The Ford Escape continues to deliver a spacious, well-appointed interior that balances comfort, practicality, and refinement. With five-passenger seating and versatile cargo configurations, the Escape provides the flexibility needed for daily commutes, family adventures, and everything in between. Understanding the interior dimensions and materials across different trim levels helps you select the Escape that best matches your lifestyle needs.

Interior Space for Passengers

Front Row Comfort

The Ford Escape provides generous front-row accommodations. Front passengers enjoy up to 1,077 mm of legroom, depending on the configuration. This ample space ensures comfortable seating for drivers and passengers of all heights. The front headroom measures 1,016 mm, allowing even taller occupants to sit comfortably without feeling cramped.

Front shoulder room spans 1,463 mm, providing excellent lateral space for two adults. The front hip room measures 1,402 mm, ensuring comfort during extended drives. This generous front-row space creates a welcoming environment for daily driving and long-distance travel.

Second Row Space

The rear bench seat accommodates three passengers with respectable comfort. Rear legroom measures 1,035 mm in gasoline models, providing adequate space for adult passengers. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid models offer 989 mm of rear legroom due to battery packaging considerations.

Rear headroom sits at 998 mm, allowing most passengers to sit upright comfortably. The rear shoulder room measures 1,422 mm, while rear hip room spans 1,354 mm. These dimensions create a rear seating area suitable for adults on shorter trips and children on longer journeys.

The rear seats feature slide and recline functions, giving you flexibility to prioritize either passenger comfort or cargo space based on your needs. This adjustability proves valuable when balancing people and cargo requirements.

Cargo Space Configurations

Gasoline Model Cargo Capacity

Models equipped with the 1.5-litre or 2.0-litre gasoline engines offer impressive cargo versatility. With all seats in place, these models provide 1,062 litres of cargo space behind the second row. This volume accommodates groceries, sports equipment, and everyday cargo with ease.

When you fold the rear seats flat, cargo capacity expands dramatically to 1,852 litres. This maximum configuration transforms the Escape into a capable cargo hauler for furniture, camping gear, or moving-day essentials. The fold-flat rear seats create a level loading floor for easier cargo management.

Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid Cargo Space

Hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants sacrifice some cargo volume to accommodate their battery systems. With the rear seats in use, these models offer 974 litres of cargo space. While slightly lower than gasoline models, this capacity still handles most daily cargo needs effectively.

Folding the rear seats in hybrid models increases cargo space to 1,721 litres. This is approximately 131 litres less than gasoline models, but it remains substantial for most hauling requirements. The trade-off between cargo space and fuel efficiency proves worthwhile for many buyers seeking reduced fuel consumption.

Cargo Accessibility Features

The Escape features a wide rear hatch opening for easier loading and unloading of bulky items. This thoughtful design element simplifies cargo management during everyday use. Smart storage pockets throughout the cabin provide convenient locations for smaller items, keeping the interior organized.

A hands-free liftgate is available on higher trim levels, allowing you to open the cargo area with a simple kicking motion under the rear bumper. This feature proves particularly valuable when your hands are full with shopping bags or equipment.

Interior Materials by Trim Level

Active Trim Interior

The Active trim serves as the entry point to the Escape lineup. This trim features cloth seating surfaces that provide durability and easy maintenance. The cloth upholstery delivers comfortable seating without premium pricing, making it ideal for budget-conscious buyers or those prioritizing practicality.

The Active trim includes LED headlamps, dual-zone climate control, and the SYNC 4 system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen. The dashboard layout emphasizes clean lines and intuitive control placement, reducing clutter and visual noise. Standard features create a functional, comfortable cabin environment suitable for daily driving.

ST-Line Trim Materials

The ST-Line trim adds sportier interior styling elements. This trim features cloth and vinyl seating with distinctive red interior stitching that adds visual flair. The contrast stitching creates a more dynamic appearance that appeals to drivers seeking a sportier aesthetic.

