2026 Ford Escape
Starting MSRP $30,350
Seating Up To 5 Passengers
Powertrain Options 4
EPA-Est. MPG (City/Hwy) 42/36
By 2000, Ford had plenty of experience with SUVs, but the Escape that debuted as a 2001 model was Ford’s first crossover. Four years later, the Escape became the first Ford model with a hybrid drivetrain and was also the industry’s first hybrid crossover. Across four design generations, what started out as a very boxy design that looked like a smaller Ford Explorer has evolved to become the opposite of boxy. Now, with the similarly sized Bronco Sport catering to the rugged off-road side of the market, the Escape has been free to become more sporty with the addition of the ST-line of models and more efficient with several trim levels having hybrid version as well as a plug-in hybrid model.
Performance
The 2026 Ford Escape is built to fit your lifestyle, offering four distinct powertrain options that combine performance, fuel efficiency, and advanced technology. Standard on the Active and ST-Line trims is a 1.5L EcoBoost® turbocharged engine that delivers 180 horsepower and up to 34 highway mpg. It comes with front-wheel drive (FWD), while all-wheel drive (AWD) is available on select models for added traction. For drivers seeking more power, the available 2.0L EcoBoost® engine produces 250 horsepower and comes standard with all-wheel drive, making it ideal for towing (up to 3,500 lbs) or more spirited driving. Fuel efficiency remains solid, with up to 31 mpg on the highway.
If fuel savings are your top priority, the Escape Hybrid pairs a 2.5L engine with an electric motor to deliver 192 total system horsepower and up to 42 mpg in the city. Available in both FWD and AWD, it offers an excellent balance of performance and economy. For maximum efficiency, the Escape Plug-In Hybrid offers an EPA-estimated 37 miles of electric-only range before seamlessly switching to hybrid mode—perfect for short commutes and daily errands. It charges overnight with a standard home outlet and delivers around 40 mpg combined once in hybrid mode.
All 2026 Escape models feature a comfortable and controlled ride, thanks to a 4-wheel independent suspension. Select trims, like the Hybrid ST-Line Select, include a sport-tuned suspension for added responsiveness. Whether you prioritize performance, fuel economy, or electric driving, the 2026 Ford Escape offers a smart and capable SUV for every type of driver.
Exterior
The 2026 Ford Escape showcases a bold and refined exterior design that sets it apart in the compact SUV segment. With sleek body lines, a wider stance, and modern detailing, the new Ford Escape offers a sportier and more confident presence on the road. Standard LED headlamps with an available light bar signature give the front fascia a distinctive and upscale look. Alloy wheel options vary by trim, starting with 17-inch aluminum wheels on the Escape Active, moving up to 18-inch wheels on most mid-level trims, and topping out with eye-catching 19-inch machined-face wheels on the Escape ST-Line Elite and Escape Platinum models.
Ford offers a range of exterior paint colors that let you personalize your crossover to match your style. Standard and Premium color options include Agate Black Metallic, Carbonized Gray Metallic, Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, Space Silver Metallic, Oxford White, Vapor Blue Metallic, and Star White Metallic Tri-Coat.
Trim-specific accents help each version of the 2026 Escape stand out. ST-Line models feature black window trim and sporty design cues, while the Platinum trim adds upscale chrome accents for a more premium appearance. A Panoramic Vista Roof is available on most trim levels, offering expansive views and open-air driving for both rows. Select models also include body-color heated side mirrors, roof rails, and other exterior features that enhance both form and function. Overall, the redesigned 2026 Ford Escape exterior blends modern styling with everyday practicality — making it a smart choice for SUV shoppers looking for versatility with standout looks.
Interior
The 2026 Ford Escape interior is designed with comfort, versatility, and everyday convenience in mind — making it one of the most spacious compact SUVs in its class. With seating for up to five passengers, the Escape offers generous room for both front and rear occupants. Drivers and front passengers enjoy approximately 42.4 inches of legroom and 57.6 inches of shoulder room, while rear-seat passengers get up to 40.7 inches of legroom in gas-powered models and 38.9 inches in hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants. Whether you’re commuting or taking a weekend trip, everyone can stretch out and ride comfortably.
