Ford is preparing to launch the Escape (Kuga) with three main powertrain options for the 2026 model year. The range ranges from the base 1.5-liter EcoBoost to the powerful 2.0-liter EcoBoost and the all-wheel drive (AWD) Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) option. Ford aims to simplify customer selection by clearly matching engine and trim packages.
The 2026 Ford Escape offers three different engine options for the new model year, balancing power and efficiency. These options are directly linked to trim levels, creating a clear hierarchy within the model range.
EcoBoost Engine Options and Equipment Matchings
The starting point of the model range, 1.5 liter EcoBoost It consists of a three-cylinder turbo engine. This unit, 180 horsepower (hp) and produces 270 Nm of torque and is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
- This basic engine is only Exhaust Active ve ST Line is offered as standard in equipment packages.
For those looking for higher performance, upper equipment levels come into play. 2.0 liter EcoBoost four-cylinder turbo engine, 250 hp and provides a noticeable increase in power by producing 380 Nm of torque.
- This powerful engine, ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite and the highest level Platinum It comes standard in all equipment packages and works with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
AWD PHEV: Rechargeable Power
For customers who want efficiency and all-wheel drive together Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) This layout, which uses an atmospheric 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, is paired with an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT) and delivers a total 210 hp provides system power.
- The configuration of the hybrid system is simplified; all-wheel drive (AWD) only is presented with.
- The 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine is available alongside the standard PHEV layout. ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite and Platinum can also be chosen as an option in packages.
With this clear distinction, Ford simplifies the selection process by offering customers an efficient engine in entry-level trim levels such as Active and ST-Line, and a powerful engine in more luxurious and performance-oriented packages.
