# Ford Escape specs and mpg by year

- **Latest year:** 2026
- **MPG (combined):** 26-40
- **Drive:** 4WD, AWD, FWD
- **Years covered:** 2015-2026

## Quick answer

The 2026 Ford Escape is a small SUV rated at 26-40 mpg combined. Engines: 2.5L 4-cyl plug-in hybrid; 1.5L 3-cyl turbo; 2.0L 4-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid.

## Every 2026 Ford Escape version

| Version | Engine | Drive | Transmission | City/Hwy | Combined | 240V charge | Fuel cost / year | CO2 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Escape FWD PHEV | 2.5L 4-cyl plug-in hybrid | FWD | CVT | 42/37 | 40 mpg | 3.2 h | $1,700 | 222 g/mi |
| Escape AWD HEV | 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid | 4WD | CVT | 42/36 | 39 mpg | -- | $1,700 | 225 g/mi |
| Escape FWD | 1.5L 3-cyl turbo | FWD | Automatic | 27/34 | 30 mpg | -- | $2,250 | 298 g/mi |
| Escape AWD | 1.5L 3-cyl turbo | AWD | Automatic | 26/32 | 28 mpg | -- | $2,400 | 317 g/mi |
| Escape AWD | 2.0L 4-cyl turbo | AWD | Automatic | 23/31 | 26 mpg | -- | $2,600 | 342 g/mi |

Each row is a version the EPA tested. Fuel cost assumes 15,000 miles a year (55% city) at national average prices; CO2 is tailpipe emissions.

## Ford Escape specs by year

| Year | Engines | Transmission | Drive | MPG (combined) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | 2.5L 4-cyl plug-in hybrid; 1.5L 3-cyl turbo; 2.0L 4-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid | CVT, Automatic | 4WD, AWD, FWD | 26-40 |
| 2025 | 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid; 1.5L 3-cyl turbo; 2.0L 4-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl plug-in hybrid | CVT, Automatic | 4WD, AWD, FWD | 26-40 |
| 2024 | 1.5L 3-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid; 2.0L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic, CVT | 4WD, AWD, FWD | 26-39 |
| 2023 | 1.5L 3-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid; 2.0L 4-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl plug-in hybrid | Automatic, CVT | 4WD, AWD, FWD | 26-40 |
| 2022 | 1.5L 3-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid; 2.0L 4-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl plug-in hybrid | Automatic, CVT | 4WD, AWD, FWD | 26-41 |
| 2021 | 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid; 1.5L 3-cyl turbo; 2.0L 4-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl plug-in hybrid | CVT, Automatic | 4WD, AWD, FWD | 26-41 |
| 2020 | 1.5L 3-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid; 2.0L 4-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl plug-in hybrid | Automatic, CVT | 4WD, AWD, FWD | 26-41 |
| 2019 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.0L 4-cyl turbo; 1.5L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 23-26 |
| 2018 | 1.5L 4-cyl turbo; 2.0L 4-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 23-26 |
| 2017 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 1.5L 4-cyl turbo; 2.0L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 23-26 |
| 2016 | 1.6L 4-cyl turbo; 2.0L 4-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 23-26 |
| 2015 | 1.6L 4-cyl turbo; 2.0L 4-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 23-26 |

EPA combined ratings. MPGe is the EPA efficiency measure for electric cars. Ranges cover every engine and drivetrain EPA tested for that year.

## How has the Escape changed over the years?

- **2025:** added 2.5L 4-cyl plug-in hybrid.
- **2024:** dropped 2.5L 4-cyl plug-in hybrid.
- **2023:** combined mpg went from 26-41 to 26-40.
- **2020:** added 1.5L 3-cyl turbo, 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid and 2.5L 4-cyl plug-in hybrid; dropped 2.5L 4-cyl and 1.5L 4-cyl turbo; 4WD became available.
- **2017:** added 1.5L 4-cyl turbo; dropped 1.6L 4-cyl turbo.

## What does it cost to run a Escape?

The EPA puts the 2026 Ford Escape's fuel cost at **$1,700-$2,600 a year**, against about $2,216 for other current small SUVs: about average. Over five years at 15,000 miles a year that is about $10,750 in fuel.

