Explorer vs Escape
2026 Ford Explorer® vs. Ford Escape® | Bainbridge, GA
If you’re in the market for the right Ford SUV to keep up with your adventurous spirit, consider the three-row mid-size 2026 Ford Explorer® or the two-row compact 2026 Ford Escape®. Both dynamic models have a lot to offer for your active lifestyle when it comes to refined capability, flexible cargo solutions, cutting-edge technologies, and advanced driver assistance features. Which is the right choice for you and your family? Learn more about each model with this detailed comparison guide prepared by the team at Riverbend Ford.
For a more in-depth overview of each model, refer to our comprehensive Ford Explorer review and our Ford Escape review.
Browse through our Ford Explorer inventory or our Ford Escape inventory to find the model that will let you command the road in style. Schedule a test drive of your preferred model and trim at our dealership in Bainbridge, GA. Our Ford experts are here to answer any questions you may have about either model — call us at (229) 246-0860 or contact us online.
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2026 Ford Explorer vs. Escape Exterior Design
Sculpted lines and bold exterior styling give the 2026 Ford Explorer and 2026 Ford Escape a striking presence that turns heads anywhere the day takes you. Each model offers a range of wheel designs, from the 18-, 20-, 21-inch wheels on the Explorer to 17-, 18-, or 19-inch wheels on the Escape. On both SUVs, available LED lighting, automatic high beams, and fog lamps enhance visibility, while a power liftgate on each adds welcoming convenience when your hands are full. Luminous LED exterior accents and rain-sensing wipers are exclusive to the Ford Explorer for confident driving in varying conditions.
Available shared exterior features include:
- LED fog lamps
- Automatic high-beam headlamps
- LED signature lighting
- Power liftgate
- Power, heated exterior mirrors
- Dual chrome exhaust tips
Available Explorer exterior features include:
- 18-, 20-, 21-in. wheels
- LED taillamps
- Exterior mirrors with LED turn signal indicators, driver’s side auto-dimming, and security approach lamps
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
- All-terrain tires
- Steel under-body protection
- Black-painted roof
- Class III Trailer Tow Package
Available Escape exterior features include:
- 17-, 18-, or 19-in. wheels
- LED reflector headlamps with Autolamp and signature lighting
- Configurable daytime running lamps
- Headlamps with LED light bar
- Unique rear skid plate
- Roof rack cross rails and crossbars
2026 Ford Escape
2026 Ford Explorer
2026 Ford Explorer vs. Escape Interior Design & Technology
Experience refined interior comfort in the 2026 Ford Explorer and 2026 Ford Escape. Unique cloth seat upholstery is standard in either SUV. Available seat upholstery options in the Ford Explorer include cloth, ActiveX®, and leather. In the Ford Escape, choose from vinyl and cloth or ActiveX seat upholstery. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel are available on both models; the Ford Explorer also offers available ventilated front seats and heated second-row seats.
Tri-zone automatic climate control is standard in the Ford Explorer, and dual-zone automatic climate control is standard in the Ford Escape. A fixed glass panel moonroof is available on the Ford Explorer, while a tilting and fully opening panoramic Vista Roof® is available on the Ford Escape.
Staying connected to your digital world is easy with a range of innovative technology features in both the 2026 Ford Explorer and 2026 Ford Escape. Both feature an available 12.3-inch driver information display and a 13.2-inch center touchscreen display. The Ford Explorer boasts the Ford Digital Experience system, and the Ford Escape features the SYNC® 4 infotainment system. A B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® is available in each model, ten or 14 speakers, including a subwoofer, in the Ford Explorer and ten speakers in the Ford Escape.
