2026 Ford Escape Engine Differences

The 2026 Ford Escape has a selection of four unique engines, each ready to offer specialized performance ideal for commutes or road trips. There are two traditional gas engines that combine respectable power with practical efficiency and versatility. The 1.5L EcoBoost® inline three-cylinder (I3) provides 180 horsepower and 199 pound-feet of torque, with up to 34 highway MPG. Find sporty performance with the 2.0L EcoBoost inline four-cylinder (I4), which offers 250 horsepower, 280 pound-feet of torque, and up to 31 highway MPG. Both of the gas engines are equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 1.5L EcoBoost I3 is available with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), while the 2.0L EcoBoost I4 is only available with AWD.

If you’re interested in next-level fuel economy, the Escape has two hybrid powertrains ready to help you travel farther. The 2.5L hybrid I4 engine offers combined gas and electric power for 192 horsepower and 155 pound-feet of torque, with an impressive 42 city MPG. You can go a step further and choose the 2.5L plug-in hybrid I4 engine, which allows you to rely more on the battery. The plug-in engine produces 210 horsepower, 155 pound-feet of torque, and can achieve up to 101 MPGe. The hybrid engines are equipped with electronically controlled continuously variable transmissions (eCVT), and the 2.5L hybrid I4 engine has AWD standard, while the plug-in hybrid engine is exclusively paired with FWD.

View engine specifications in the following table.

2026 Ford Escape Model Availability

Depending on which 2026 Ford Escape model you choose, you’ll have different engine options to choose from. The Escape Active™ and ST-Line trims are equipped with the 1.5L EcoBoost I3 engine, while the ST-Line Select, Platinum®, and ST-Line Elite trims either have the 2.0L EcoBoost I4 or 2.5L hybrid I4 engines. The Plug-in Hybrid uniquely has the 2.5L plug-in hybrid I4 engine.

Engine availability by trim includes:

• Active
  • 1.5L EcoBoost I3
• ST-Line
  • 1.5L EcoBoost I3
• ST-Line Select
  • 2.0L EcoBoost I4
  • 2.5L hybrid I4
• Plug-in Hybrid
  • 2.5L plug-in hybrid I4
• Platinum
  • 2.0L EcoBoost I4
  • 2.5L hybrid I4
• ST-Line Elite
  • 2.0L EcoBoost I4
  • 2.5L hybrid I4

2026 Ford Escape How Much Can a Ford Escape Tow?

The 2026 Ford Escape can handle light-duty hauling and small trailers with its capable engines. You’ll be able to tow up to 1,500 pounds with either the 2.5L hybrid I4 or 2.5L plug-in hybrid I4 engines. To maximize your capabilities, consider the 1.5L EcoBoost I3 engine, which can tow up to 2,000 pounds, or the 2.0L EcoBoost I4 engine, which achieves the maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. In order to utilize this towing power, you’ll need the Class II Trailer Tow Package.

View towing specifications in the following table.

2026 Ford Escape FAQs

Do I need any special package or equipment to reach the maximum towing capacity on my 2026 Ford Escape?

In order to tow, you need the Class II Trailer Tow Package, which is available on the ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite, Platinum, and Plug-in Hybrid trims.

How do the hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions of the 2026 Ford Escape compare in terms of towing and everyday use?

The 2026 Ford Escape hybrids can tow up to 1,500 pounds and achieve up to 101 combined MPGe, while the gas engines can tow up to 3,500 pounds and have up to 34 highway MPG.

Learn More About the 2026 Ford Escape

If you’re eager to see what else the new Ford Escape has to offer, you’re welcome to check out our other resources. See exterior colors and general specifications with our Escape review, or get a detailed breakdown of each model through our Escape trims guide.

Should you have any questions, you’re welcome to contact us online or over the phone at (913) 837-4311.