2026 Ford Escape

The Escape lineup includes several trims that each bring a different exterior personality and styling approach. The Active trim offers a clean and practical design with body-color accents and a simple, modern look suited for everyday driving. The ST-Line trims introduce a more athletic appearance with gloss-black exterior elements, a sportier grille design, and available larger wheel options that give the SUV a more aggressive stance. The Platinum trim leans into a more refined and premium exterior with chrome detailing, upgraded lighting elements, and more upscale design touches, while the Plug-In Hybrid model shares similar styling cues with efficiency-focused branding and unique badging that distinguishes it from traditional gas models.

The Escape offers multiple powertrain options designed to match different driving priorities. The standard 1.5L EcoBoost engine delivers around 180 horsepower, making it a strong and efficient option for daily commuting and light travel. The available 2.0L EcoBoost engine increases performance to around 250 horsepower, offering quicker acceleration and stronger capability for highway driving. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid options further expand efficiency, with the hybrid system combining gas and electric power for improved fuel economy and smoother low-speed driving, while the plug-in hybrid allows for short all-electric driving range ideal for local trips around Heath and nearby communities.

Performance in the Escape is centered around efficiency, comfort, and confidence in everyday driving conditions. The compact size makes it easy to maneuver through city streets, parking lots, and suburban roads throughout Licking County, while available all-wheel drive improves traction during Ohio winters and wet road conditions. When properly equipped, the Escape can tow up to 3,500 pounds, making it suitable for small trailers, lightweight recreational gear, or weekend hauling needs. Its suspension is tuned for comfort, helping smooth out rough roads while maintaining stable handling at highway speeds.

Inside, the Escape is designed as a two-row compact SUV with seating for up to five passengers. The cabin features a modern layout with available digital displays, a large touchscreen infotainment system, and smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Depending on trim level, drivers can access upgraded materials such as soft-touch surfaces, available leather seating, heated front seats, and enhanced interior styling details. Cargo space is flexible thanks to sliding rear seats in some configurations, allowing drivers to prioritize either passenger legroom or additional storage for groceries, luggage, or daily gear.

The Escape includes a strong suite of standard and available safety technologies designed to support driver confidence in a variety of conditions. Features such as pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, lane-keeping system, and adaptive cruise control help improve awareness during highway and city driving. Available features like a 360-degree camera system and enhanced parking assistance make tight spaces easier to navigate, which is especially helpful for drivers in more congested or suburban areas around Heath. These systems work together to provide added peace of mind for everyday commuting and family travel.