The Ford Escape ends production after 25 years, sparking dealer concerns over sales and future models. Discover what’s next for Ford – read more now!
After a quarter‑century on American roads, the Ford Escape has rolled off the assembly line for the last time. The final vehicle left the Louisville plant on December 17, marking the end of a model that once sold over 300,000 units a year.
End of an era
First launched in 1999, the Escape grew into one of Ford’s best‑selling compact SUVs. Its popularity peaked with annual sales exceeding 308,000 units, but demand has been on a steady decline. In 2023 the model moved 141,000 units, and early 2024 figures show a modest rebound to 147,000.
Sales snapshot
Through the first eleven months of this year, U.S. dealers have delivered 132,471 Escapes—roughly the same volume as the rugged Bronco Sport, even though many dealers have been running promotions for the latter.
Dealer concerns
Across the country, Ford dealers are voicing anxiety about the revenue gap the Escape’s exit will create. Doug North, president of North Bros. in Detroit, warned that the model filled a crucial low‑price niche and acted as a gateway for first‑time buyers who later graduate to higher‑margin vehicles like the Explorer.
“The Escape attracted new customers and kept them within the Ford family,” North said. “Losing it could leave a sizable hole in the affordable‑segment market and hurt dealer earnings.”
Other dealers echoed the sentiment, pointing out that the Escape has been instrumental in attracting budget‑conscious shoppers as vehicle prices continue to rise.
Factory shift to an electric future
The Louisville facility, which also assembles the Lincoln Corsair, is undergoing a major retooling effort. By 2027 the line is expected to start producing a brand‑new mid‑size electric pickup truck—Ford’s next big push into zero‑emission trucks.
Ford’s roadmap beyond the Escape
While some dealers are skeptical, Ford is already positioning other models to fill the gap. The company is betting on the Bronco Sport and Maverick compact trucks, and it has announced plans for five new low‑cost vehicles slated for a 2030 launch.
- Compact electric crossover
- Sub‑compact hybrid SUV
- Budget-friendly sedan
- Entry‑level electric hatchback
- Affordably priced plug‑in hybrid
Until those models hit showrooms, Ford’s dealer network will need to lean on its existing lineup to sustain sales.
For consumers, the end of the Escape means fewer choices in the compact SUV market, but it also signals Ford’s accelerating shift toward electrified vehicles and new, budget‑friendly options in the coming years.