Understanding the Different Trim Levels of the 2026 Ford Escape: Which Should You Choose?

The 2026 Ford Escape is available in several trim levels designed to fit various lifestyles and budgets in Brewster, New York. From the budget-friendly Active trim to the sporty ST-Line Elite, Ford has created something for nearly every type of driver. At Brewster Ford, we can help you decide which option best matches your daily driving needs, preferences, and budget when you buy a Ford Escape.

2026 Ford Escape Active: Entry-Level Adventure

The Escape lineup starts with the Active at $30,350. At this price, it’s a strong choice for families watching their spending. This trim delivers solid performance thanks to its turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine generating 180 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque.

Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, an 8-inch touch screen, and a six-speaker audio system. Ford Co-Pilot360 comes standard with pre-collision assist, blind-spot warnings, and lane-keep assist. An eight-speed automatic transmission powers the front wheels, while dual-zone climate control keeps everyone comfortable.

First-time SUV buyers appreciate what the Ford Escape Active trim offers. If you want additional features without moving up a trim, the Active Premium Package adds extra options. This trim works well if you’re seeking reliable transport without luxury upgrades.

2026 Ford Escape ST-Line: Sport-Inspired Style

The ST-Line adds sporty looks for about $800 more than the Active, with a starting price of $31,195. This trim offers visual flair and better handling without full-performance mode. Some standout exterior features include 18-inch Rock Metallic wheels, a black mesh grille, and a unique rear skid plate.

Inside the cabin, vinyl and cloth sport seats with red stitching give the ST-Line a more stylish appearance than the Active trim. An eight-way power driver’s seat, heated front seats, a power liftgate, and remote start add more convenience. The SYNC 4 infotainment system handles entertainment, while cruise control, blind-spot warnings, and lane-keeping assist provide more safety. Arrange a test-drive to experience these safety features firsthand.

2026 Ford Escape ST-Line Select: Enhanced Comfort Meets Sport

The ST-Line Select starts at $35,015, about $3,800 more than the basic ST-Line. This extra cost provides a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, plus standard all-wheel drive, providing traction on slippery roads.

Ford also offers a hybrid option, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with an electric motor, generating 192 horsepower with impressive fuel efficiency. This hybrid reaches 42 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, making it ideal if you’re looking to reduce fuel costs. Additional features include heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, LED fog lights, and one-touch power windows.

This trim suits buyers wanting more power and standard all-wheel drive. Overall, the ST-Line Select strikes a balance between a sporty appearance and extra comfort.

2026 Ford Escape Platinum: Premium Luxury Experience

With a starting price of $37,940, the Platinum trim trades sporty styling for premium comforts and advanced technology. You’ll notice the impressive 13.2-inch center touch screen and Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ with adaptive cruise control and SOS Post-Crash Alert.

Inside the cabin, ActiveX seating with mini perforations and upgraded materials create a more refined cabin feel. The optional Bang & Olufsen sound system and wireless charging pad can make your drives more entertaining and convenient. Exterior enhancements include 19-inch Ebony-painted machined-face wheels, LED fog lamps, and subtle exterior touches that complete the upscale look.

2026 Ford Escape ST-Line Elite: Top-Tier Performance Package

The ST-Line Elite tops the range in the sporty trims with a starting price of $38,935, making it the most expensive option available. It has 19-inch machined-face Ebony-painted wheels and high-technology parking aids, including a surround-view camera system, front and rear parking sensors, and rear auto-braking that make navigating tight spots less stressful. This trim pairs a sport-tuned suspension with athletic styling cues while retaining the efficient hybrid powertrain.

Drivers seeking the sportiest Escape gravitate toward the ST-Line Elite for its upgrades and cutting-edge technology. The complete camera and parking assistance systems appeal to tech-focused buyers. Although it costs slightly more, it delivers the full package of performance, technology, and refinement. Use our payment calculator to assess whether an Escape ST-Line Elite fits your budget.

Interior Features and Technology Comparison

Interior features and technology vary noticeably across the Ford Escape lineup. The Active trim starts with a basic screen and audio setup. The higher trims have the SYNC 4 system with larger screens of up to 13.2 inches, plus wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Seating comfort improves as you move up, starting with manual adjustments and progressing to power seats with heating and higher-quality materials. Dual-zone climate control is standard throughout, with heated steering wheels in select models. Seating materials go from basic cloth to sporty upholstery in the ST-Lines and ActiveX in the Platinum.

Cargo space varies based on your trim choice. The Active and ST-Line trims provide 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 65.4 when folded. The ST-Line Select, Platinum, and ST-Line Elite offer 34.4 cubic feet with the seats up and 60.8 when folded. All versions seat five passengers and provide 104 cubic feet of passenger space.

Find Your Perfect 2026 Ford Escape at Brewster Ford

The 2026 Ford Escape lineup offers choices to fit your driving style, family requirements, and budget. Whether you want sporty style, fuel efficiency, advanced technology, or premium interior features, there’s an Escape for you.
Ready to experience it firsthand? Contact Brewster Ford today to schedule a test-drive in any trim you choose. Our team knows the Brewster driving conditions and can help you select the right mix of features to match your budget and lifestyle.

Images from ford.com

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