2026 Ford Escape Performance

May 1st, 2026 by

2026 Ford Escape Parked Outdoors
 

2026 Ford Escape Performance & Capability Highlights

  • Engine Options: Standard 180-hp 1.5L EcoBoost® or an available 250-hp 2.0L EcoBoost® engine. Efficient Hybrid and PHEV variants are also available.
  • Fuel Economy: Up to an EPA-estimated 27 city / 34 highway / 30 combined mpg* on standard gas configurations.
  • Maximum Towing Capacity: Tows up to 2,000 pounds with the 1.5L engine or up to 3,500 pounds** with the 2.0L EcoBoost® engine and Class II Trailer Tow Package.
  • Safety Technology: Standard Ford Co-Pilot360® with AdvanceTrac® and Roll Stability Control™ for superior handling.

 

Find Your Performance Match at Your Ford Dealer in Indianola, IA

The Ford Escape is available in numerous versatile trim levels and features several engine options, allowing drivers in Indianola and the surrounding areas to decide what’s ideal for their lifestyle. If you are interested in learning more about what this popular Ford model can do on roads in Des Moines and beyond, our comprehensive performance guide is here to help! Learn about the Ford Escape engine options, mpg ratings, towing capabilities, and advanced performance features with DeYarman Ford Indianola today. Feel free to get started from the comfort of home by getting pre-qualified online before visiting us.

 

 

What Engine Does the Ford Escape Have in 2026?

There are two primary gas-powered Ford Escape engine options, each of which offers impressive specs tailored for modern drivers. Check out what you need to know about these highly responsive EcoBoost® powertrains:

1.5L EcoBoost® Engine with Auto Start-Stop Technology

  • Standard on Escape Active® and ST-Line models
  • Smooth-shifting 8-speed Automatic Transmission
  • 180 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
  • 199 lb-ft of torque @ 3,000 rpm

2.0L EcoBoost® Engine with Auto Start-Stop Technology

  • Standard on ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite, and Escape® Platinum™
  • 8-speed Automatic Transmission with SelectShift®
  • 250 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
  • 280 lb-ft of torque @ 3,000 rpm

2026 Ford Escape Fuel Economy: How Fuel-Efficient Is the Escape?

The Ford Escape mpg ratings help you conserve fuel funds while driving in Norwalk or anywhere else. You’ll notice that the Ford Escape fuel economy varies slightly by your choice of trim level and drivetrain selection:

  • Active® FWD: 27 city / 34 highway / 30 combined mpg*
  • Active® AWD: 26 city / 32 highway / 28 combined mpg*
  • ST-Line FWD: 27 city / 34 highway / 30 combined mpg*
  • ST-Line AWD: 26 city / 32 highway / 28 combined mpg*
  • ST-Line Select AWD (2.0L Gas): 23 city / 31 highway / 26 combined mpg*
  • ST-Line Select AWD (2.5L Hybrid): 42 city / 36 highway / 39 combined mpg*
  • ST-Line Elite AWD (2.0L Gas): 23 city / 31 highway / 26 combined mpg*
  • ST-Line Elite AWD (2.5L Hybrid): 42 city / 36 highway / 39 combined mpg*
  • Platinum™ AWD (2.0L Gas): 23 city / 31 highway / 26 combined mpg*
  • Platinum™ AWD (2.5L Hybrid): 42 city / 36 highway / 39 combined mpg*

2026 Ford Escape Towing Capacity By Powertrain

How much can the Ford Escape haul? It depends on which engine powers your vehicle. Whether you are hauling a pair of jet skis or a small utility trailer for a weekend getaway, check out the Ford Escape towing capacity per engine below:

  • 2.0L EcoBoost® AWD (Requires Class II Trailer Tow Package): 3,500 pounds**
  • 1.5L EcoBoost® FWD/AWD: 2,000 pounds**
  • 2.5L Hybrid / Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV): 1,500 pounds**

Advanced 2026 Ford Escape Performance Features

The Ford Escape mpg ratings and towing capabilities are applause-worthy, but so are this vehicle’s built-in engineering features! They work behind the scenes to give you maximum traction and stability during changing seasonal conditions across Iowa:

  • AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control™)
  • Power 4-wheel disc with Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
  • Electric power-assisted steering (EPAS)
  • Curve Control and Post-Collision Braking
  • Independent MacPherson front suspension, strut-type with stabilizer bar, and twin-tube hydraulic gas-pressurized shocks
  • Independent double lateral link semi-trailing arms rear suspension with stabilizer bar and progressive-rate springs

Explore the 2026 Ford Escape Capabilities at DeYarman Ford Indianola Today

Are you ready to see how the Ford Escape engine in your preferred trim performs on the open road? Do you have additional questions about the Ford Escape towing capacity or hybrid options? Map out your financial plan ahead of time using our online payment calculator, then call 515-454-1315 or contact us online today to schedule your test drive. We look forward to streamlining your car-buying experience and helping you save with our rotating new vehicle specials. Stop by DeYarman Ford Indianola today to test drive the 2026 Ford Escape and see how our dedicated team makes finding your dream SUV easier than ever!

*Disclaimer: Actual mileage will vary.

**Disclaimer: Maximum towing capabilities are for properly equipped vehicles with required equipment and a 150-lb. driver and passenger and vary based on cargo, vehicle configuration, accessories, option content, and number of passengers. For additional information, see your Ford dealer.

 

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