to 10 devices up to 50 feet outside the vehicle.
Service and Long-Term Support
Maintaining your Ford Escape helps preserve performance and reliability. Routine maintenance, genuine parts, and professional service support long-term ownership. Access to factory-trained technicians ensures your vehicle receives proper care throughout its lifespan.
Apps That Add More Joy to Your Ride
Apple CarPlay® Compatibility
Wirelessly use what you love about your iPhone on your in-vehicle display, including Apple Maps and supported 3rd party navigation apps.
Android Auto™
Enjoy wireless mobile connectivity and most of your favorite apps.* Play music, listen to podcasts, or call your best friend hands-free using your touchscreen or a voice command.
*Don't drive distracted or while using handheld devices. Use voice controls.
Alexa Built-In
Access the info you need while traveling, with maps, voice assistance, and more in the app screen.†
SiriusXM With 360L
Enjoy thousands of music, sports, and podcast channels, including streaming and on-demand content you won't find elsewhere.
Ford Co-Pilot360® Technology Highlights
Reverse Brake Assist
Back out more confidently. Available Reverse Brake Assist can alert you to stationary objects and pedestrians behind you. It can even bring you to a complete stop if you don't react in time.
Blind Spot Information System
Alerts you to vehicles in the lanes beside you and traffic crossing behind you when backing up.
Choosing the Right Ford Escape
The Ford Escape offers a variety of trims, engines, and features designed to meet different driving needs. Drivers who prioritize efficiency may prefer hybrid models, while those seeking stronger performance can choose turbocharged engine options. Premium trims provide enhanced comfort, advanced technology, and refined interior design.
With its combination of efficiency, versatility, and modern features, the 2026 Ford Escape remains a strong choice for drivers seeking a compact SUV that adapts to a wide range of lifestyles.
FAQs
There is up to 65.4 cu. ft. of cargo space available behind the first row.*
*Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and weight distribution.
The Ford Escape dimensions are as follows:
- Length: FWD is 180.1 inches; AWD is 181.2 inches
- Overall width With Mirrors: 85.6 inches
- Overall Width Without Mirrors: 74.1 inches
- Height: EcoBoost models are 66.0 inches; Hybrid/PHEV models are 66.1 inches
- Wheelbase: 106.7 inches
- Cargo capacity: EcoBoost models have 37.5 cubic-feet behind second row; Hybrid/PHEV have 34.4 cubic-feet behind second row
- Maximum cargo capacity: EcoBoost models have 65.4 cubic-feet behind first row; Hybrid/PHEV have 60.8 cubic-feet behind first row
Ford Escape delivers an impressive towing capacity of up to 3,500 lbs. when equipped with the available Class II Trailer Tow Package and 2.0L EcoBoost engine.* Other engine configurations deliver anywhere from 1,500 to 2000 lbs. of towing power.
There are three engines and four powertrains available on the 2025 Ford Escape: 2.5L I-4 Hybrid, 2.5L I-4 Plug-In Hybrid, 2.0L EcoBoost, and 1.5L EcoBoost.
Yes, the 2025 Ford Escape offers available All-Wheel Drive.
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Jim Schmidt Ford Inc.
405 West High Street
Hicksville, OH 43526
- Sales: (419) 542-7776
