2026 Ford Escape® Model Information in Barrington, IL

Make the most of every day spent on the road with the 2026 Ford Escape®. As you zip across town or set out on the extended journey home for the holidays, the Escape offers the advanced technologies, versatile two-row interior design, and sleek looks that you’ll be sure to appreciate. And, with four different engine options to choose from, including a plug-in hybrid, hybrid, and two turbocharged EcoBoost® engines, there’s a powertrain for every occasion as well. Learn more about the key features, specs, colors, and top reasons to drive home in a new Ford Escape using this model review created by the team at Wickstrom Ford.

Our team of Ford SUV pros approaches every interaction with a three-part commitment to your satisfaction — a customer-centered way of doing business we call The Wickstrom Way.

Experience the Ford Escape for sale at our dealership in Barrington, IL, when you schedule a test drive. For more information about your favorite model, contact your dedicated Wickstrom Ford representative online or by calling (847) 381-8850.

2026 Ford Escape Exterior Industrial Background

2026 Ford Escape Exterior Design

Enjoy sleek, eye-catching exterior styling and practical features with the 2026 Ford Escape. Standard exterior features include LED lighting, a manual liftgate, rear privacy glass, and power side view mirrors. Features like LED fog lamps, larger 18- or 19-inch wheels, a power liftgate, and a unique LED light bar from headlight to headlight are included with higher trims in the Escape lineup. As an optional upgrade, the Escape offers a panoramic Vista Roof® that fills the cabin with warm, natural light. 

What are the standard and available Ford Escape exterior features?

Standard (Active™):

  • 17-in. Shadow Silver-painted aluminum wheels
  • Dual chrome exhaust tips
  • Second-row privacy glass
  • Rear spoiler
  • LED reflector headlamps with Autolamp and signature lighting
  • Configurable daytime running lamps
  • Manual liftgate
  • Side view mirrors with power glass and manual folding
  • Intelligent Access

Available in higher trims:

  • 18-in. or 19-in. wheels
  • Unique rear skid plate
  • Body-color large single-wing rear spoiler
  • Roof rack cross rails
  • LED fog lamps
  • Electronic fuel door release
  • Heated side view mirrors
  • Power liftgate
  • Headlamps with LED light bar

Optional:

  • Panoramic Vista Roof
  • Roof rack crossbars
  • SecuriCode® keyless entry keypad

2026 Ford Escape Interior Design & Technology

Advanced technology and versatile interior design in the 2026 Ford Escape keep you ready for busy days on the go. Among the standard interior features, you will find unique cloth seat upholstery, manual front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, the SYNC® 4 infotainment system with an 8-inch center display, and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ connectivity. As you step up the trim ladder, unique features include heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, power front seats, a 13.2-inch center display, wireless device charging, and an optional B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® with ten speakers.

What are the standard and available Escape interior features?

Standard (Escape Active):

  • Push-button start
  • Unique cloth seat upholstery
  • Six-way manual driver’s seat
  • Four-way manual front passenger’s seat
  • 60/40-split sliding second-row seats
  • Rotary gear shift dial
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control

Available in higher trims:

  • Partial vinyl and cloth or ActiveX seat upholstery
  • Ten-way power driver’s seat
  • Six-way power front passenger’s seat
  • Sport contour front seats
  • Flat-bottom sport-style steering wheel with red stitching
  • Heated front seats
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Memory package for driver’s seat and side view mirrors
  • Automatic-dimming rearview mirror
  • Heated steering wheel

What are the standard and available Escape technology features?

Standard (Active):

  • Ice Blue® instrument panel cluster lighting
  • 8-in. cluster display
  • SYNC 4 infotainment system with 8-in. center display
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • 4G LTE Wi-Fi® hotspot capability
  • SiriusXM® with 360L capability
  • Six speakers

Available on higher trims:

  • 12.3-in. cluster display
  • SYNC 4 infotainment system with 13.2-in. center display and enhanced voice recognition 
  • Connected navigation
  • Wireless charging pad
  • Universal garage door opener
  • Remote start system

Optional:

  • B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen with ten speakers
  • HD Radio™
  • Head-up display
2026 Ford Escape Interior Cargo Space
2026 Ford Escape Interior Infotainment System

