We are starting to wonder if the Ford Escape will head out to pasture soon. The Ford Bronco Sport seems to be a more popular option, despite sharing tons of parts with the Ford Escape. Let’s see what the plans for the future are. 

Is the Ford Escape being discontinued? 

There are some rumors that suggest the Ford Escape could be discontinued in America. According to CarBuzz, the Escape could live on in other countries such as China as a new three-row variant. 

The model is expected to replace the Ford Edge. However, we won’t get the three-row Escape in America, and we’re not so sure how long the two-row model will stick around. The three-row model will be built on the same platform used by the current Escape, Bronco, and Maverick. 

Also, the Ford Escape may have to compete against the new Ford Fusion Active wagon. It’s being designed to compete against the Subaru Outback. Images show a similar front fascia to the Edge with a high-tech interior. 

What about the 2022 Escape? 

There is a 2022 Ford Escape on the way. Escape sales actually improved by 21 percent in Q2 of 2020. However, before this boost, the Escape faced declining sales for 10 consecutive quarters. So, perhaps it was dying and is now making a comeback. 

The current generation Escape is pretty much built for on-pavement adventuring. This is fine as people need comfortable daily drivers in the city. But it lacks some of the off-roading features and flair that the Ford Bronco Sport has to offer. 

Also, when the Escape first made its debut, it had a boxy, upright style. This was in an attempt to attract more people to the off-roading segment. Then the Escape adopted its new curvier look. But if the Ford Bronco Sport has the same look, could it attract more buyers? 

Not much is changing for the 2022 Escape. It was just refreshed for 2020. But the hybrid powertrain is now available with the SE and SEL trims and comes standard on the top-of-the-line Titanium model. 

The optional CO-Pilot360 Plus package now includes adaptive cruise control and road sign recognition. Hands-free power lift doors and memory settings for the driver’s seat and mirrors are included in the Technology package. Also, the Trailer Tow Class II package is available with all Escape trims that are paired with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. 

What’s the future for the Escape? 

Despite ranking below competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Hyundai Tucson, the Ford Escape looks like it will make some changes. The 2023 model is expected to gain a slight refresh, while the Escape will be fully refreshed for 2025. 

If these plans stay on track, then the Escape won’t be going anywhere for a while, even as it expands in China. The 2021 Escape starts at $25,555, while the Bronco Sport begins at $27,215. 

So, the Escape isn’t being replaced by the Ford Bronco Sport for now. It also serves as a cheaper option for daily drivers and includes hybrid powertrain options. Perhaps the Bronco SPort will borrow more from the Escape later.