2026 Ford Escape

The 2020-present Ford Escape is the fourth generation of the compact crossover, built on Ford's C2 platform with a lower, wider, and more rounded body than its predecessor. Powertrains include a 1.5-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder, a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder, a conventional hybrid, and a plug-in hybrid. Transmissions are an eight-speed automatic on gasoline models and a continuously variable unit on hybrids, with front-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive available on most configurations.

This generation restored much of the interior space lost in the previous redesign and introduced a sliding second-row seat. The hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants are the most significant additions, with the plug-in offering meaningful electric-only range for commuting. A facelift for 2023 revised the front-end styling and updated the infotainment system.

For used buyers, the fourth-generation Escape offers a wide powertrain choice, and the hybrid is the standout for running costs. The 1.5-liter three-cylinder is adequate but works hard when loaded. Ford issued recalls on certain 1.5-liter engines concerning cracked injectors and associated fuel or oil leaks, which is the highest-value item to verify against a specific vehicle's history. The hybrid system is shared with other Ford products and has a solid record. Later model years benefit from the updated infotainment.