Available shared interior and technology features include:
- Unique cloth and ActiveX seat upholstery
- Ten-way power driver’s seat
- Heated front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- Remote start system
- Universal garage door opener
- 12.3-in. driver information display
- Six speakers or ten-speaker B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen
- 13.2-in. center touchscreen display
- Wireless Apple Carplay® and Android Auto™
- Navigation capability
- Head-up display
Available Explorer interior and technology features include:
- Multicontour front seats with Active Motion® massage
- Leather seat upholstery
- Eight-way power front passenger’s seat
- Second-row captain’s seats with E-Z Entry and armrests
- PowerFold® third-row seats
- Ventilated front seats
- Heated second-row seats
- Tri-zone automatic temperature control
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Panoramic fixed glass moonroof with power shade
- Ford Digital Experience
- 14-speaker B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen
- Active noise cancellation
Available Escape interior and technology features include:
- Vinyl seat upholstery
- Front sport contour bucket seats
- Six-way power front passenger’s seat
- Dual-zone automatic temperature control
- Panoramic Vista Roof with power shade
- SYNC 4 infotainment system
2026 Ford Explorer vs. Escape Engine Specs & Fuel Economy
Take on your daily commutes and epic road trips on your terms in both the 2026 Ford Explorer and 2026 Ford Escape. The Ford Explorer provides two robust gas engine options, while the Ford Escape expands your choices with four configurations, including two gas, one hybrid, and one plug-in hybrid. When power is your priority, the Ford Explorer delivers up to 400 horsepower and up to 20 highway MPG, along with a 5,000-pound tow rating. The Ford Escape offers an athletic 250 horsepower, an impressive 101 combined MPGe from its plug-in hybrid powertrain, and a 3,500-pound towing capacity.
For off-road ruggedness on those family adventures off the beaten path, the Ford Explorer prevails with its standard Terrain Management System™ and available sport-tuned suspension. Select Explorer trims also feature a TORSEN® limited-slip differential, intelligent four-wheel drive (4WD), and an off-road-tuned suspension.
Compare engine specifications for both models in the accompanying table.
| 2026 Ford Explorer | Model | 2026 Ford Escape |
|---|---|---|
| Two | Engine Options | Four |
| 300 / 400 HP | Horsepower (Standard/Max) | 180 / 250 HP |
| 310 / 415 lb.-ft. | Torque (Standard/Max) | 199 / 280 lb.-ft. |
| Ten-speed automatic | Transmission Options | Eight-speed automatic or eCVT |
| RWD / AWD | Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| 5,000 lbs. | Max. Towing | 3,500 lbs. |
| 18 / 29 | Max. MPG (City/Hwy) | 101 combined MPGe |
2026 Ford Escape
2026 Ford Explorer
2026 Ford Explorer vs. Escape Size & Cargo Space
Both the 2026 Ford Explorer and 2026 Ford Escape offer spacious accommodations tailored to specific needs. The Ford Explorer boasts three spacious rows for up to seven passengers, while the Ford Escape seats five across its two rows. There’s plenty of room to stretch out on lengthier journeys in both models — 43 inches of legroom in the Explorer and 42.4 inches in the Escape. For stowing larger items, the longer Ford Explorer provides 85.8 cubic feet of cargo space with both rear row seats folded down. The Escape provides 65.4 cubic feet of cargo volume with the second row folded down.
Compare size and cargo specifications for both models in the accompanying table.
| 2026 Ford Explorer | Model | 2026 Ford Escape |
|---|---|---|
| 198.7 in. | Exterior Length | 180.1 in. |
| Seven | Passenger Capacity | Five |
| 150.3 cu.-ft. | Passenger Volume | 104 cu.-ft. |
| 40.7 / 40.5 / 38.9 in. | Headroom (Front/Second/Third Row) | 40 / 39.3 in. / N/A |
| 43 / 37.5 / 31.8 in. | Legroom (Front/Second/Third Row) | 42.4 / 40.7 in. / N/A |
| 85.8 / 46 / 16.3 cu.-ft. | Cargo Volume Behind Front/Second/Third Row | 65.4 / 37.5 / N/A |
2026 Ford Explorer vs. Escape Safety Options & Features
Drive confidently in the 2026 Ford Explorer and 2026 Ford Escape, both equipped with a multitude of advanced safety features. The Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+ suite is standard on the Ford Explorer, and the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite is standard on the Ford Escape. Intuitive features like BLIS® (blind spot information system), a lane keeping system, and a rearview camera are standard in either model, while a 360-degree camera and front and rear parking sensors are available in each.
Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go and lane centering are standard in the Explorer and available in the Escape. Exclusive to the Ford Explorer is the BlueCruise hands-free highway driving assistance system.
Available shared safety features include:
- Pre-Collision Assist® with automatic emergency braking
- BLIS with rear cross-traffic braking
- Lane keeping system
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go
- Rearview camera
- 360-degree camera
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Rear parking sensors
- SecuriCode® keyless entry keypad
- Reverse brake assist
- Trailer sway control
Available Escape safety features include:
- Evasive steering assist
- Intersection assist
Available Explorer safety features include:
- BlueCruise hands-free driver assistance system
2026 Ford Explorer vs. Escape FAQs
How do the towing capacities of the 2026 Ford Explorer and 2026 Ford Escape compare?
The 2026 Ford Explorer delivers substantially greater hauling prowess, offering a 5,000-pound towing capacity that is suitable for family campers, boats, and other heavier gear. The 2026 Ford Escape has a 3,500-pound maximum tow rating for lighter-duty hauling of small trailers and everyday utility needs.
How do the technology and safety features of the 2026 Ford Explorer and 2026 Ford Escape compare?
The 2026 Ford Explorer and 2026 Ford Escape boast cutting-edge technology and safety features. Each offers a standard 12.3-inch driver information display and a 13.2-inch center touchscreen display. The Explorer is matched with the Ford Digital Experience and an available 14-speaker B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen, while the Escape is fitted with a SYNC 4 infotainment system and an available 10-speaker B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen.
Both models come equipped with their own configurations of the Ford Co-Pilot360 driver assist suite, each with safety features like Pre-Collision Assist automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Only the Ford Explorer offers the BlueCruise hands-free driver assistance system.
2022 Ford Explorer vs. Escape | Cargo Space, Dimensions, & Performance Options Compared
Looking for an eye-catching compact SUV built to excite? The team at RiverBend Ford has put together this guide comparing two fantastic choices: the 2022 Ford Explorer and 2022 Ford Escape. Both models have head-turning, modern designs with available LED exterior lighting to help illuminate all nighttime drives. Plus, every passenger can stay connected on the go with available next-generation tech features.
Read through our in-depth Ford Explorer review to learn more and peruse our Ford Explorer inventory for your favorite trim. Or, read through our Ford Escape review for details about its key features, and locate your preferred trim in our Ford Escape inventory. To experience both models in person, schedule a test drive, and contact us by phone at (229) 246-0860 or send us a message.
The 2022 Ford Explorer has a starting MSRP of $34,010, and the 2022 Ford Escape starts at $27,025 MSRP.
Ford Explorer vs. Escape Seating Capacity & Cargo Space
No matter how far the journey takes you, the 2022 Ford Explorer and 2022 Ford Escape can transport all your precious cargo with ease. Looking for a larger capacity for the family and all their belongings? When you opt for the Explorer, you receive spacious accommodations for up to seven passengers, third-row seating with available E-Z Entry second-row seats, and a maximum cargo capacity of 87.8 cubic feet.
If you’re in search of a just-as-capable SUV for a smaller group, the two-row Escape can carry up to five passengers and offers 60/40 split-fold-flat sliding seats to make carrying belongings and creating more legroom a sinch. When you need to utilize every inch of space, the Escape offers a maximum 65.4 cubic feet of space.
