2026 Ford Escape ST-Line Elite vs ST-Line Select
Where the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line Select delivers sporty styling and premium features, the ST-Line Elite provides even more of the same. So which of these compact crossover SUVs should you choose? Read our comparison guide before you decide!
Key Takeaways
- Both trim models come standard with the Escape's most powerful engine option, putting 250 horsepower at your command!
- Although the ST-Line Select is big on upscale features, the ST-Line Elite ultimately comes standard with more of them.
- These SUVs are loaded with high-tech driver safety aids, but only the ST-Line Elite includes extras like adaptive cruise control.
- In spite of their luxurious accommodations, you can get a great price on both the 2026 Escape ST-Line Select (from $35,015*) and ST-Line Elite (from $38,935*)!
Which offers the sportiest performance, the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line Elite or ST-Line Select?
When it comes to sporty handling and turbocharged power, these Escape trim models have everything in common. Both come standard with the Escape's most powerful engine -- a turbocharged number that spits out 250 horses for a quick, responsive ride. A hybrid powertrain (210 hp) is available to help your SUV achieve greater fuel economy (39 mpg combined).
2026 Escape ST-Line Select/ST-Line Elite Powertrain Specs
- Standard 2.0L EcoBoost I4 (250 hp, 280 lb-ft) and eight-speed automatic
- Optional 2.0L turbocharged hybrid engine (210 hp) and continuously variable automatic
- All-wheel drive
- All-season tires
- 3,500 pounds max towing (properly equipped)
- Optional Class II Trailer Tow Package
Which is more comfortable, the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line Elite or ST-Line Select?
Both models are very comfortable! However, since the ST-Line Elite is the more luxurious of these upscale trim models, it'll make your daily drive a little swankier, adding features like wireless smartphone charging and driver memory settings.
Ultimately, though, these Escape trims have quite a bit in common, from their sporty ST-Line styling to their winter-ready comforts. For instance, both SUVs keep you cozy with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. And both are available with luxury options like the panoramic power sunroof!
| Escape Model | ST-Line Select | ST-Line Elite |
|---|---|---|
| Wheels | 18-inch Rock Metallic aluminum wheels | 19-inch machined-face Ebony aluminum wheels |
| Upholstery | Vinyl and cloth | Vinyl and cloth |
| Front Seats | Heated, power-adjustable with power lumbar and power recline | Heated, power-adjustable with power lumbar, power recline, and driver memory |
| Start Tech | Intelligent Access with push-button startRemote Start System | |
| Steering Wheel | Heated | Heated |
| A/C | Dual-zone automatic climate control | Dual-zone automatic climate control |
| Driver Information Display | 8-inch digital display | 12.3-inch digital display |
| Infotainment | SYNC 4 with 8-inch touchscreenWireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto | SYNC 4 with 13.2-inch touchscreenWireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto |
| Audio | Six speakers | Six speakers |
| Interior Styling | Center console/arm rest with Red stitchingPartial vinyl-and-cloth upholstery with Red stitchingSport Dark headlinerFlat-bottom sport steering wheel with Red stitching | Center console/arm rest with Red stitchingPartial vinyl-and-cloth upholstery with Red stitchingSport Dark headlinerFlat-bottom sport steering wheel with Red stitchingUnique accents on door/IP |
| Headlamps | LED with Signature Lighting | LED with LED light bar |
| Fog Lamps | LED | LED |
| Exterior Mirrors | Heated | Heated |
| Liftgate | Power | Power |
| Exterior Styling | Black grilleBody-color mirror capsBlack roof-rack railsLarge, single-wing rear spoilerST-Line badging | Black grilleBody-color mirror capsBlack roof-rack railsLarge, single-wing rear spoilerST-Line badgingBody-color front/rear fascia and rocker panelsPainted bumpers |
| Extra Features | Front-seat sliding sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrorsOne-Touch up/down front and rear power windows | Auto-dimming rearview mirrorWireless smartphone charging pad |
| Options | 10-speaker B&O sound system360-degree camera with Split ViewPanoramic Vista Roof (with power open/close and power shade) | 10-speaker B&O sound system360-degree camera with Split ViewPanoramic Vista Roof (with power open/close and power shade) |
What safety features are included in the ST-Line Elite but not the Select?
Although both high-end Escape trim models are loaded with driver safety aids, the ST-Line Elite comes standard with the longest list of them. These include favorites like adaptive cruise control (which automatically maintains a safe distance from the vehicle up ahead) and Evasive Steering Assist (which can steer you away from danger in certain situations). Then again, these SUVs share more safety aids than not, including must-haves like blind-spot warning and lane-keeping assist!
| Escape Model | ST-Line Select | ST-Line Elite |
|---|---|---|
| Automatic high beams | ✓ | ✓ |
| Blind-spot monitoring with rear-cross traffic braking | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane-keeping system (with lane-keeping assist, lane-keeping alert, and driver alert) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Pre-collision assist (with automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, and dynamic brake support) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Post-collision braking | ✓ | ✓ |
| Road departure warning | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rearview camera | ✓ | ✓ |
| Evasive Steering Assist | ✓ | |
| Intersection Assist | ✓ | |
| Adaptive cruise control (with Stop-and-Go, lane-centering assist, and predictive speed assist) | ✓ | |
| Rear parking sensor | ✓ | |
| Perimeter alarm | ✓ |
How much is the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line Elite compared to the ST-Line Select?
Shop the 2026 Escape ST-Line Select, starting at $35,015*, or enjoy extra luxury in the ST-Line Elite, from $38,935*! But no matter which of these small SUVs is right for your daily drive, you can visit us at Brighton Ford for a test-drive. Call or text Brighton Ford in Brighton to make an appointment -- we'll make sure your new Escape has all the upscale features you crave!
*MSRP as of 1/18/26. Subject to change
