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2026 Ford Escape: The Perfect SUV for Late Summer Road Trip Prep

2026 Ford Escape

If you're getting ready for a late summer road trip and need an SUV that can keep up with your plans, you should consider the 2026 Ford Escape. With six available trims, four powertrain options, and a cabin designed for real life, it checks a lot of boxes for drivers in Shallotte, NC who want comfort, capability, and technology in one package.


Powertrain Options for Every Kind of Driver

The 2026 Escape gives you flexibility when it comes to engines. Choose from a 1.5L EcoBoost® engine with 180 hp, a 2.0L EcoBoost® engine with 250 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, a 2.5L hybrid with 192 total system hp, or a plug-in hybrid with 210 total system hp and an EPA-estimated all-electric range of 37 miles. No matter if you want to stretch your fuel budget or tap into extra towing power - up to 3,500 lbs with the 2.0L EcoBoost® and available Class II Trailer Tow Package - the 2026 Ford Escape has a setup for you.


Trims Built for Different Lifestyles

The lineup starts with the Escape Active, which brings everyday practicality and available all-wheel drive. The ST-Line and ST-Line Select add sport-styled touches like a flat-bottom steering wheel, red accent stitching, and heated front-row seats. Moving up, the ST-Line Elite includes a standard 13.2-in touchscreen, Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ with Adaptive Cruise Control, and a wireless charging pad. The Escape Platinum rounds things out with ActiveX-trimmed seats, an LED light bar, chrome beltline molding, and a 10-way power driver seat.


Interior Space and Comfort

Planning a late summer road trip means thinking carefully about cargo and passenger comfort, and the 2026 Ford Escape delivers on both. With up to 65.4 cu ft of cargo space behind the first row, while the 60/40 split-fold second-row seats slide to add up to 5.9 extra inches of legroom. Dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control comes standard across the lineup, so everyone can stay comfortable no matter how long the drive is. An available panoramic Vista Roof with power shade brings in natural light and adds an open, airy feel.

Technology That Keeps You Connected

The 2026 Ford Escape comes standard with SYNC 4, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capable of connecting up to 10 devices. Higher trims step up to a 13.2-in touchscreen with connected navigation, which delivers real-time traffic, parking information, and hazard alerts. An available B&O® Sound System by Bang and Olufsen® with 10 speakers - including a subwoofer - makes every mile more enjoyable. For drivers doing summer road trip prep, the FordPass app also lets you check fuel levels, locate your vehicle, and schedule service remotely.


Safety and Driver-Assist Features

Every 2026 Ford Escape comes equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360® Technology, which includes Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, a Lane-Keeping System, and BLIS Blind Spot Information System with Rear Cross-Traffic Braking. Upper trims add Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering, making long highway stretches much more manageable. An available 360-degree camera and rear parking sensors round out the safety suite for added confidence in tighter situations.


Visit Us in Shallotte, NC

The 2026 Ford Escape offers something for nearly every type of driver, so, if you're prioritizing fuel efficiency, performance, tech, or interior comfort. Drivers throughout Shallotte, NC can explore the full lineup and find the right trim to fit their lifestyle. Stop by and see the team at Jones Ford, browse available inventory, and let our team help you get behind the wheel of a 2026 Ford Escape before summer gets into full swing.

 


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