We've heard the rumors for a while, and it looks like they were right--the Escape is heading for retirement. While it made it through the 2025 model year, 2026 is officially the end of the line. Ford shifts its focus away from this long-running SUV this year to put more energy into its next wave of EVs. If you're trying to decide whether to grab a 2025 or wait for the 2026 Ford Escape lineup, here is the scoop on the final two years.
Key Takeaways
- 2026 is the last year of production before a new EV takes the Escape's spot in the lineup.
- Stricter emissions rules mean you won't actually find the 2026 model in six states. 2025 models are still available.
- As a result of its exit from the market, Ford hasn't made any major updates to the Escape in its final two years.
Because of new emissions rules, the 2026 Escape isn't available nationwide. If you're shopping in California, New York, Massachusetts, Vermont, Oregon, or Washington, you won't find it on the lot. If you live in one of those spots but really want one of these final models, you'll have to look at out-of-state dealerships. However, Ford kept the 2025 model available with standard gear, so don't expect a specialized version of the 2026 to show up in those restricted markets.
As Ford wound down production, it didn't put money into redesigns or new trims. The biggest change this year is for the hybrid--you can no longer get it with front-wheel drive, as all hybrids are now strictly all-wheel drive.
It's a small detail, but a notable one for a powertrain that's been around since 2019. The hybrid survived the big 2023 refresh that added the ST-Line look, and now it's taking up a larger chunk of the final remaining builds. Since the end was already in sight, 2025 was also a carryover year with no real changes.
Model Year Changes
| 2026 Ford Escape |
2025 Ford Escape |
| All-wheel drive is standard on hybrid models |
Hybrid models offered with FWD |
| Hybrid engines are available in more trims |
No new updates; carried over from prior model year |
| There are no changes as the Escape ends production |
Hybrid availability unchanged from 2024 |
For its final year, the Escape still gives you four ways to go: two gas engines, a standard hybrid, and a plug-in hybrid. The regular hybrid delivers 192 horsepower, comes with all-wheel drive, and can get up to 39 mpg. If you opt for the plug-in hybrid, you get 210 horsepower and the ability to handle short trips on battery power alone.
If you prefer a traditional gas engine, there's a 180-hp turbo three-cylinder paired with an 8-speed automatic. And if you want more speed, that's available through a 250-hp turbo four-cylinder. It comes standard with all-wheel drive.
This Is Your Last Chance to Grab an Escape
The 2026 Escape still offers the same versatility that made it a favorite for so long. This is your final shot to get one, and in certain parts of the country, they're already gone. As production stops, finding one is only going to get tougher. If you've been thinking about an Escape, now is the time to act--reach out to Alan Jay Ford in Sebring today to experience the Alan Jay way!