2026 Ford Escape Engine & Performance

Prioritize power, fuel efficiency, or a blend of the two with four unique engine options in the 2026 Ford Escape. The standard 1.5L EcoBoost inline three-cylinder (I3) engine offers 180 horsepower, up to 2,000 pounds of towing capacity, and up to 34 highway MPG. In advanced trim levels, the Escape is offered with either a 2.0L EcoBoost inline four-cylinder (I4) that makes 250 horsepower and tows up to 3,500 pounds, or a 2.5L hybrid powertrain that makes 192 horsepower and gets up to 42 MPG on the highway. Achieve up to 101 combined MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) with the Escape Plug-in Hybrid trim and its unique powertrain.

Both EcoBoost engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains are paired with an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT). Selectable drive modes for the Escape include eco, sport, slippery, and normal.

What are the Ford Escape engine and performance specs?

Engine1.5L EcoBoost® I32.0L EcoBoost I42.5L hybrid2.5L plug-in hybrid
Horsepower180 HP250 HP192 HP210 HP
Torque199 lb.-ft.280 lb.-ft.155 lb.-ft.155 lb.-ft.
MPG (City/Hwy)27 / 3423 / 3142 / 36101 combined MPGe
Max. Towing2,000 lbs.3,500 lbs.1,500 lbs.1,500 lbs.
TransmissionEight-speed automaticEight-speed automaticeCVTeCVT
DrivetrainFWD / AWDAWDAWDFWD
2026 Ford Escape Exterior On Forest Road Towing Boat

2026 Ford Escape Capacity & Seating

From weekday errands to weekend getaways, the 2026 Ford Escape has the versatile interior space to accommodate your needs. While both gas and hybrid models can seat up to five people, their interior specs vary slightly. Escape gas models provide 40.7 inches of rear legroom and up to 65.4 cubic feet of cargo space, while Escape hybrid models have 38.9 inches of rear legroom and up to 60.8 cubic feet of cargo volume. 

What are the Ford Escape interior and cargo specs?

2026 Escape EngineGasHybrid/Plug-in Hybrid
SeatingFiveFive
Passenger Volume104 cu.-ft.102.2 cu.-ft.
Headroom (Front/Rear)40 / 39.3 in.40 / 39.3 in.
Legroom (Front/Rear)42.4 / 40.7 in.42.4 / 38.9 in.
Cargo Volume (Max./Behind Second Row)65.4 / 34.4 cu.-ft.60.8 / 34.4 cu.-ft.
2026 Ford Escape Interior Front Seating Side View

2026 Ford Escape Safety Options

Find a wide range of advanced driver assistance features designed to support safe driving in the 2026 Ford Escape. Standard safety technologies in the Escape include those in the Ford Co-Pilot360® suite, including BLIS® (blind spot information system) with rear cross-traffic braking, a lane keeping system, and Pre-Collision Assist® with automatic emergency braking. In elevated trims, Escape safety and support systems include adaptive cruise control and rear parking sensors, with the option for a 360-degree camera and front parking sensors for peace of mind in a wide range of scenarios. 

What are the standard and available Escape safety features?

Standard (Escape Active):

  • Ford Co-Pilot360
    • BLIS with rear cross-traffic braking
    • Lane keeping system
    • Pre-Collision Assist with automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, and dynamic brake support
    • Auto high-beam headlamps
    • Rearview camera
  • SecuriLock® passive anti-theft system

Available in higher trims:

  • Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane centering, and predictive speed assist
  • Evasive steering assist
  • Rear parking sensors
  • Intersection assist
  • Digital rearview camera

Optional:

  • 360-degree camera
  • Front parking sensors
  • Reverse brake assist

2026 Ford Escape Available Colors

  • Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat
  • Vapor Blue Metallic
  • Agate Black Metallic
  • Space Silver Metallic
  • Carbonized Gray Metallic
  • Oxford White
  • Star White Metallic Tri-coat

2026 Ford Escape Available Trims

  • Active $30,350*
  • ST-Line $31,195*
  • ST-Line Select $33,890*
  • Plug-in Hybrid $35,400*
  • Platinum® $36,215*
  • ST-Line Elite $37,210*

2025 Ford Escape® Model Information in Barrington, IL

Realize new possibilities behind the wheel of the versatile, stylish, and connected 2025 Ford Escape®. This dynamic two-row SUV boasts four different engine choices, a strong collection of premium tech, stylish exterior design, and an adaptable interior. Learn more about all it has to offer, including the Ford Escape price by trim, colors, interior specs, engine options, and key features with this model review created by the team at Wickstrom Ford. Analyze the differences between each 2025 Escape model using our trims page.

