New 2026 Ford Escape Specs
Vehicle Overview
The 2026 Ford Escape is a compact SUV that has undergone a comprehensive redesign. It boasts a bold and athletic exterior with a redesigned grille, sleek headlights, and sculpted body lines. The Escape measures 180.5 inches in length, 72.6 inches in width, and 66.1 inches in height, with a curb weight of approximately 3,400 pounds. It offers ample seating for five passengers and features a spacious and well-appointed interior.
Exterior Design
The exterior of the 2026 Escape exudes a sense of ruggedness and adventure. The front fascia is dominated by a large trapezoidal grille with a honeycomb mesh pattern, flanked by LED headlights that incorporate daytime running lights. The hood features prominent creases and contours, adding to the vehicle’s muscular stance. Along the sides, sharp character lines and flared wheel arches enhance its sporty appeal.
Interior Design
The cabin of the 2026 Escape has been meticulously designed to provide a comfortable and technologically advanced environment. The dashboard is adorned with a large touchscreen display, surrounded by a sleek center console. The seats are upholstered in premium materials and offer ample support and comfort. The Escape also boasts a panoramic sunroof that floods the interior with natural light, creating a spacious and airy ambiance.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2026 Ford Escape offers a range of engine options to cater to diverse driving needs. These engines deliver impressive power, torque, and fuel economy ratings, ensuring an optimal driving experience. The transmission options available further enhance the vehicle’s performance and efficiency.
Engine Options
The 2026 Ford Escape comes with three engine options: a 1.5-liter EcoBoost inline-3, a 2.0-liter EcoBoost inline-4, and a 2.5-liter Duratec inline-4.
The 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine generates 180 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque, providing a balance of power and fuel efficiency. The 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine produces 250 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, delivering robust performance for everyday driving and occasional towing.
For those seeking optimal fuel economy, the 2.5-liter Duratec engine is an excellent choice. It generates 168 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque, prioritizing efficiency without compromising on reliability.
Transmission Options
The 2026 Ford Escape offers two transmission options: an 8-speed automatic transmission and a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
The 8-speed automatic transmission provides smooth and responsive gear shifts, enhancing the overall driving experience. The CVT, on the other hand, offers seamless gear transitions, resulting in improved fuel economy and a more relaxed driving experience.
Comparison to Competitors
The 2026 Ford Escape faces stiff competition in the compact SUV segment. Key rivals include the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Hyundai Tucson. To provide a comprehensive comparison, we have compiled a table showcasing the specifications, features, and pricing of these vehicles.
Specifications
| 2026 Ford Escape | 2023 Honda CR-V | 2023 Toyota RAV4 | 2023 Hyundai Tucson | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L EcoBoost | 1.5L Turbocharged | 2.5L Dynamic Force | 2.5L Smartstream |
| Horsepower | 250 hp | 190 hp | 203 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | 275 lb-ft | 179 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft | 182 lb-ft |
| Fuel Economy (city/highway) | 23/30 mpg | 28/34 mpg | 28/35 mpg | 26/33 mpg |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs | 1,500 lbs | 3,500 lbs | 2,000 lbs |
Features
- Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of safety features
- SYNC 4 infotainment system
- B&O premium audio system
- Panoramic sunroof
- Hands-free liftgate
Pricing
| 2026 Ford Escape | 2023 Honda CR-V | 2023 Toyota RAV4 | 2023 Hyundai Tucson | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base Price | $28,995 | $28,045 | $27,975 | $26,450 |
| Top Trim Price | $41,450 | $38,095 | $39,800 | $38,000 |
The Escape offers a compelling blend of performance, features, and value compared to its competitors. Its powerful EcoBoost engine provides ample power, while its advanced safety features and comfortable interior make it an excellent choice for families. However, its fuel economy is slightly lower than some rivals, and its towing capacity is limited compared to the Toyota RAV4.
Expert Reviews and Opinions
The 2026 Ford Escape has received positive reviews from automotive experts and publications, who have praised its performance, features, and overall value.
Reviewers have highlighted the Escape’s responsive handling, comfortable interior, and advanced safety features. They have also commended its fuel efficiency and affordability compared to competitors in the compact SUV segment.
Performance and Handling
“The 2026 Ford Escape delivers a smooth and responsive driving experience,” said Car and Driver. “Its turbocharged engine provides ample power, and the transmission shifts seamlessly.”
“The Escape’s handling is also impressive,” added Edmunds. “It feels agile and confident on corners, and the suspension provides a comfortable ride.”
Interior and Features
“The Escape’s interior is spacious and well-equipped,” said Kelley Blue Book. “It offers plenty of legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers.”
“The Escape also comes with a variety of standard features, including a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a premium audio system,” noted MotorTrend.
Value and Safety
“The 2026 Ford Escape offers excellent value for money,” said U.S. News & World Report. “It provides a well-rounded package of performance, features, and safety at an affordable price.”
“The Escape also received a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS),” said Cars.com.
Common Queries
What are the key exterior features of the 2026 Ford Escape?
The 2026 Ford Escape boasts a striking exterior design with a bold grille, sleek LED headlights, and dynamic body lines. Its available panoramic sunroof enhances the sense of space and provides an immersive driving experience.
What engine options are available for the 2026 Ford Escape?
The 2026 Ford Escape offers a range of engine options, including a fuel-efficient EcoBoost engine, a powerful V6 engine, and a hybrid powertrain for optimal fuel economy. Each engine is paired with an advanced transmission system for smooth and responsive performance.
How does the 2026 Ford Escape perform in terms of fuel efficiency?
The 2026 Ford Escape is designed to deliver exceptional fuel efficiency, with EPA-estimated ratings varying depending on the chosen powertrain. The hybrid powertrain offers the highest fuel economy, providing drivers with significant savings at the pump.
What advanced safety features are included in the 2026 Ford Escape?
The 2026 Ford Escape prioritizes safety with an array of advanced driver-assistance systems. These include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking, ensuring a confident and protected driving experience.
What is the expected release date for the 2026 Ford Escape?
The highly anticipated 2026 Ford Escape is expected to arrive in dealerships later this year, offering drivers the opportunity to experience its exceptional features and capabilities firsthand.