A flat-bottom steering wheel enhances the sporting character of the ST-Line trim. The unique grille and exterior design elements carry through to interior touches that differentiate this trim from the base Active model. Wireless smartphone connectivity is standard and integrates seamlessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

ST-Line Select Enhancements

The ST-Line Select builds upon the standard ST-Line with additional comfort features. Heated front seats provide warmth during cold weather, enhancing comfort throughout the year. A heated steering wheel adds another layer of cold-weather convenience, eliminating the need to wear gloves during winter drives.

The seating materials in ST-Line Select include vinyl surfaces that are easier to clean and maintain than cloth. Remote start allows you to warm or cool the cabin before entering, adding convenience to your daily routine. Enhanced cabin comfort features create a more refined driving experience without reaching premium pricing levels.

ST-Line Elite Features

The ST-Line Elite represents a significant step up in interior refinement. This trim features upgraded seating materials that provide enhanced comfort and visual appeal. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster replaces traditional gauges, offering configurable displays that show information according to your preferences.

Advanced adaptive cruise control and lane centering technology enhance highway driving comfort. The panoramic roof option fills the cabin with natural light, creating an open, airy atmosphere. Premium audio systems deliver superior sound quality for music enthusiasts. Soft-touch surfaces appear throughout the cabin, elevating the tactile experience.

Platinum Trim Luxury

The Platinum trim tops the Escape lineup with near-luxury appointments. Synthetic leather seating provides premium comfort and a sophisticated appearance. This material offers the look and feel of genuine leather while providing easier maintenance and durability.

Enhanced ambient lighting creates a refined atmosphere, with multiple colours and intensity levels to suit your mood. The full SYNC 4 system delivers comprehensive connectivity and entertainment options. Premium finishes throughout the cabin, including textured inlays and contrast stitching, elevate the interior ambiance.

Power-adjustable front seats with memory functions allow multiple drivers to save their preferred seating positions. The hands-free liftgate is standard on Platinum trims, providing added convenience. An advanced safety suite offers comprehensive protection and driver-assistance features.

Plug-In Hybrid Interior Appointments

The Plug-In Hybrid model features luxury appointments similar to the Platinum trim. Synthetic leather seating provides premium comfort while supporting the eco-focused mission of the hybrid powertrain. Ambient lighting creates an upscale atmosphere throughout the cabin.

The full SYNC 4 system includes specific displays for monitoring battery charge, electric range, and energy consumption. These hybrid-specific features help you maximize efficiency and understand your vehicle’s operation. The hands-free liftgate and advanced safety suite come standard, matching the premium equipment found in Platinum trims.

Dashboard and Control Layout

Central Touchscreen

The Escape features a 13.2-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen as standard equipment across all trims. This large display provides clear visibility and intuitive operation for infotainment, navigation, and vehicle settings. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration allows seamless smartphone connectivity without cables.

The touchscreen interface responds quickly to inputs, reducing frustration during operation. The clean, modern layout presents information logically, making it easy to find desired functions. Voice recognition technology allows hands-free control of many functions, keeping your attention on the road.

Instrument Cluster Options

The Active and base ST-Line trims feature traditional analog gauges with a central information display. Higher trims offer a configurable digital instrument cluster that displays navigation, audio information, and vehicle data according to your preferences.

The 12.3-inch digital cluster available on ST-Line Elite and Platinum trims provides exceptional clarity and customization options. Multiple display modes allow you to prioritize the information most relevant to your current driving situation.

Ergonomic Design

The driver-centric cockpit places all controls within easy reach. Knobs, dials, and buttons feature logical grouping to reduce distraction during operation. The gear shifter, drive mode selector, and key controls provide tactile feedback, allowing operation by feel rather than requiring visual confirmation.

Improved ergonomic controls make the Escape more intuitive to operate. The steering wheel includes height and telescopic adjustment across all trims, allowing drivers to find their optimal driving position. Heated steering wheels appear on all trims except the base Active model.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Climate Control Systems

All Escape trims feature dual-zone automatic climate control. This system allows the driver and front passenger to set independent temperature preferences, eliminating debates over cabin temperature. The automatic operation maintains your selected temperature without constant adjustment.

