Ford Escape Buyer's Guide: Performance, Technology & Everyday Value

The Ford Escape is a compact SUV built for drivers in Granite City who want flexibility without stepping up to a larger vehicle. Multiple trim levels and powertrain choices — including gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options — let buyers match the Escape to how they actually drive, whether that means a daily commute around St. Louis or weekend trips out toward Collinsville. Standard technology and driver-assistance features carry across the lineup, so entry-level trims aren’t missing the basics. Buyers cross-shopping compact SUVs typically compare the Escape on interior space, fuel efficiency, and everyday usability rather than outright performance. Trim configuration, interior space, and towing capability are the details worth comparing before choosing a specific setup.

Key Highlights

  • Multiple powertrain options — gas, traditional hybrid, and plug-in hybrid — give buyers a choice between fuel efficiency and electrified range depending on typical driving distance.
  • Six trim levels, from the well-equipped Active to the range-topping Platinum, span a wide range of budgets and feature sets.
  • Standard SYNC® 4 infotainment with wireless Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™ keeps phone connectivity built in starting with the base trim.
  • Standard BLIS® blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic braking comes on every trim, not just the higher-priced configurations.

Explore the Ford Escape

2026 Ford Escape Exterior

Trim Levels

Six trim levels — Active, ST-Line, ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite, Plug-in Hybrid, and Platinum — give buyers a range of technology, comfort, and powertrain combinations to choose from. Compare what each configuration adds so you can match a trim to your budget and driving needs.

Compare Escape Trim Levels


2026 Ford Escape Front Seats

Interior

The Escape’s cabin seats five and is built around straightforward, everyday comfort rather than gimmicks — push-button start, multiple cup holders, and a center console with practical storage. Entertainment and connectivity come standard too, with SYNC® 4, wireless Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi® hotspot through the FordPass® App included on the base trim.


2026 Ford Escape Towing a Boat

Towing Capability

Towing capacity varies by engine, with the higher-output engine option enabling meaningfully more pulling capacity when paired with the available trailer tow package. AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™ is standard across the lineup, helping keep the vehicle composed whether you’re hauling a trailer or just carrying a full load of passengers and cargo.


Why Ford Escape at Weber Ford

Buyers in Granite City and out toward Alton work with our team throughout the ownership process, not just at the time of purchase. Financing options, service scheduling, and trade-in evaluations are all handled locally, so questions about a specific Escape configuration don’t require chasing down separate departments. Call 618-452-5400 to talk through which trim and powertrain combination fits your driving needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of vehicle is the Ford Escape?

The Ford Escape is a compact SUV, sized between smaller crossovers and larger three-row SUVs.

Does the Ford Escape come in multiple trim levels?

Yes, six trim levels are available, giving buyers a range of features and price points to choose from.

Is the Ford Escape available as a hybrid?

Yes, both a traditional hybrid and a plug-in hybrid powertrain are offered alongside the standard gas engine.

Is all-wheel drive available on the Ford Escape?

Yes, all-wheel drive is available on most trims, though it isn’t standard across the entire lineup.

Does the Ford Escape include standard driver-assistance features?

Yes, Ford Co-Pilot360® Technology comes standard on every trim, including blind-spot monitoring.

Ready to see the Ford Escape in person near Granite City? Our team at Weber Ford can help you compare trims and powertrains side by side.

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3465 Progress Parkway, Granite City, IL, 62040
Weber Ford 38.733511, -090.143386.