## Escape vs rivals

| Model | Powertrains | Fuel economy | Fuel cost / year |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [Toyota RAV4](/vehicles/toyota-rav4) | Hybrid | 38-43 mpg | $1,550-$1,750 |
| [Kia Sportage](/vehicles/kia-sportage) | Gas, Hybrid, Plug-in hybrid | 24-42 mpg | $1,600-$2,800 |
| [Toyota Corolla Cross](/vehicles/toyota-corolla-cross) | Gas, Hybrid | 30-42 mpg | $1,600-$2,250 |
| [Honda CR-V](/vehicles/honda-cr-v) | Gas, Hybrid, Hydrogen | 29-40 mpg | $1,700-$2,300 |
| [Lexus NX](/vehicles/lexus-nx) | Gas, Hybrid | 24-40 mpg | $2,050-$3,400 |
| [Hyundai Tucson](/vehicles/hyundai-tucson) | Gas, Hybrid, Plug-in hybrid | 26-38 mpg | $1,750-$2,600 |
| [Mazda CX-50](/vehicles/mazda-cx-50) | Gas, Hybrid | 25-38 mpg | $1,750-$2,700 |
| [Kia Sorento](/vehicles/kia-sorento) | Gas, Hybrid, Plug-in hybrid | 23-37 mpg | $1,800-$2,900 |

Other current small SUVs from other makes, most efficient first.

## Ford Escape problems owners report most

| System (NHTSA category) | Complaints |
| --- | --- |
| Engine | 3905 |
| Power Train | 1802 |
| Engine And Engine Cooling | 1077 |
| Structure | 995 |
| Electrical System | 882 |
| Back Over Prevention | 512 |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 409 |
| Fuel System | 294 |

From 10,274 complaints filed with NHTSA for 2015-2026 models. Most-complained-about model year: **2017**.

## Guides for common Ford Escape problems

- **Engine** (3,905 complaints): [Why is my car idling rough](/symptoms/rough-idle) - [Why is my engine knocking](/symptoms/engine-knocking-noise) - [Why is my car leaking oil](/symptoms/car-leaking-oil) - [engine replacement cost](/cost/engine-replacement) - [timing chain replacement cost](/cost/timing-chain-replacement) - [valve cover gasket replacement cost](/cost/valve-cover-gasket-replacement)
- **Transmission and drivetrain** (1,802 complaints): [Why is my transmission slipping](/symptoms/transmission-slipping) - [Why won't my car go into gear](/symptoms/car-wont-go-into-gear) - [Why does my car jerk when I accelerate](/symptoms/car-jerks-when-accelerating) - [transmission replacement cost](/cost/transmission-replacement) - [transmission fluid change cost](/cost/transmission-fluid-change) - [clutch replacement cost](/cost/clutch-replacement)
- **Engine cooling** (1,077 complaints): [Why is my car overheating](/symptoms/car-overheating) - [Why is my car leaking coolant](/symptoms/car-leaking-coolant) - [Why does my car smell sweet](/symptoms/sweet-smell-from-car) - [head gasket replacement cost](/cost/head-gasket-replacement) - [water pump replacement cost](/cost/water-pump-replacement) - [radiator replacement cost](/cost/radiator-replacement)
- **Electrical** (882 complaints): [Why does my car battery keep dying](/symptoms/car-battery-keeps-dying) - [Why are my headlights flickering](/symptoms/headlights-flickering) - [Why won't my car start](/symptoms/car-wont-start) - [alternator replacement cost](/cost/alternator-replacement) - [car battery replacement cost](/cost/car-battery-replacement) - [starter replacement cost](/cost/starter-replacement)