Improved cabin insulation reduces wind and road noise throughout the interior. This refinement creates a quieter environment for conversation and audio enjoyment. The enhanced sound deadening proves particularly noticeable during highway driving.

Seating Comfort Across Trims

Upgraded seating comfort appears throughout the Escape lineup. Even base cloth seats provide supportive comfort for extended drives. Smart seat design optimizes support for various body types, reducing fatigue during long trips.

Heated front seats appear on all trims except the base Active model. Ventilated seats become available on higher trims, providing cooling comfort during warm weather. Power-adjustable driver seats appear on ST-Line Elite and Platinum trims, allowing precise positioning.

Storage Solutions

Smart storage pockets throughout the cabin keep smaller items organized and accessible. Door pockets, center console storage, and cubbies provide convenient locations for phones, wallets, sunglasses, and other essentials. Cup holders accommodate various container sizes, from coffee cups to water bottles.

The center console includes USB ports for device charging and data connectivity. Power outlets allow you to charge laptops and other devices during travel. These thoughtful touches enhance the practicality for modern lifestyles.

Premium Touches and Refinement

Ambient Lighting

Enhanced ambient lighting appears on higher Escape trims, creating a sophisticated cabin atmosphere. Multiple colors and intensity levels allow you to customize the lighting to match your preferences. The subtle illumination enhances the interior’s visual appeal during evening drives.

The ambient lighting integrates with the overall interior design, highlighting architectural elements and creating depth. This feature transforms the cabin from purely functional to genuinely inviting.

Premium Materials and Finishes

Soft-touch surfaces appear throughout upper-level trims, elevating the tactile experience. These materials create a more upscale feeling compared to hard plastics common in many compact SUVs. Subtle accent stitching adds visual interest to door panels and dashboard elements.

Textured inlays on higher trims provide additional visual refinement. These details demonstrate attention to interior design that rivals more expensive vehicles. The premium finishes help justify the Escape position as a refined compact SUV rather than a basic transportation appliance.

Mirror and Visibility Features

Auto-dimming rearview mirrors come standard across all Escape trims. This feature reduces glare from following vehicles during night driving, improving comfort and safety. Power-adjustable heated door mirrors appear on all trims except base Active models.

Privacy glass enhances rear passenger comfort by reducing solar heat gain and providing visual privacy. This feature appears across the Escape lineup, demonstrating the Ford commitment to passenger comfort throughout the range.

Technology Integration

Connectivity Features

Wireless smartphone connectivity appears across the Escape lineup, eliminating cable clutter. Bluetooth connection allows hands-free phone calls and audio streaming. The system pairs quickly and reliably, integrating your digital life seamlessly with the vehicle.

Smart device integration extends beyond basic phone mirroring. The SYNC 4 system includes over-the-air update capability on certain configurations, keeping your vehicle’s software current without dealership visits. This technology ensures your Escape remains up-to-date throughout ownership.

Audio Systems

Base trims include capable audio systems with multiple speakers strategically positioned throughout the cabin. Upper trims offer premium audio upgrades that deliver superior sound quality. These enhanced systems include additional speakers, amplification, and acoustic tuning for audiophile-level performance.

The improved cabin insulation enhances audio system performance by reducing ambient noise. This refinement allows you to enjoy music at lower volume levels while maintaining clarity and detail.

Practical Interior Considerations

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cloth seating in lower trims provides durability and straightforward maintenance. Most stains respond to standard upholstery cleaning products. Vinyl surfaces on mid-level trims offer even easier cleaning, requiring only a damp cloth for most spills.

Synthetic leather on Platinum and Plug-In Hybrid trims combines the appearance of genuine leather with easier maintenance. These materials resist staining better than traditional leather and don’t require special conditioning products. The practical nature of these materials suits active lifestyles and families with children.

All-Season Practicality

The Escape interior design considers year-round use. Heated seats and steering wheel provide cold-weather comfort, while ventilated seats available on higher trims offer warm-weather relief. The dual-zone climate control quickly brings the cabin to comfortable temperatures regardless of outside conditions.

