2026 Ford Escape Towing Capacity

New Escape Inventory Learn More Escape Research Hub

The 2026 Ford Escape is built to balance everyday fuel efficiency with real-world capability. For drivers in Abilene, it is important to know the towing limits for each engine option before hauling a small trailer, a jet ski, or weekend gear. Towing capacity depends on the powertrain you choose and whether the Escape is equipped with the factory Class II Trailer Tow Package. This guide breaks down the maximum towing ratings and the cooling and equipment requirements needed for consistent, reliable towing in West Texas conditions.

Towing Capacity by Powertrain

Maximum towing capacity varies across the three available engine options. The high-output 2.0L EcoBoost is the only setup that can reach the 3,500-pound maximum, as long as the Escape is equipped with the required cooling and towing equipment.

Engine Configuration	Drivetrain	Max Towing (Standard)	Max Towing (Class II Package)
1.5L EcoBoost I-3	FWD or AWD	2,000 lbs	Not Available
2.0L EcoBoost I-4	AWD	2,000 lbs	3,500 lbs
2.5L iVCT Hybrid	FWD or AWD	1,500 lbs	Not Available
2.5L Plug-In Hybrid	FWD	1,500 lbs	Not Available

The Class II Trailer Tow Package (536)

	To achieve the 3,500 pound rating on the 2.0L EcoBoost models, the Class II Trailer Tow Package is required. This package includes more than just a hitch receiver and a four pin wiring harness. It integrates specialized engine software that adjusts the 8 speed automatic transmission shift points to reduce hunting and heat buildup. Additionally, it features a heavy duty engine oil cooler to maintain thermal stability when climbing grades or driving in the high ambient temperatures of the Big Country.

To achieve the 3,500 pound rating on the 2.0L EcoBoost models, the Class II Trailer Tow Package is required. This package includes more than just a hitch receiver and a four pin wiring harness. It integrates specialized engine software that adjusts the 8 speed automatic transmission shift points to reduce hunting and heat buildup. Additionally, it features a heavy duty engine oil cooler to maintain thermal stability when climbing grades or driving in the high ambient temperatures of the Big Country.

Dimensional and Stability Specifications

Towing safety is further enhanced by the Escape’s electronic stability control system, which includes Trailer Sway Control as a standard feature. This system uses sensors to monitor the vehicle's motion and applies precise braking to individual wheels if trailer oscillation is detected. Curb Weight: 3,298 to 3,904 lbs (Depending on trim) Maximum Tongue Load: 10 percent of total trailer weight Wheelbase: 106.7 inches Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): Up to 7,900 lbs

Towing safety is further enhanced by the Escape’s electronic stability control system, which includes Trailer Sway Control as a standard feature. This system uses sensors to monitor the vehicle's motion and applies precise braking to individual wheels if trailer oscillation is detected.

Curb Weight: 3,298 to 3,904 lbs (Depending on trim)
Maximum Tongue Load: 10 percent of total trailer weight
Wheelbase: 106.7 inches
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): Up to 7,900 lbs

a 2026 Ford Escape towing a trailer parked on the side of the road next to a lake

Hauling with Confidence at Arrow Ford

	Selecting the correct Escape for your towing needs involves matching the powertrain to your trailer's total weight and aerodynamic profile. At Arrow Ford, our technical specialists can help you verify the axle ratios and cooling capacities of our 2026 inventory to ensure your vehicle is optimized for your hauling requirements.

Browse New Ford Escape Inventory Learn Why Abilene Families Trust Arrow Ford

May not represent actual vehicle. (Options, colors, trim and body style may vary)

Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, and license charges. ‡Vehicles shown at different locations are not currently in our inventory (Not in Stock) but can be made available to you at our location within a reasonable date from the time of your request, not to exceed one week.