## Ford Escape warning lights

- [Escape: Check engine light](/warning-lights/check-engine/ford-escape): 2245 complaints
- [Escape: Coolant temperature warning light](/warning-lights/coolant-temperature/ford-escape): 1520 complaints
- [Escape: Power steering warning light](/warning-lights/power-steering/ford-escape): 178 complaints
- [Escape: Brake warning light](/warning-lights/brake/ford-escape): 59 complaints
- [Escape: Traction control light](/warning-lights/traction-control/ford-escape): 57 complaints
- [Escape: Tire pressure (TPMS) light](/warning-lights/tire-pressure/ford-escape): 36 complaints
- [Escape: Airbag (SRS) warning light](/warning-lights/airbag/ford-escape): 27 complaints
- [Escape: Battery (charging system) warning light](/warning-lights/battery/ford-escape): 27 complaints
- [Escape: ABS warning light](/warning-lights/abs/ford-escape): 23 complaints
- [Escape: Oil pressure warning light](/warning-lights/oil-pressure/ford-escape): 19 complaints

## Ford Escape recalls (59)

| Campaign | Model years | Component | Reported |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [26V374000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V374000) | 2017 | Visibility: Power Window Devices And Controls | 2026-06-09 |
| [26V301000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V301000) | 2026 | Power Train: Automatic Transmission | 2026-05-13 |
| [26V122000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V122000) | 2025 | Engine And Engine Cooling: Exhaust System | 2026-03-04 |
| [26V123000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V123000) | 2020-2022 | Back Over Prevention: Software | 2026-03-04 |
| [26V117000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V117000) | 2020-2022 | Visibility: Windshield Wiper/Washer | 2026-03-03 |
| [26V091000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V091000) | 2022-2026 | Electrical System: Propulsion System | 2026-02-18 |
| [26V011000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V011000) | 2015-2019 | Equipment: Electrical | 2026-01-16 |
| [25V862000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V862000) | 2025-2026 | Seat Belts: Rear/Other | 2025-12-12 |
| [25V829000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V829000) | 2020-2025 | Structure: Body | 2025-12-02 |
| [25V789000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V789000) | 2020-2024 | Electrical System: Propulsion System | 2025-11-14 |
| [25V787000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V787000) | 2025 | Electronic Stability Control (esc) | 2025-11-14 |
| [25V695000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V695000) | 2015-2016 | Back Over Prevention:  Sensing System | 2025-10-14 |
| [25V693000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V693000) | 2020 | Service Brakes, Hydraulic: Foundation Components | 2025-10-11 |
| [25V685000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V685000) | 2020-2022 | Equipment: Electrical | 2025-10-10 |
| [25V467000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V467000) | 2020-2022 | Fuel System, Gasoline: Fuel Injection System | 2025-07-11 |
| [25V442000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V442000) | 2020-2022 | Back Over Prevention: Software | 2025-06-27 |
| [25V372000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V372000) | 2023-2025 | Engine | 2025-06-04 |
| [25V343000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V343000) | 2023-2025 | Electrical System | 2025-05-23 |
| [25V345000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V345000) | 2020-2023 | Engine | 2025-05-23 |
| [25V315000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V315000) | 2023-2024 | Back Over Prevention: Software | 2025-05-09 |
| [25V161000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V161000) | 2025 | Back Over Prevention:  Sensing System | 2025-03-14 |
| [25V165000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V165000) | 2020-2022 | Fuel System, Gasoline: Fuel Injection System | 2025-03-14 |
| [25V133000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V133000) | 2022 | Power Train: Automatic Transmission | 2025-03-01 |
| [25V049000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V049000) | 2025 | Electrical System:  Instrument Cluster/Panel | 2025-02-01 |
| [24V954000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=24V954000) | 2020-2024 | Electrical System: Propulsion System | 2024-12-20 |

Showing the 25 most recent of 59. Recall repairs are free at any Ford dealer. Check your VIN at [nhtsa.gov/recalls](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). Data as of 2026-11-04.

## Frequently asked questions

### What mpg does the 2026 Ford Escape get?

The 2026 Ford Escape is EPA-rated at 26-40 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain. Real-world mileage varies with speed, climate and load.

### What engine does the 2026 Ford Escape have?

The 2026 Ford Escape comes with: 2.5L 4-cyl plug-in hybrid; 1.5L 3-cyl turbo; 2.0L 4-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid. It uses cvt, automatic transmissions and is offered with 4WD, AWD and FWD.

### Is there a hybrid Ford Escape?

Yes. The Ford Escape has been offered as a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid in some model years; the table above shows which.

