The Ford Escape managed to stick around in dealer showrooms for one more year, beating out the fateful rumors of 2025. But now that we've hit the '26 model year, this familiar crossover SUV will take its official final lap so Ford can pivot toward the EV market. Let's see how the last new Escape stacks up against the Chevy Equinox, so you know which one deserves a spot in your garage.
Key Takeaways
- This is your very last chance to buy a new Escape.
- Local state emissions regulations will not allow you to buy an Escape if you live in six states.
- The Escape's final model has few changes, while Chevy makes minor tweaks to its recently updated Equinox.
Will Regional Rules Impact Your Chance to Buy an Escape?
Whether you can find a new Escape at a dealership depends entirely on where you live. Because of strict state-level environmental mandates, Ford did not send new models to dealerships in California, New York, Washington, Oregon, Massachusetts, or Vermont. If you live in one of these areas and want a brand-new Escape, you'll either have to buy one across state lines or track down a 2025 model.
Comparing 2026 Updates for the Escape and Equinox
The only actual change to the Escape is that you can no longer get the standard hybrid with front-wheel drive. If you want the hybrid powertrain now, it automatically pairs with Ford's intelligent all-wheel-drive system. Other than that, it is the last year, so no new changes are forthcoming.
Chevy, meanwhile, adjusts packaging details on the Equinox. The LT trim's Convenience II option group no longer bundles in roof rails (though you can still get them if you pick the Midnight Edition package or the standalone sunroof package). Chevy also made the drive mode selector dial a standard feature on every trim and added a Polar White Tricoat to the rugged Activ and sporty RS models.
Engine and Powertrains in the Escape and Equinox
For a compact crossover, the Escape offers one of the most flexible powertrain lineups in the entire segment. You can choose between a 181-hp 1.5-liter turbo, a 192-hp hybrid, a 210-hp plug-in hybrid, or a 250-hp 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, which packs a serious punch, giving the Escape a speed advantage over most of its class competitors. Depending on which powertrain you choose, power travels through an eight-speed automatic to either the front wheels or all four.
The Equinox takes a much simpler approach--it features only a 175-horsepower four-cylinder. Front-wheel-drive configurations use a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while moving up to all-wheel drive uses a traditional eight-speed automatic. Sure, it handles the daily commute just fine, but buyers usually like having options, which gives the Escape a greater advantage. FWD or AWD are available.
Powertrain Features
| 2026 Ford Escape |
2026 Chevy Equinox |
| Turbo gas, hybrid, PHEV, 2.0L EcoBoost engines choices |
Four-cylinder engine |
| 8-speed automatic |
CVT; 8-speed |
| FWD; AWD |
FWD; AWD |
Which Compact SUV Delivers the Best Value?
It's rare to find a compact SUV that gives you this many engine choices. This model year represents your absolute last opportunity to drive a brand-new gas or hybrid Escape off the lot. Give our Jarret Scott sales team a call today to see why this longtime favorite is going out on a high note!
