2026 Ford Escape Trims Overview – First Look

March 2nd, 2026 by

2026 Ford Escape Trims Overview

The 2026 Ford Escape lineup is built for drivers who want real flexibility in a compact SUV. Ford offers four powertrain choices across the lineup, including EcoBoost,
hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options, so you can prioritize efficiency, everyday performance, or a mix of both depending on how you drive.
If you want a deeper look at the full model, start at our 2026 Ford Escape research hub and explore the pages that break down design, interior comfort, and technology.

Escape is also designed to adapt when your plans change. Ford highlights an interior with a 60/40 split fold second row that can slide back for up to 5.9 extra inches,
helping you balance passenger comfort and cargo space on the fly. When you fold seats down, Ford lists up to 65.4 cu ft of available space behind the first row on EcoBoost models,
making the Escape easy to live with whether you are packing for a trip or handling daily errands.

  • Trims to know: Active, ST-Line, ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite, Plug-in Hybrid, and Platinum
  • Powertrain variety: four available options across the 2026 Escape lineup
  • Cabin flexibility: sliding second row and fold-flat utility designed around real life needs
  • Tech focus: available 13.2-inch center display with SYNC 4 features depending on trim

What Every 2026 Escape Trim Has in Common

Every Escape trim is built around the same core idea: make daily driving easier while giving you options to tailor the experience. Ford emphasizes adaptability with a sliding second row,
a compact footprint that is easy to maneuver, and a lineup built around multiple powertrain choices. That makes it easier to shop by personality and priorities,
instead of feeling like you have to compromise on the basics.

Towing can also be part of the Escape conversation. Ford lists towing capability up to 3,500 lbs when equipped with the available Class II Trailer Tow Package and the available 2.0L EcoBoost engine.
Other configurations vary, so the best approach is to match the powertrain and equipment to how you plan to use your Escape.
If you want a trim-by-trim comparison, visit our Escape trims page.

Escape Active

Escape Active is a practical starting point for shoppers who want a compact SUV that keeps things straightforward. Ford lists Active with a 1.5L EcoBoost I-3 with Auto Start-Stop Technology,
plus available all-wheel drive if you want extra traction support for changing conditions. This trim is a strong fit for drivers who want a simple daily driver setup that still leaves room to add capability.

Ford also calls out everyday features that matter when you use your Escape for commuting and errands. That includes BLIS with Cross-Traffic Alert,
along with a cabin layout designed to stay functional for passengers and cargo. For a broader look at how Escape is positioned, start at our Escape research hub.

  • Everyday power: 1.5L EcoBoost I-3 with Auto Start-Stop Technology
  • Traction option: available all-wheel drive
  • Awareness support: BLIS with Cross-Traffic Alert

Escape ST-Line

Escape ST-Line is built for drivers who want a more athletic look and a more style-forward vibe without leaving the compact SUV comfort zone.
Ford lists ST-Line with a 1.5L EcoBoost engine and available all-wheel drive, giving you flexibility based on how you configure your vehicle.
The trim is positioned as a blend of daily driving usability and sport-inspired design details.

Ford highlights ST-Line visual and comfort touches like an 8-way power driver seat with red stitching, plus 18-inch Rock Metallic-painted aluminum wheels.
If styling is a key part of how you shop, you can also dive deeper on our Escape exterior page.

  • Sport styling direction: ST-Line appearance and interior accents
  • Wheel highlight: 18-inch Rock Metallic-painted aluminum wheels
  • Traction option: available all-wheel drive

Escape ST-Line Select

Escape ST-Line Select is a great fit if you like the ST-Line look but want more comfort features and standard traction capability.
Ford lists ST-Line Select with standard all-wheel drive and gives you a choice between a 2.0L EcoBoost or hybrid engine depending on configuration.
That combination makes this trim feel ready for daily driving in a wide range of seasons and road conditions.

Ford also calls out comfort and convenience upgrades that can matter on cold mornings and busy days, including heated front-row seats and a heated steering wheel.
A power liftgate is included as well, which is helpful when you are loading up gear, groceries, or road trip bags.
For more cabin-focused details, visit our Escape interior page.

  • Standard traction: all-wheel drive
  • Comfort upgrades: heated front-row seats and heated steering wheel
  • Convenience: power liftgate

Escape ST-Line Elite

Escape ST-Line Elite is the trim for drivers who want the sport-inspired identity but also want a bigger technology step up.
Ford lists ST-Line Elite with standard all-wheel drive and offers a 2.0L EcoBoost or hybrid engine depending on configuration.
The result is a trim that leans into confidence and feature content while keeping the Escape easy to live with.

Ford highlights a 13.2-inch center display on ST-Line Elite, and it also lists Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ with Adaptive Cruise Control.
If technology is a major priority, you can explore the broader feature story on our Escape technology page.

  • Display upgrade: 13.2-inch center display
  • Driver-assist highlight: Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ with Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Standard traction: all-wheel drive

Escape Plug-in Hybrid

Escape Plug-in Hybrid is designed for drivers who want the freedom to drive all electric, all gas, or a combination of both.
Ford lists this model with a 2.5L iVCT Atkinson Cycle I-4 hybrid engine and standard front-wheel drive.
It is a strong choice if your routine includes shorter trips and you want the flexibility of plug-in capability without giving up the ability to travel longer distances.

Ford also highlights a maximum EPA-estimated all-electric range of 37 miles and notes the vehicle comes with a mobile cord so you can charge using a regular 120V outlet.
When you do not feel like plugging in, Ford notes it can run like a regular hybrid.
Ford also lists a 13.2-inch center display and includes Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ content that includes Adaptive Cruise Control with stop-and-go, Lane Centering, and Predictive Speed Assist.

  • All-electric capability: maximum EPA-estimated all-electric range of 37 miles
  • Charging flexibility: mobile cord for a regular 120V outlet
  • Efficiency rating: 101 EPA-estimated MPGe combined

Escape Platinum

Escape Platinum is the trim for drivers who want the most premium feature mix in the 2026 lineup.
Ford lists Platinum with standard all-wheel drive and offers a 2.0L EcoBoost or hybrid engine depending on configuration,
giving you powertrain flexibility without stepping away from an upscale trim direction.

Ford highlights a 13.2-inch center display on Platinum and lists Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ with Adaptive Cruise Control.
If you are comparing the top trims, Platinum is a smart place to focus because it brings the big-screen tech and driver-assist content that many shoppers prioritize on a daily basis.
To compare the full lineup in one place, visit our Escape trims page.

  • Standard traction: all-wheel drive
  • Tech highlight: 13.2-inch center display
  • Driver-assist highlight: Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ with Adaptive Cruise Control

Explore More 2026 Ford Escape Research

Picking the right Escape trim gets easier when you match your priorities to the way each model is equipped. If you want a straightforward daily driver, start with Active.
If you want sport-inspired style, look at ST-Line. If you want standard all-wheel drive and comfort upgrades, ST-Line Select is worth a closer look.
If you want the big-screen experience and driver-assist highlights, ST-Line Elite and Platinum bring those features into focus.
If plug-in driving is the goal, Escape Plug-in Hybrid is the trim built around that flexibility.

  • Compare trims and decide what matters most for your daily drive.
  • Review exterior, interior, technology, and trims pages for deeper details.
  • Contact our team to explore current Escape inventory and availability.

*Features and availability vary by trim and configuration. Towing requires proper equipment and setup. Confirm details with your Sid Dillon team.

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