When it comes to storage, the 2026 Escape delivers impressive flexibility. Gas-powered models offer around 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats — plenty of room for groceries, sports gear, or luggage. Folding down the second row unlocks even more room, ideal for larger hauls. The Escape also features practical interior touches like a rotary gear shift dial that opens up space in the center console, and available features like a wireless charging pad, multiple USB ports, and customizable infotainment settings that keep you connected on the go. Whether you're looking for comfort, tech, or utility, the new Ford Escape interior checks all the boxes for today’s SUV shopper.
Technology
The 2026 Ford Escape is packed with smart technology designed to keep you connected, comfortable, and in control. Every model comes standard with SYNC® 4, Ford’s advanced infotainment system, featuring either an 8-inch or available 13.2-inch touchscreen. The system includes wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, so you can easily access apps, music, and navigation without plugging in your phone. Voice commands are more natural and responsive, allowing you to control navigation, media, and more with simple, conversational speech. Connectivity is a strong point in the new Escape. FordPass® Connect with a built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot is standard across the lineup, supporting multiple devices for your passengers. Convenient USB ports are available throughout the cabin, and higher trims include a wireless charging pad compatible with Qi-enabled smartphones — so cords aren’t necessary.
Every 2026 Escape comes with dual-zone automatic climate control, so the driver and front passenger can each set their ideal temperature. Starting with the ST-Line Select trim, you also get remote start functionality, letting you warm up or cool down the cabin before you even open the door. Music lovers will appreciate the standard 6-speaker audio system, while select trims offer an available Bang & Olufsen™ premium sound system with 10 speakers and a subwoofer, delivering immersive audio for every drive. Additional tech touches include a space-saving rotary gear shift dial, a customizable digital instrument cluster, and available over-the-air updates, so your Escape stays current with the latest software enhancements.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The 2026 Ford Escape comes standard with a full suite of safety and driver-assist features designed to keep you protected on every drive. All models include AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control (RSC®), Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), and electronic traction control. A strong lineup of airbags is standard: dual-stage front airbags, front-seat side-impact airbags, curtain airbags for both rows, and a driver knee airbag. The Escape also features a digital rearview camera, tire-pressure monitoring, and a Safety Canopy® system with rollover sensors.
Across the trim levels, more advanced driver aids become available. On higher trims, you’ll find Adaptive Cruise Control (with stop-and-go and lane centering), the Lane-Keeping System (with assist, alert, and driver alert features), Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Rear Cross-Traffic Braking, and Intersection Assist. The Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid versions also include a Pedestrian Alert Sounder as standard. The 2026 Escape also supports Curve Control, post-collision braking, and torque-vectoring control to help with stability in turns. The 2026 Escape adds newer assistance systems aimed at increasing safety and confidence, especially on highway drives.
