2026 Escape vs. 2026 Bronco Sport Comparison
The Escape has been a popular model for Ford since its introduction, and with its recent discontinuation, fans of the compact SUV are casting their eyes to the Bronco Sport, which is both similarly priced and similarly sized. In fact, the two are built on the same platform, and while there are differences, there might be more similarities than you’d think. Let’s take a look.
Escape VS Bronco Sport - Highlights
| 2026 Escape | VS | 2026 Bronco Sport |
|---|---|---|
| $30,350 | Starting MSRP* | $31,845 |
| 1.5L EcoBoost® | Standard Engine | 1.5L EcoBoost® |
| 2.0L EcoBoost® 2.5L Ivct Atkinson-Cycle I-4 Hybrid Engine Plug-in Hybrid 2.5L Ivct Atkinson-Cycle I-4 Engine |
Available Drivetrains | 2.0L EcoBoost® |
| Optional | AWD / 4WD | Standard |
| 3,500 pounds | Max Towing Capacity | 2,700 pounds |
As you can see, the Escape and Bronco Sport are very close in price. In fact, if you add AWD to the Escape, the price difference shrinks to just $95. The two vehicles come with the same standard engine, and the bigger 2.0-liter power plant is also available in both. The Escape does offer a higher maximum towing capacity, but it should be pointed out that the towing capacity with the standard 1.5-liter engine is 2,000 pounds for the Escape and 2,200 pounds for the Bronco. For many people, the experience of driving one or other of these two vehicles will be largely the same, even the interior layout is very similar. But there are still some differences in what is possible to do with each vehicle, and that brings us to our next section.
Escape VS Bronco Sport - Equipment
The Bronco Sport comes better equipped than the Escape in a few specific areas. Heated seats are standard in the Bronco Sport, but not the Escape, and the 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen in the Bronco Sport is an option in the Escape. But it’s optional equipment where we see differences. We’ve already touched on the hybrid options that are available for the Escape and not the Bronco Sport, so let’s talk about the Bronco Sport offers that the Escape doesn’t.
The main thing is off-road ability, starting with the 4x4 system. This comes standard in the Bronco Sport, along with 5 G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Terrain) modes for different kinds of conditions. This is also upgradable to a system with a twin-clutch rear drive unit, which also comes with two additional drive modes. Trail Control™ with Trail 1-Pedal Drive is available, too, and HOSS off-road suspension comes standard, with HOSS 2.0 suspension available. Multiple off-road packages are offered, and although all-terrain tires aren’t standard, they are available as either part of a package or as a standalone option on any trim or configuration of the Bronco Sport. None of this was ever available for the Escape, and this is a major factor in what sets the two apart.
Whether you’re looking to get your hands on the last model year of the Ford Escape, or you’re looking to explore the terrain features of the Ford Bronco Sport, you’ve come to the right place. Preferred Ford of Grand Haven is standing by to help you make the decision that best fits your lifestyle.