### Which Ford Escape year gets the best gas mileage?

In the EPA data, the 2022 Ford Escape has the highest combined rating, up to 41 mpg. Ratings for the same model can change between years when engines or test procedures change.

### How much does it cost to fuel a 2026 Ford Escape for a year?

About $1,700-$2,600 a year, using the EPA's assumptions of 15,000 miles (55% city, 45% highway) at national average fuel prices. Your cost depends on your local prices, mileage and driving style.

### What is the city and highway mpg of the 2026 Ford Escape?

The most efficient 2026 version, the Escape FWD PHEV, is rated 42 mpg city and 37 mpg highway (40 combined). Other engines and drivetrains are rated lower; the versions table above lists each one.

### How much CO2 does the 2026 Ford Escape emit?

EPA rates its tailpipe CO2 at 222-342 grams per mile depending on version. Lower is better; the cleanest gas cars sit under 250 g/mi and electric cars have none at the tailpipe.

### Does the 2026 Ford Escape come with all-wheel drive?

Yes. The 2026 Ford Escape is offered with 4WD, AWD and FWD. All- or four-wheel drive usually costs 1-3 mpg compared with the two-wheel-drive version of the same engine, as the versions table shows.

### Is the Ford Escape cheap to run compared with other small SUVs?

About average: its EPA annual fuel cost of $1,700-$2,600 compares with about $2,216 for other current small SUV models. Fuel is only part of running costs; insurance, tires and repairs also differ.

### How many recalls does the Ford Escape have?

NHTSA lists 59 recalls for 2015-2026 Ford Escape models as of 2026-11-04, the latest reported 2026-06-09 (26V374000). Recall work is free; enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see which apply to your car.

### What is the most common problem with the Ford Escape?

In NHTSA owner complaints the most-reported category is engine, followed by power train. The 2017 model year has the most complaints (2701), partly because complaint counts follow sales volume.

## Sources

- [fueleconomy.gov (US DOE and EPA)](https://www.fueleconomy.gov/)
- [NHTSA: Vehicle safety complaints and recalls (api.nhtsa.gov)](https://www.nhtsa.gov/nhtsa-datasets-and-apis)

## All Ford SUVs

- [Ford Bronco](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-bronco)
- [Ford Bronco Sport](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-bronco-sport)
- [Ford Mustang Mach-E](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-mustang-mach-e)
- [Ford Expedition](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-expedition)
- [Ford Explorer](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-explorer)

## More Ford models

- [Ford F-150](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-f-150)
- [Ford Maverick](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-maverick)
- [Ford Mustang](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-mustang)
- [Ford Ranger](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-ranger)
- [Ford EcoSport](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-ecosport): discontinued
- [Ford Edge](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-edge): discontinued
- [Ford F-150 Lightning](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-f-150-lightning): discontinued
- [Ford GT](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-gt): discontinued

## Other small SUVs

- [Genesis GV60](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/genesis-gv60)
- [Genesis GV70](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/genesis-gv70)
- [GMC Terrain](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/gmc-terrain)
- [Honda CR-V](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/honda-cr-v)
- [Honda Passport](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/honda-passport)
- [Hyundai Ioniq 5](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/hyundai-ioniq-5)
- [Hyundai Kona](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/hyundai-kona)

## Compared with

- [Acura MDX](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/acura-mdx)
- [Acura RDX](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/acura-rdx)
- [Alfa Romeo Stelvio](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/alfa-romeo-stelvio)
- [Audi Q3](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/audi-q3)
- [Audi Q5](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/audi-q5)
- [Audi SQ5](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/audi-sq5)
- [BMW X1](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/bmw-x1)
- [BMW X3](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/bmw-x3)
- [Buick Encore](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/buick-encore)
- [Buick Envision](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/buick-envision)

## Car care

- [How long do tires last?](https://diagxcar.com/how-long/tires)
- [How often to change oil](https://diagxcar.com/how-often/change-oil)
- [Tire size calculator](https://diagxcar.com/tools/tire-size-calculator)

---

Source page: https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-escape
Updated: 2026-11-03
General information, not a substitute for a qualified mechanic.