2026 Ford Escape Trim Levels
2026 Ford Escape
Active™
Starting Price $30,350- 1.5L EcoBoost® I-3 with Auto Start-Stop Technology
- Available all-wheel drive
- 6-way manual driver seat
- 12.3" Cluster Display
- BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert
- Panoramic Vista Roof® with Power Shade
- Privacy Glass - 2nd Row Side and Liftgate
- Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS)
- 8-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Curve Control
- 17" Shadow Silver-Painted Aluminum Wheels
2026 Ford Escape
ST-Line
Starting Price $31,195Includes all All Escape® Active standard features, plus:
- 1.5L EcoBoost® engine
- Available all-wheel drive
- 8-way power driver seat with red stitching
- 18" Rock Metallic-painted aluminum wheels
- Black Mesh Upper Grille with Black Bars Lower
- Intelligent Access with Push-Button Start
- SYNC® 4 with 8" Center Display
- Flat Bottom Sport Style Steering Wheel with Red Stitching
- SOS Post-Crash Alert System™
- Ice Blue® Instrument Panel Cluster Lighting
- Privacy Glass - 2nd Row Side and Liftgate
2026 Ford Escape
ST-Line Select
Starting Price $35,015Includes All Escape® ST-Line standard features, plus:
- 2.0L EcoBoost® or hybrid engine
- Standard all-wheel drive
- Intelligent Access with Push-Button Start
- Heated front-row seats and steering wheel
- Ice Blue® Instrument Panel Cluster Lighting
- Power Liftgate
- 10-Way Power Driver Seat
- BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Rear Cross-Traffic Braking
- Remote Start System
- 8" Cluster Display
- SOS Post-Crash Alert System™
2026 Ford Escape
Platinum™
Starting Price $37,940Includes All Escape® Active standard features, plus:
- 2.0L EcoBoost® or hybrid engine
- Standard all-wheel drive
- 13.2" center display
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Lane Centering, and Predictive Speed Assist
- AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control™)
- Driver's Seat and Driver/Front Passenger Sideview Mirrors with Memory
- Heated Front Row Seats
- 10-Way Power Driver Seat
- Piano Black Grille with Chrome Strip
- Privacy Glass - 2nd Row Side and Liftgate
- LED Fog Lamps
2026 Ford Escape
ST-Line Elite
Starting Price $38,935Includes All Escape® ST-Line Select standard features, plus:
- 2.0L EcoBoost® or hybrid engine
- Standard all-wheel drive
- 13.2" center display
- Body-Color Large Single Wing Rear Spoiler
- 19" Machined-Face Ebony-Painted Aluminum Wheels
- LED Fog Lamps
- Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+ with Adaptive Cruise Control
- Intelligent Access with Push-Button Start
- 10-Way Power Driver Seat
- SOS Post-Crash Alert System™
- Reverse Brake Assist
2026 Ford Escape
Plug-in Hybrid
Starting Price $35,400Includes all All Escape® Active standard features, plus:
- 2.5L iVCT Atkinson Cycle I-4 hybrid engine
- Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS)
- Standard front-wheel drive
- Intelligent Access with Push-Button Start
- 13.2" center display
- 101 EPA-est. MPGe (combined)
- Intersection Assist
- BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Rear Cross-Traffic Braking
- Piano Black Grille with Chrome Strip
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Lane Centering, and Predictive Speed Assist
- Power Liftgate
At Benna Ford in Superior, WI, you will have an automotive experience unlike any other. You can find new Ford inventory, including the F-150, Mustang, Bronco, Ranger, Explorer, Escape, and an unmatched collection of used car, truck, van, SUV and crossover inventory at our dealership near you. Are you interested in leasing or financing your Ford Escape? The Finance Department at Benna Ford can help you find the right lease offer or finance solution that fits your budget. We cultivate relationships with many banks, lenders, and other financial organizations to provide you with great options in purchasing your new vehicle. In addition to the comprehensive factory warranty that comes with your new Ford Escape, we offer extended warranty and protection programs to safeguard your investment. Get the best deals and specials available to you on the Ford Escape. Our knowledgeable sales staff wants to help you find the perfect fit in a new Ford or used car. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Benna Ford family and help you find your new car or used vehicle. Your support and customer service doesn’t stop after you sign your deal. The expert Service Department at our Ford dealership near you is always ready to help with any repairs or maintenance you might need to keep your vehicle running perfectly. Our Express Service Lane will get you back on the road quickly when you need basic maintenance like an oil change or tire rotation. Would you like to make your new car all your own with personalized upgrades? Our well-stocked Parts Department has all of the Ford genuine parts and accessories you need for the best customization of your vehicle. Make your car, truck, or SUV uniquely yours to fit perfectly in your lifestyle. We are eager to help you on your car buying and vehicle ownership journey. Visit us today at Benna Ford!