The writing’s most likely on the wall for the Ford Escape. Reports have been circulating about the crossover’s demise for some time now, signaling that it’s on its way out as the Blue Oval focuses more on segments where it feels it can make a greater impact. In fact, the Escape could meet its production end by 2026 despite its popularity – and its affordability. Since it seems to be so popular among consumers, Ford Authority wants your input on the matter. Should the Escape be discontinued, or is there a case to be made for its continuation?
The fact of the matter is that the Ford Escape has seemingly been on the chopping block since 2022, when Ford CEO Jim Farley indicated that the crossover might soon be canceled. This was seemingly confirmed by Ford’s later announcement that it would be killing off all of its two-row internal combustion engine (ICE) powered crossovers, although the automaker’s trajectory has since changed in regard to ICE versus electric power.
The Escape has soldiered on since. It even underwent a significant midcycle refresh for the 2023 model year, breathing life into the crossover and making it a more formidable competitor in its segment. It was one of Ford’s best-selling models throughout the 2024 calendar year, to boot, moving 146,859 units last year as its sales increased four percent compared to the 2023 calendar year. It outsold even the Ford Bronco Sport and the Ford Maverick, both of which could be considered intra-brand competitors.
However, considering that the Bronco Sport shares the C2 platform with the Escape, it means the crossover could be considered redundant because of the overlap between the two, which are often cross-shopped by buyers in search of an affordable ride. Farley once again reiterated the fact that Ford is focused on discontinuing its “boring” models and clearing its slate for passion projects instead. Moreover, the Lincoln Corsair and Ford Escape – also platform mates – are seemingly set to be replaced by EVs in the near future, hammering yet another nail in the crossover’s coffin.
We’re turning to you, the reader, to find out where you stand on the Ford Escape. Should its plug be pulled, or is it a valuable addition to the Ford lineup? Let us know by voting in the poll below and join the discussion in the comments section.
The plaintiff claimed that transmissions should be covered by a longer warranty.
Lessees will be able to take advantage a bit longer, it seems.
Along with several of its lineup mates.
Amid weak demand in that market.
Though we imagine that all-wheel drive will be offered, too.
It's number 18 of the 40 built in total.
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I'd prefer a PHEV Maverick, but I still like my '22 Escape PHEV despite the engine and battery service bulletins. Fingers crossed. Not putting the PHEV system its platform mates seems like a mistake now that an EV replacement for the Escape appears to be very delayed.
With no small PHEV or EV truck on the horizon, I've got a Telo reservation.
The empty suit in FoMoCo Tower are hell bent to kill their golden goose.
Make a PHEV Bronco sport and do away with the Escape.
Seeing that the Bronco Sport is 4X4 only, yes, the Escape should, and does, appeal to more people. BUT, that being said, Ford also needs something smaller than either and less pricey. This would also relieve downward pricing pressure on both.
Bronco Sport is smaller in the back seat making it tight for families with car seats, has less cargo space, and not everyone needs 4WD. Since the Edge is gone and that sold over 100K a year, that leaves a big whole in sales. Not everyone can step up to an Explorer.
Amen! Bring back the Edge. The best car Ford ever made! Quality built in Canada NOT thrown together in Mexico.
Mine is the 3.5 twin turbo and would buy another if they were still being made. I'm thinking about buying the mid size Lincoln suv which is about the same as my Edge.
Keep the Escape and bring Back the Edge!
The Edge was a great sized two row SUV. I’m on my third lease and not sure where boring owners are to go?
AMEN!
The Ford Escape is truly in a class of its own-It is the only SUV that is not AWD-and the only SUV that has an actual PHEV-it truly needs to stay! Remember tyhe Ford c max compact SUV--What a car! It is in high demand still as a used vehicle!The Ford Escape PHEV will continue to gain market share-it has it all--Price-Features_options and loads of safety features-I personnally see the Escape to continue to carve it own nitch in the industry!
The Escape offers AWD, I have a 2023 Escape Platinum-hybrid AWD, gets 41 mpg after 12,000 miles. Only drawback is all hybrids go into starter mode after few months, the Ford pass will then not work, no interior light go on at night and no remote start. Same on our 21 Eacape hybrid, and also the 2025 that replaced it. Ford has no fix for it , will drop in a larger battery after 24 months, per the ford forum as the fix
Farley is an idiot. Ford should do what Mazda is doing and give their customers more hybrids. Better yet, don't let the government shove EV's down the consumers throats.
The hybrid escape should stay in production. It gets great gas mileage and goes longer distances on a fill-up.
I agree! We had a 2022 Escape Hybrid and loved getting 40 mpg on the highway. Ford should just give it a little makeover and keep it for a few more years.
Hybrids are more popular than ever. Ford should keep the Escape and concentrate on making the Hybrid even better.
Pulling the plug on the Escape is pure stupidity! The vehicle is the perfect and only American car that can compete with all the Asian crap that’s out there ! My 2020 Escape hybrid is perfect for commuting and running around town.