Ford wrapped up Escape production in mid-December, closing the chapter on one of its most accessible and widely bought SUVs. With $2 billion going into reworking the plant for a new lineup of affordable EVs, this final model year is really about what the Escape already does well, and whether it still fits what you need. Find out in this 2026 Ford Escape review.
Key Takeaways
- This is the final year of the Escape before an (as yet) unknown EV replaces it.
- Since the Escape's demise was in the works, Ford hasn't made any real updates for the past two years.
- You get ample engine choices in the Escape.
Changes to the Escape in Its Final Year
The Escape has been mostly the same for a few years now. There's only one real change for 2026, and it simplifies the lineup more than anything else. The hybrid no longer comes with front-wheel drive. From here on out, every hybrid Escape is all-wheel drive.
There is one more thing to be aware of. The Escape's last model year is even harder thanks to emissions standards in certain states. Buyers in California, New York, Massachusetts, Vermont, Oregon, or Washington can't get the new model year. If you live in one of these locations, you'll have to look at dealerships elsewhere or look into 2025 models.
What's the Escape's Engine Lineup Like?
In short, it's extensive with four powertrains. There are two gas engines, a hybrid, and a plug-in hybrid, so there's a decent range of options depending on how you drive.
The standard hybrid produces 192 horsepower, comes with all-wheel drive, and can reach up to 39 mpg, making it the most efficient choice in the lineup. The plug-in hybrid steps things up to 210 horses. With it, you have the ability to handle short trips on electric power alone, which can make a big difference if most of your driving is local.
If you prefer gas, the standard engine is a 180-horsepower turbocharged three-cylinder. At the top of the heap is a 250-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder. No matter your choice, all pair with an 8-speed automatic and front- or all-wheel-drive.
The Escape's Modern Tech
Trims lower on the Escape's lineup feature an 8.0-inch touchscreen, while higher trims move up to a larger 13.2-inch display. Both run Ford's Sync 4 system and include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so connecting your phone doesn't require a cable.
The Escape also supports over-the-air updates; the system stays current without you needing to schedule a dealership visit. If you're looking for more features, available upgrades include a 10-speaker B&O sound system, built-in navigation, a head-up display, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
Should You Consider the Ford Escape?
The Escape continues to offer comfort and flexibility across different trims. What's different now is how limited it's becoming. Inventory is already starting to thin out in some areas, and that's only going to continue over the next few months. If you've been considering this compact SUV, this is the last window to find a new model on a dealer lot. Once they're gone, there isn't another version coming, so it makes sense to get it while you can. Contact Jarrett-Gordon Ford in Winter Haven today!