Floor mats help protect carpet from dirt, snow, and spills. The wide door openings and generous step-in height make entry and exit easier during inclement weather. These practical considerations demonstrate an understanding of real-world driving conditions.

Interior Lighting

Natural Light Options

The panoramic roof option on ST-Line Elite and Platinum trims dramatically increases natural light within the cabin. This sweeping glass panel creates an open-air atmosphere that makes the interior feel more spacious. The panoramic roof includes a power shade for sun protection when desired.

Large windows throughout the Escape provide excellent visibility and allow natural light to fill the cabin. The greenhouse design creates an airy feeling that prevents the claustrophobic sensation some occupants experience in vehicles with smaller windows.

Interior Illumination

Map lights provide directed illumination for front and rear passengers. These lights allow passengers to read or work without disturbing others. The interior lighting automatically illuminates when doors open, providing welcome illumination during entry and exit.

The ambient lighting system on higher trims adds subtle illumination throughout the cabin. This lighting creates a pleasant atmosphere during evening drives without causing distraction or reducing night vision.

Dimensional Comparison Considerations

Competitive Interior Space

The Escape interior dimensions position it competitively within the compact SUV segment. The 1,077 mm of front legroom matches or exceeds many competitors, ensuring driver comfort during extended trips. The 1,035 mm of rear legroom in gasoline models provides adequate space for adult passengers on shorter journeys.

Cargo capacity of 1,852 litres with seats folded competes well within the segment, though some rivals offer slightly more maximum cargo volume. The Escape balances passenger space and cargo capacity effectively, creating a versatile package suitable for various needs.

Cabin Width and Comfort

Shoulder room measurements of 1,463 mm in front and 1,422 mm in rear create comfortable lateral space for occupants. These dimensions allow three adults to sit in back without excessive shoulder contact. The hip room measurements ensure comfortable seating positions without feeling squeezed.

The cabin width provides ample space for five passengers during trips of moderate duration. The generous dimensions reduce the cramped feeling common in some compact SUVs, enhancing overall comfort and passenger satisfaction.

2026 Ford Escape Frequently Asked Questions

How much cargo space does the 2026 Ford Escape offer compared to hybrid models?

• Gasoline-powered models provide 1,062 litres of cargo space with all seats in place and 1,852 litres with rear seats folded. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants offer 974 litres with seats up and 1,721 litres with seats folded. The approximately 131-litre reduction in hybrid models results from battery packaging but still provides substantial cargo capacity for most daily needs.

What seating materials are available across different 2026 Escape trim levels?

• The Active trim features cloth seating, while ST-Line trims use cloth and vinyl combinations with sporty red stitching. ST-Line Elite offers upgraded materials with enhanced comfort. The Platinum and Plug-In Hybrid trims feature synthetic leather seating that provides premium appearance and easier maintenance than genuine leather while maintaining durability.

Does the 2026 Ford Escape have adequate rear legroom for adult passengers?

• Gasoline-powered models offer 1,035 mm of rear legroom, sufficient for most adults on trips of moderate length. Hybrid models provide 989 mm of rear legroom due to battery placement. The rear seats also slide and recline, allowing you to adjust space based on passenger needs versus cargo requirements. Taller passengers may find legroom adequate but not generous on longer journeys.

Which 2026 Escape trims include heated seats and steering wheel?

• Heated front seats and heated steering wheels appear on all trims except the base Active model. ST-Line, ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite, Platinum, and Plug-In Hybrid trims all include these comfort features as standard equipment. The Active trim features standard cloth seats without heating, though it includes many other comfort and convenience features.

What technology features enhance the 2026 Ford Escape interior experience?

• All trims include a 13.2-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Higher trims add a configurable 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, enhanced ambient lighting, premium audio systems, and hands-free liftgate operation. Improved cabin insulation reduces wind and road noise across all trims, creating a quieter, more refined interior environment suitable for conversation and audio enjoyment.

Disclaimer: Content contained in this post is for informational purposes only and may include features and options from US or international models. Please contact the dealership for more information or to confirm vehicle, feature availability.