Ford Explorer vs. Escape Size & Dimensions
Both the 2022 Ford Explorer and 2022 Ford Escape have ample room for each passenger to stretch out and relax. If you prefer a model built to handle everything from baseball equipment to the team’s players, then the three-row Explorer is a great choice. When you need to fit into more compact spaces while enjoying flexible accommodations, opt for the two-row Escape.
|
2022 Ford Explorer |
Model |
2022 Ford Escape |
|
Seven |
Passengers |
Five |
|
152.7 cu.-ft. |
Max. Passenger Volume |
104 cu.-ft. |
|
40.7 in. / 40.5 in. / 38.9 in. |
First- / Second- / Third-Row Headroom |
40 in. / 39.3 in. / - |
|
43 in. / 39 in. / 32.2 in. |
First- / Second- / Third-Row Legroom |
42.4 in. / 40.7 in. / - |
|
61.8 in. / 61.9 in. / 54.6 in. |
First- / Second- / Third-Row Shoulder Room |
57.6 in. / 56 in. / - |
Ford Explorer vs. Escape Performance
Experience breathtaking performance in either the 2022 Ford Explorer and 2022 Ford Escape. Each model offers multiple dynamic engines to choose from, giving you the confidence you need to tackle any road. The Explorer comes standard with rear-wheel drive (RWD) and offers available intelligent four-wheel drive (4WD) with a Terrain Management System™ and seven selectable drive modes — this allows the vehicle to deliver precisely the amount of traction the road conditions demand.
The Escape is equipped with standard front-wheel drive (FWD) and optional AWD with AWD Disconnect that senses and adapts when AWD isn’t needed. Also available on the Escape are five selectable drive modes for various terrain types.
|
2022 Ford Explorer |
|||
|
Engine |
2.3L EcoBoost® I4 |
3.0L EcoBoost V6 |
3.3L hybrid |
|
Horsepower |
300 HP |
400 HP |
318 HP |
|
Torque |
310 lb.-ft. |
415 lb.-ft. |
322 lb.-ft. |
|
Transmission |
Ten-speed automatic |
Ten-speed automatic |
Ten-speed automatic |
|
Drive Type |
RWD / 4WD |
RWD / 4WD |
RWD / 4WD |
|
Max. Towing |
5,300 lbs. |
5,600 lbs. |
5,000 lbs. |
|
2022 Ford Escape |
|||
|
Engine |
1.5L EcoBoost® Ti-VCT I3 |
2.0L EcoBoost turbo I4 |
2.5L iVCT Atkinson-Cycle I4 hybrid/plug-in hybrid |
|
Horsepower |
181 HP |
250 HP |
165 HP |
|
Torque |
190 lb.-ft. |
280 lb.-ft. |
155 lb.-ft. |
|
Transmission |
Eight-speed automatic |
Eight-speed automatic w/ SelectShift® |
Electrically controlled continuously variable (eCVT) |
|
Drive Type |
FWD / AWD |
AWD |
FWD / AWD |
|
Max. Towing |
2,000 lbs. |
3,500 lbs. |
1,500 lbs. |
Ford Explorer vs. Escape Fuel Consumption
No matter where you’re headed, both the 2022 Ford Explorer and 2022 Ford Escape are designed to get you there efficiently. The Explorer can deliver up to 20 city and 28 highway MPG, but if you prefer a highly fuel efficient SUV with all the functionality you need, the hybrid option on the Escape can make up to 44 city and 37 highway MPG.
2026 Ford Explorer & Escape For Sale in Bainbridge, GA
Riverbend Ford is where you’ll find both the Ford Explorer and Ford Escape for sale at our dealership in Bainbridge, GA. View our Ford Explorer inventory or our Ford Escape inventory to discover the truck that aligns with your unique style and needs. Questions? Call us at (229) 246-0860 or message us online.
Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, processing fee of $598 or license charges. Vehicles shown at different locations are not currently in our inventory (Not in Stock) but can be made available to you at our location within a reasonable date from the time of your request, not to exceed one week.