The 2025 Ford Escape is available for sale now at our Ford dealership in Barrington, IL. Browse our new inventory to pick your favorite model and set up a test drive. See our Ford Escape lease offer for attractive monthly rates on your chosen model. 

Have a question for one of our Ford pros? Contact us online or by calling (847) 381-8850, and we will be more than happy to help you experience car shopping in a customer-centric way — The Wickstrom Way

2025 Ford Escape Exterior Design

Sleek looks and practical exterior design help you stand out in the 2025 Ford Escape. Premium LED lighting is standard, with available LED fog lamps and a dazzling light bar across the top of the grille completing the look across the front of the SUV on select trims. Everyday convenience features like a power liftgate and heated side mirrors lay the groundwork for successful errands and early morning trips alike. If you love warm, natural sunlight, consider adding the panoramic Vista Roof® to your Escape. 

Available exterior features include:

  • 17-, 18-, or 19-in. wheels
  • Dual chrome exhaust tips
  • Automatic on/off LED reflector headlamps with LED signature lighting
  • LED light bar headlamps
  • LED fog lamps
  • Configurable daytime running lamps
  • Rear privacy glass
  • Power liftgate
  • Heated side view mirrors
  • Power liftgate
  • Panoramic Vista Roof
  • Roof rack side rails

2025 Ford Escape Interior Design & Technology

Comfort and connectivity go together in the 2025 Ford Escape. Power-adjustable front seats are available with a heated function. Available dual-zone automatic climate control allows you and your co-pilot to set your interior temperature individually. On chilly winter mornings, you can appreciate the cozy touch of a heated steering wheel. Across the trim lineup, interior materials range from cloth to ActiveX® to a combination of vinyl and cloth. 

Utilize familiar apps, navigation systems, and intuitive communication with your smartphone using wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. This connects you to the SYNC® 4 infotainment system that runs on either an 8-inch touchscreen or a 13.2-inch touchscreen. Further enhancing your everyday convenience, the Escape is offered with Amazon Alexa Built-in voice command capabilities. Each trim includes a six-speaker audio system, and a B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® with ten speakers is available in select models. 

Available interior features include:

    • Unique cloth, vinyl/cloth, ActiveX with mini perforations, or ActiveX seat upholstery with quilting and mini perforations
    • Ten-way power driver’s seat
    • Six-way power front passenger’s seat
    • Heated front seats
    • Second-row 60/40-split folding and sliding second-row seats
  • Memory function for driver’s seat and side view mirrors
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Dual-zone automatic temperature control
  • Rotary gear shift dial
  • Auto-dimming rearview mirror

Available technology features include:

  • 8-in. color instrument cluster or 12.3-in. full digital instrument cluster
  • SYNC 4 with 8-in. touchscreen or 13.2-in. touchscreen
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Six speakers or B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen with ten speakers
  • FordPass® Connect with 4G LTE Wi-Fi® hotspot capability 
  • SiriusXM® with 360L capability
  • Amazon Alexa Built-in
  • Connected navigation
  • Universal garage door opener
  • Wireless charging pad
  • HD Radio™

2025 Ford Escape Engine & Performance

Set out with your preferred blend of power and efficiency with one of the four 2025 Ford Escape engine options. The standard 1.5L EcoBoost® engine makes 180 horsepower and delivers up to 2,000 pounds of maximum towing capacity, while the larger 2.0L EcoBoost uses its 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque to deliver up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity. 

Both hybrid and plug-in hybrid fuel efficiency is available with the Escape. Every trim except the Active™ and Plug-in Hybrid is available with the hybrid powertrain, which uses a combination of gas and electric power to operate with 42 MPG in city driving and 36 MPG on the highway. With the Escape Plug-in Hybrid, the fuel economy estimate stretches to 101 combined miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) driven by an all-electric range of 37 miles. Both combination powertrains can tow up to 1,500 pounds. 

