Do Ford Escapes have 3rd row seating?
The Ford Escape does not have a third row; it is a five-passenger, two-row compact SUV.
In this article, we explain why there is no third-row option, how seating is configured in the Escape, and what Ford models provide three rows if you need more seating capacity. We also point to alternatives within Ford’s current lineup for shoppers who require a three-row SUV.
Current seating configuration in the Escape
Before detailing the specifics, here is a concise look at how many people the Escape can carry and how the seats fold to adapt cargo space.
- The Escape uses two rows of seating: front row seats (two) and a second row with three seats, for a total of up to five passengers.
- The second row is typically a 60/40 split-folding bench to balance passenger space and cargo when needed.
- There is no third row on any current Ford Escape model year or configuration.
In short, the Escape remains a five-person, two-row vehicle with flexible cargo options enabled by folding the second-row seat.
Ford models with three rows (alternatives)
If you need genuine three-row seating, Ford offers other models in its SUV lineup that provide that capacity.
- Explorer — a mid-size SUV with a standard or available third row, typically seating seven or eight depending on configuration.
- Expedition — a full-size SUV with three rows and seating for up to eight, plus substantial cargo and towing capability.
These vehicles are designed to accommodate larger families or flexible seating needs, which Escape does not provide.
Conclusion
Bottom line: Do Ford Escapes have a third row? No. They are built as two-row, five-passenger vehicles. If a three-row setup is essential, consider the Explorer or Expedition, which are Ford’s primary three-row options in the current lineup.
Summary
The Ford Escape is a two-row, five-passenger SUV with no third-row option. For buyers requiring three rows, Ford’s Explorer and Expedition are the standard three-row alternatives in the current lineup.
Does the Ford Escape have 3rd row seating?
The three-row Ford Escape will ride on a longer wheelbase and will be longer than the two-row model. It will also feature a more traditional roofline when compared to the two-row Escape. That additional length and roofline will allow the vehicle to accommodate a third row of seats, for a seven-passenger capacity.
Which is better, Ford Explorer or Ford Escape?
The main differences are that the Ford Escape is a more compact, fuel-efficient SUV for five passengers, while the Ford Explorer is a larger, three-row SUV designed for families needing more space and towing capacity. The Explorer generally offers more power and a more premium interior with larger screens and features like massage seats, while the Escape is more agile and budget-friendly.
Ford Escape
- Size: Compact SUV with two rows of seats, accommodating up to five passengers.
- Performance: Offers a range of engines, including efficient hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, a 1.5L EcoBoost, and a more powerful 2.0L EcoBoost.
- Efficiency: Designed for better fuel economy, making it suitable for commuting and city driving.
- Tech: Comes with modern tech like a standard 8-inch touchscreen, SYNC 4, and Ford Co-Pilot360.
- Price: Lower starting price than the Explorer.
Ford Explorer
- Size: Midsize SUV with three rows of seating, accommodating up to seven passengers.
- Performance: Provides more power with available larger engines, including a turbocharged V6, making it better for towing and hauling.
- Cargo: Offers significantly more cargo and passenger volume.
- Tech: Features a larger available 12.3-inch touchscreen and more premium options, such as massage front seats.
- Price: Higher starting price due to its larger size and premium features.
Which one is right for you?
- Choose the Escape if you need a smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicle for everyday driving or have a smaller family.
- Choose the Explorer if you have a larger family, need to transport more people, or require greater towing and cargo capacity.
Why is Ford discontinuing Escape?
Ford is discontinuing the Escape to make room for new, more affordable electric vehicles (EVs), such as a new $30,000 electric pickup truck. Production is ending because the Louisville Assembly Plant is being retooled to produce these new EVs, a move Ford is calling its "Model T Moment" to simplify and streamline EV manufacturing. The decision is also influenced by a company-wide shift in strategy towards electrification and away from certain gasoline-powered models.
- Focus on EVs: The discontinuation is part of a larger strategic shift at Ford to focus on building electric vehicles and away from gasoline-powered models, particularly two-row crossovers.
- Factory retooling: The Louisville Assembly Plant, where the Escape is built, will be retooled to produce a new family of EVs, starting with a mid-size electric pickup truck expected to launch around 2027.
- Cost and strategy: By phasing out the Escape and Lincoln Corsair, Ford can cut complexity and costs, freeing up resources for its electric division.
- Market factors: The Escape has also faced falling sales and tough competition in a crowded SUV market, with the Bronco Sport taking some of its market share.
Which Ford models have 3rd row seating?
Ford's main 3-row vehicles are the full-size Expedition SUV and the mid-size Explorer SUV. The Expedition can seat up to eight passengers and offers the larger Expedition MAX model for even more cargo space, while the Explorer seats up to seven and is a classic choice for families needing a third row.
Ford Expedition
- Description: A full-size SUV designed for larger families or groups, with spacious seating and cargo room.
- Seating: Can accommodate up to eight passengers.
- Special Features: Power-reclining third-row seats and second-row "tip-and-slide" seats for easy access.
- Variants: Available in the regular wheelbase and the extended wheelbase Expedition MAX.
Ford Explorer
- Description: A versatile mid-size SUV that is a popular option for those needing a third row.
- Seating: Seats up to seven passengers.
- Special Features: Offers flexibility with an optional power fold third row and the choice of second-row captain's chairs or a bench seat.
- Availability: Available with a high-strength frame and multiple safety features.
