Will There Be A 2026 Ford Escape? Fords Move To All Electric

The Ford Escape is a popular compact SUV that first arrived at Ford dealerships in 2001. It's been a staple for Ford, with its peppy four-cylinder engine, diverse trim lineup, and feature-filled cabin. But will the Escape be back for 2026? The team at Stivers of Montgomery has put together a quick look at the Escape and what's in store for the model. 

Will There Be a 2026 Ford Escape? What We Know So Far

After much speculation about whether there would be a 2026 Ford Escape, it's confirmed that the 2026 model will arrive this year, but it will be the last model year for the small SUV, and it will only be available in select states due to emissions laws. 

Ford is making a well-publicized shift toward an all-electric lineup, and the Escape will be discontinued after 2026 so Ford can retool its Louisville plant to build electric vehicles. The process is expected to take about 10 months, but when it reopens, it will have a new system designed to build EVs on a new universal EV platform. 

Ford's Transition to Electric Vehicles and How It Affects the Escape

Ford plans to broaden its electric vehicle lineup for several reasons. The company wants to reduce CO2 emissions and improve its profits. They also want to reach a larger customer base, and with many consumers looking to do their part for the environment and reduce their fuel costs, they are seeking electric and hybrid vehicles. 

Ford plans to release a new electric commercial van in 2026, and they have two electric pickup trucks in the works for 2027. The next-generation electric truck will build on the F-150 Lightning, offering features and experiences such as bi-directional charging. Ford also plans to introduce a new family of electric three-row SUVs. These will include hybrid powertrains with a focus on performance and efficiency. 

What Drivers Loved About the 2025 Ford Escape

Drivers love the 2025 Ford Escape for its spacious and comfortable interior, powertrain options, and the sharp exterior style. Its versatility and affordability made it a top contender in the compact SUV market. 

Buyers had several powertrain options, including a 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbo with 180 horsepower and a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder with 250 horsepower. Ford also offered the Escape with hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. The 2.5-liter plug-in hybrid produces up to 210 horsepower and offers up to 37 miles of all-electric driving, making it a smart choice for commuters and eco-conscious consumers. The 2.5-liter hybrid engine delivers remarkable efficiency thanks to its regenerative braking. It cranks out a net combined 192 horsepower. 

Inside, there is room for five with plenty of rear-seat legroom. Standard technology such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the Sync 4 infotainment system made staying connected while driving on I-85 or the Montgomery Expressway as easy as starting the engine. 

Is an All-Electric Ford Escape Coming?

There is no news yet about whether Ford will introduce an all-electric version of the Escape. Drivers who want an efficient, compact SUV will have hybrid and plug-in hybrid options for the 2026 model year. Ford says there is enough inventory of these models to last well into 2026. 

Alternatives to the 2026 Escape in Ford's SUV Lineup

Due to emission laws in these states, the 2026 Ford Escape is not available for purchase in New York, California, Oregon, Washington, Vermont, and Massachusetts. That being said, there are plenty of compelling alternatives that you can opt for, no matter your state. 

If you like the size of the Ford Escape but have an adventurous spirit, the Ford Bronco Sport is built on the same platform. It gets power from the same turbo three-cylinder engine with 180 horsepower, but has extra ground clearance, and some off-road extras are available, such as all-terrain tires, recovery hooks, and a twin-clutch differential. 

The Ford Mustang Mach-E is a two-row SUV with room for up to five people that's powered entirely by electricity. It takes inspiration from the iconic Mustang muscle car, but uses batteries instead of gas. The base powertrain delivers 264 horsepower, but the GT and Rally trims bump it to a remarkable 480 horsepower and an impressive 700 pound-feet of torque. 

With the Mustang Mach-E, you get the instant thrust of electric power with a zero to 60 mph time of less than 3.5 seconds, and it can drive up to 320 miles before needing a charge. 

Expected Pricing and Trim Outlook for the Next Generation

The 2026 Ford Escape will start at $31,545. Ford will still offer it in eight different trim levels for its last year in production. The trims and pricing will look like the following:

• Escape Active - $30,350
• Escape Active PHEV - $35,400
• ST-Line - $31,195
• ST-Line Select - $35,015
• ST-Line Elite - $38,935
• Platinum - $37,940

The trim lineup offers something for everyone. The entry-level Active has cloth upholstery, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a power liftgate, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The Active PHEV is equipped with similar features, but adds heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. It also features partial vinyl and cloth upholstery and upgrades the 8-inch touchscreen to a 12.3-inch touchscreen. 

The ST-Line builds on the Active by adding underbody skid plates, a sporty flat-bottomed steering wheel, and roof rails. The ST-Line Select offers more convenience features, such as one-touch power windows, and the stronger EcoBoost 2.0-liter gas engine. 

If you want an Escape loaded with features, the ST-Line Elite and Platinum deliver. These come with a digital instrument panel, navigation, wireless charging, and power-adjustable front seats. 

Stay Informed on Future Ford SUV Models at Stivers Ford of Montgomery

The best way to stay in the know about what's going on with the latest Ford models is to stop by Stivers Ford of Montgomery. Our sales team can fill you in on the details about the 2026 Ford Escape, show you what's new, and get you behind the wheel for a test drive. You can also call us at 888-825-8308. We'd be happy to answer your questions over the phone.

Images by OEM