Opt for front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) with the 1.5L EcoBoost or hybrid engine. The 2.0L EcoBoost is exclusively paired with AWD, and the plug-in hybrid with FWD. Both gas engines send their power through an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the hybrid and plug-in hybrid use an electronic continuously variable transmission.

Compare the gas and hybrid engine specs for the Ford Escape in the following table. 

Engine

1.5L EcoBoost I3

2.0L EcoBoost I4

2.5L Atkinson cycle I4 hybrid engine 

Plug-in Hybrid 2.5L Atkinson cycle I4 engine

Horsepower

180 HP

250 HP

192 total HP

210 total HP

Torque

199 lb.-ft.

280 lb.-ft.

155 lb.-ft.

155 lb.-ft.

MPG (City/Hwy)

27 / 34

23 / 31

42 / 36

101 combined MPGe

Max. Towing Capacity

2,000 lbs.

3,500 lbs.

1,500 lbs.

1,500 lbs.

Drivetrain

FWD / AWD

AWD

FWD / AWD

FWD

Transmission

Eight-speed automatic transmission

eCVT

2025 Ford Escape Capacity & Seating

Discover everyday versatility within the two-row 2025 Ford Escape. Seat five, with a comfortable 42.4 inches of front legroom. Slide the rear seats up to 5 inches forward or back and blend your ideal combination of cargo space and legroom — 40.7 inches of rear legroom in gas-powered models or 38.9 inches of rear legroom in the hybrid Escape trims. Likewise, gas Escape models provide slightly more maximum cargo space — 65.4 cubic feet versus 60.8 cubic feet in hybrid models.

See the Escape interior dimensions in the following chart. 

Seating

Five

Headroom (Front/Rear)

40 / 39.3 in.

Front Legroom

42.4 in.

Rear Legroom (Gas/Hybrid)

40.7 / 38.9 in.

Cargo Space Behind Second Row (Gas/Hybrid)

37.5 / 34.4 cu.-ft.

Max. Cargo Space (Gas/Hybrid)

65.4 / 60.8 cu.-ft.

2025 Ford Escape Safety Options

Improve your sense of serenity on the road with the advanced safety technology in the 2025 Ford Escape. Among the standard Ford Co-Pilot360® technology features, you will find support from BLIS® (blind spot information system) with rear cross-traffic braking that help you avoid collisions outside your line of sight, and Pre-Collision Assist® with automatic emergency braking for unexpected situations. Optional upgrades in select trims include adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go support and a 360-degree camera that boosts the field of view around your vehicle.

Available safety features include:

  • Ford Co-Pilot360 technology
    • BLIS with rear cross-traffic braking
    • Pre-Collision Assist with automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, and dynamic brake support
    • Lane-keeping system 
    • Rearview camera
    • Auto high-beam headlamps
  • Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ 
    • Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane centering assist, and predictive speed assist
    • Connected navigation with one year of connectivity
    • Evasive steering assist
    • Rear parking sensor
    • Intersection assist
  • Digital rearview camera
  • Reverse brake assist
  • Front parking sensor 
  • 360-degree camera with split view
  • Head-up display

2025 Ford Escape Available Colors

  • Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat
  • Agate Black Metallic
  • Space Silver Metallic
  • Carbonized Gray Metallic
  • Vapor Blue Metallic
  • Oxford White
  • Star White Metallic Tri-Coat

2025 Ford Escape Available Trims

  • Active — $29,515
  • ST-Line — $30,360
  • ST-Line Select — $33,195
  • Platinum — $35,910
  • ST-Line Elite — $36,905
  • Plug-in Hybrid — $37,400

Learn More About the Ford Escape

Continue researching whether the Ford Escape is the right choice for you and your family with help from the team at Wickstrom Ford. After seeing the notable features and specs included in this review, focus your attention on the trim level with the options you want using the detailed lists on our trims page.

Experience all that the Escape has to offer when you take your favorite option for a test drive at our Ford dealership in Barrington, IL. Shop our new inventory for current-year options or browse our used inventory for high-quality pre-owned choices as well. Focus your shopping on the trim that applies to our current Escape lease deal.

As always, your dedicated Wickstrom Ford representative will be happy to answer all of your Escape-related questions. Start the conversation with our online contact form or by calling us at (847) 381-8850.

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