Is The Ford Escape Being Discontinued?

Ford announced that it will cease production of the Ford Escape and the similarly sized Lincoln Corsair after the 2026 model year, when it closes the plant that builds the two SUVs, according to reports from MotorTrend and Car and Driver. The automaker will retool the Louisville, KY, plant to install the new Universal EV Production System when it begins building affordable electric vehicles, including a previously announced midsize pickup, as well as other electric vehicles, including at least two new SUVs. Learn more about the Ford Escape SUV discontinuation with this report from the team at Weber Ford.

Ford Escape SUV Discontinuation

Though it competes in the popular compact SUV segment, the Ford Escape SUV discontinuation doesn’t mean the automaker is abandoning drivers from St. Louis to Alton who want an affordable vehicle. The compact Ford Maverick pickup is priced below the Escape, while the off-road-focused compact Ford Bronco Sport SUV is only slightly higher. Additionally, every Bronco Sport model features four-wheel drive as standard, unlike the Ford Escape, which offers it as an option on certain trim levels.

The Maverick pickup is available with two of the Escape SUV’s powertrains, including the available 2.0L EcoBoost® I4 and the available 2.5L I4 hybrid. At the same time, the Bronco Sport is available with the Escape SUV’s standard 1.5L EcoBoost® I3 and the available 2.0L EcoBoost® I4.

Ford Escape Production Continuation Through 2026

Though the days of this popular compact SUV are coming to an end, Ford Escape production will continue through the 2026 model year. From the base Active® trim to the sporty ST-Line models to the luxurious Platinum™, there are six well-equipped 2026 Ford Escape trim levels for drivers in the Collinsville area to choose from. Explore the powertrain options for each trim level below:

• Active®: 1.5L EcoBoost® I3, 8-speed auto, FWD or optional AWD
• ST-Line: 1.5L EcoBoost® I3, 8-speed auto, FWD or optional AWD
• ST-Line Select: 2.0L EcoBoost® I4, 8-speed auto, AWD or 2.5L iVCT Atkinson Cycle I4 hybrid, eCVT, AWD
• ST-Line Elite: 2.0L EcoBoost® I4, 8-speed auto, AWD or 2.5L iVCT Atkinson Cycle I4 hybrid, eCVT, AWD
• Platinum™: 2.0L EcoBoost® I4, 8-speed auto, AWD or 2.5L iVCT Atkinson Cycle I4 hybrid, eCVT, AWD
• Plug-in Hybrid: 2.5L iVCT Atkinson Cycle I4 plug-in hybrid, eCVT, FWD

Test-Drive The 2026 Ford Escape At Weber Ford

With Ford Escape production continuing through 2026, it’s not too late to purchase this popular compact SUV. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and test drive of a new Ford Escape at Weber Ford! Our team will review each trim level, including powertrain options and features, to ensure you find the best configuration for your Edwardsville lifestyle. Save time when you apply for financing, value your trade-in, and browse our new vehicle specials online.