Whats the price of a brand new Ford Escape?

The price of a brand-new Ford Escape starts at about $28,000 MSRP; most buyers will pay in the low-to-mid $30,000s, with higher trims and hybrid versions pushing toward the $40,000 range.

To understand what that means in practice, this article reviews current pricing, what drives cost across different trims, and how shoppers can navigate options, incentives, and fees to get the best deal.

Current pricing landscape

Prices vary by trim, drivetrain, options, and region. The ranges below reflect typical U.S. MSRPs (before destination charges and taxes) for the 2025 model year; actual dealer prices can differ due to incentives, inventory, and regional market conditions.

• Escape S: from about $28,000


• Escape SE: from about $31,000


• Escape SEL: from about $34,000


• Escape Titanium: from about $38,000


• Escape Hybrid: starts around $30,000, with higher trims aligning with gasoline equivalents


• Escape Hybrid SEL/Titanium: typically in the mid-$30,000s to low-$40,000s


• Escape Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): starts around $37,000, with options pushing higher

Prices vary by market and model year, and destination charges (often around $1,500–$1,800) apply on top of these MSRPs. Incentives, dealer pricing, and financing offers can also affect the final out-the-door cost.

What affects the price

Several factors influence the final sticker price of a new Ford Escape. Understanding these can help buyers compare quotes accurately and avoid surprises at the dealership.

Key price drivers

Destination charges, optional packages (such as leather seating, upgraded audio, or advanced driver-assistance features), all-wheel drive, and hybrid or plug-in powertrains can add thousands to the base price. Regional incentives or promotions and dealer fees can also impact the final amount.

Shopers should consider the overall cost of ownership, not just the sticker price. This includes fuel economy, maintenance plans, insurance, and potential tax credits or incentives for hybrid or plug-in models where applicable.

How to get the best price

Being strategic about timing, negotiation, and where you buy can help you land a better deal on a new Escape.

• Compare quotes from multiple dealers and request a formal price in writing.


• Look for manufacturer incentives, regional promotions, and seasonal sales events.


• Ask about destination charges, dealer fees, and any add-ons that can be negotiated or waived.


• Consider timing around model-year changes, end-of-month targets, and inventory clearances to maximize leverage.

Concluding advice: focus on the out-the-door price (including destination charges, taxes, and fees) rather than solely the monthly payment, and separate the negotiation of trade-ins or financing from the new-car price.

Summary

In short, a new Ford Escape starts in the high $20,000s, with most buyers paying from the low to mid-$30,000s, and higher trims, hybrids, and plug-in variants climbing toward or beyond $40,000. Prices vary by trim, drivetrain, packages, and location, so check current MSRPs on Ford’s official site and compare quotes from several dealers to get the best deal.

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 escapes to stay away from?

You should avoid Ford Escapes from the 2008, 2013, 2014, and 2016 model years due to significant problems with transmissions, power steering, and electrical systems. Other model years to approach with caution include 2017 for brake and engine issues, 2009 for engine and handling problems, and the 2021-2024 models for potential electrical, fuel system, and other widespread recalls. 
Model years to avoid

• 2008: This model year had more complaints than any other in its generation, with major issues related to its transmission, power steering, and engine. 
• 2009: Continued many of the problems from the previous year, including engine and handling complaints. 
• 2013: Had 16 recalls from the NHTSA, including problems with its electronic systems, and significant mechanical issues like leaks and faulty catalytic converters. 
• 2014: Suffered from severe transmission problems, from minor issues to complete shutdowns. It also had power steering failures, recalls, and other mechanical problems. 
• 2016: Faced a recurrence of the transmission issues from the 2014 model, along with power steering failures and noisy, hard-to-press brakes. 
• 2017: Continued to have the loud brake issues from the previous year and added engine problems where the engine would stumble or stutter. 

Other years to be cautious about

• 2015-2019: While not as problematic as the years above, these models were part of the same generation with a high number of complaints. The EcoBoost engines in some of these years had head gasket issues. 
• 2021-2024: These newer models have had a high number of recalls, including issues with the fuel system, electrical system, and doors. Some 2024 models were also predicted to be less reliable than average. 

Recommendations

• For the most reliable models, look for the 2016 Ford Escape or the newer 2020-2022 models, though the newer models may have higher price tags. 
• If buying a used Escape, get a professional inspection before purchasing, and check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to see if it falls under any recalls. 

What is the average cost of a new Ford Escape?

A new Ford Escape starts at approximately $30,350 for the 2026 model year, with prices increasing based on the trim level. Higher-end trims like the ST-Line Elite can range from around $37,000 to over $40,000, and the Platinum hybrid is listed around $38,610. Prices can also be affected by destination fees and optional packages. 
Example prices by model year and trim

• 2026 Ford Escape (Base): Starts at approximately $30,350. 
• 2025 Ford Escape Active: Starts at about $31,010. 
• 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line: Starts at about $33,690 (for a hybrid version) or $30,490 (for the gas-only version). 
• 2025 Ford Escape Platinum Hybrid: Starts at around $38,610. 
• 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line Elite: Starts at approximately $40,130. 

Factors that influence the final price

• Trim Level: Different trims offer varying features, with higher trims like the Platinum and ST-Line Elite having higher starting prices. 
• Engine and Powertrain: Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid models generally cost more than their gasoline counterparts. 
• Optional Packages: Features such as upgraded technology, premium audio systems, or sunroofs are often part of optional packages that will increase the final price. 
• Destination Fee: The manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) often excludes a destination fee, which will be added to the final purchase price. 

How many miles does a Ford Escape usually last?

A Ford Escape usually lasts between 150,000 and 200,000 miles, or about 12 to 15 years, with proper maintenance. Some models, especially newer ones or well-maintained hybrids, can last longer, with some owners reporting over 250,000 miles and even some examples exceeding 500,000 miles. Key factors influencing its lifespan include regular oil changes, timely repairs, and driving habits. 
Factors that affect a Ford Escape's lifespan

• Maintenance: Consistent servicing, such as regular oil changes and transmission fluid checks, is crucial for a longer lifespan. 
• Driving habits: A vehicle driven primarily on highways tends to last longer than one that is frequently in stop-and-go city traffic. 
• Climate: Areas with harsh winters and road salt can lead to rust and corrosion, impacting longevity, especially for older models. 
• Model year: Newer models tend to have better durability due to technological advancements, while older models may be more prone to certain issues. 
• Common issues: Some common issues reported in certain model years include transmission problems around 80,000-100,000 miles, suspension wear, and rust. 

Tips to maximize your Ford Escape's life

• Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule. 
• Address any unusual sounds or performance issues promptly, such as those from the engine or suspension. 
• In rust-prone areas, wash the vehicle frequently, especially during winter, to protect the body from salt.