The Ford SUV lineup for 2025 and 2026 is more diverse and capable than ever, but navigating the options can be a complex task. With a mix of model years, new trims, and distinct vehicle classes, how do you decide between an adventure-ready Bronco, a family-hauling Explorer, or an efficient Escape?.
This report provides a definitive, data-driven comparison of the entire 2025-2026 Ford SUV lineup. We will decode the specifications, from seating capacity and cargo space to maximum towing and pricing, helping you find the perfect model for your lifestyle, whether you need a city-friendly hybrid, a-trail conquering 4×4, or an 8-seat family hauler.
Ford SUV Comparison: 2025 Lineup
Your data-driven guide to finding the perfect Ford SUV.
At-a-Glance Comparison Chart
The Ford SUV lineup ranges from compact and efficient crossovers to full-size, powerful people-movers. This chart provides a high-level overview of the key metrics that matter most to buyers: price, seating, cargo space, and fuel economy.
Model
Starting MSRP (Est.)
Seating
Max Cargo (cu. ft.)
Max Combined (MPG)
Bronco Sport
~$31,230
5
65.2
26
Escape
~$29,345
5
65.4
39 (Hybrid)
Edge
~$38,465
5
73.4
23
Mustang Mach-E
~$43,495
5
59.7
310 (Miles)
Bronco
~$39,130
4-5
83.0 (4-Dr)
20
Explorer
~$36,760
6-7
87.8
27 (Hybrid)
Expedition
~$55,525
7-8
121.5 (MAX)
19
Data is for 2024/2025 models and is subject to change. MPG and range vary by trim and driving conditions. Max Cargo Volume is typically with rear seats folded down.
Max Seating Capacity
From solo commuters to large families, Ford has an option. Most of the lineup focuses on the popular 5-seat configuration, with the Explorer and Expedition providing three-row solutions.
Key Takeaway: The Ford Explorer offers a versatile 6 or 7-seat layout, while the Expedition is the clear choice for maximum passenger capacity, seating up to 8.
Max Cargo Volume (cu. ft.)
Cargo space is a primary reason for choosing an SUV. This chart compares the maximum available cargo volume with the rear seats folded, showing a clear progression in size across the lineup.
Key Takeaway: The Expedition MAX offers cavernous, class-leading storage. The Explorer and Bronco (4-Door) also provide substantial utility for large items, while the compact SUVs offer impressive flexibility.
Base Engine Horsepower
Power matters, whether for highway merging or off-road capability. This chart shows the *starting* horsepower for the base engine of each model. High-performance trims (like ST or Raptor) offer significantly more.
Key Takeaway: The full-size Expedition and off-road Bronco have the most powerful base engines. The Mustang Mach-E’s electric powertrain also delivers impressive standard performance.
Max Fuel Economy (Combined MPG)
Fuel efficiency is a critical factor. This chart compares the *best-case* combined MPG (city/highway) available for each model, which is often found in Hybrid or specific FWD configurations.
Key Takeaway: The Escape Hybrid leads the pack in traditional fuel economy. The larger, more powerful SUVs trade efficiency for capability and size, as expected.
The All-Electric Option
The Mustang Mach-E represents Ford’s all-electric future, offering impressive range and instant torque, measured in miles of range instead of MPG.
310
Max Miles of Range
Key Takeaway: With over 300 miles of available range, the Mach-E is a practical and exciting alternative to gas-powered vehicles for daily driving and road trips.
Off-Road Capability Spectrum
Not all “SUVs” are created equal when the pavement ends. Ford offers a clear spectrum of capability, from all-weather security to extreme rock-crawling.
🚗
All-Weather (AWD)
Models like the Escape and Edge offer available AWD for confidence in rain, snow, and on gravel roads.
↓
🏞️
Trail Capable (Bronco Sport)
The Bronco Sport is “Built Wild” with standard 4×4, G.O.A.T. Modes™, and a rugged design for serious adventure.
↓
⛰️
Extreme Off-Road (Bronco)
The big Bronco is a body-on-frame, extreme machine with available front/rear lockers and sway-bar disconnect for true rock-crawling.
The 2025-2026 Ford SUV Lineup: At-a-Glance Comparison Chart
For buyers in the evaluation phase, this high-level comparison chart provides the primary decision-making factors for the entire Ford SUV family.
Model
Model Year(s)
Class
Seating Capacity
Max Cargo (Behind 1st Row)
Max Towing
Base Engine
Est. Combined MPG / Range
Starting MSRP
Escape
2026
Compact Crossover
5
65.4 cu. ft.
3,500 lbs.
1.5L EcoBoost® I-3
~30 MPG (Gas)
$30,350
Bronco Sport
2025
Compact Crossover
5
65.2 cu. ft.
2,700 lbs.
1.5L EcoBoost® I-3
~27 MPG (Gas)
$31,695
Mustang Mach-E
2025
Electric Crossover
5
59.7 cu. ft.
Not Recommended (US)
Electric Motor
260–320 mi. Range
$37,995
Explorer
2026
Mid-Size SUV
6–7
87.8 cu. ft.
5,000 lbs.
2.3L EcoBoost® I-4
~23–24 MPG (Gas)
$38,465
Bronco
2026
Mid-Size Off-Road SUV
4–5
77.6 cu. ft. (4-Dr)
4,500 lbs.
2.3L EcoBoost® I-4
~18–20 MPG (Gas)
$39,995
Expedition
2025
Full-Size SUV
7–8
121.5 cu. ft. (MAX)
9,600 lbs.
3.5L EcoBoost® V6
~18–19 MPG (Gas)
$62,400
Finding Your Fit: Which Ford SUV Matches Your Lifestyle?
This quick guide helps segment the lineup based on your primary needs:
For the Daily Commuter & Small Family (The Efficiency Expert): The 2026 Ford Escape is the clear choice. Its focus is on everyday versatility, flexible cargo, and industry-leading fuel economy, especially with its outstanding hybrid and plug-in hybrid options.
For the Adventure-Ready Crossover (The Weekend Warrior): The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport delivers. It blends daily-drivable, compact comfort with legitimate off-road credibility, thanks to a standard 4×4 system and G.O.A.T. Modes® (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain).
For the 3-Row Family (The People Mover): The 2026 Ford Explorer is the quintessential family SUV. It offers standard 3-row seating for up to seven, robust safety features, and advanced new tech like the Ford Digital Experience to keep everyone connected.
For the True Off-Road Enthusiast (The Trail Icon): The 2026 Ford Bronco is a purpose-built, body-on-frame 4×4. With removable doors and roof, it’s a true off-road vehicle designed to conquer the toughest trails.
For the Max Hauler & Large Family (The Powerhouse): The 2025 Ford Expedition is the ultimate choice for large families. As the only 8-seater in the lineup, this truck-based SUV offers cavernous interior space and the highest towing capacity by a massive margin.
For the Tech-Forward & Eco-Conscious (The Futurist): The 2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E is an all-electric, performance-oriented crossover. It combines Mustang-inspired styling with a massive 15.5-inch touchscreen, zero tailpipe emissions, and thrilling acceleration.
Deep Dive: 2026 Ford Escape (Compact & Efficient)
2026 Escape: What’s New?
The 2026 Ford Escape serves as the brand’s versatile and efficient “getaway car”. Following a significant refresh, the 2026 model carries forward a stylish design and a diverse portfolio of four different powertrain options. This wide array of choices is the Escape’s core strategy, aiming to capture every type of compact SUV buyer. Note that 2026 is slated to be the final model year for the Escape, as Ford shifts focus to its more rugged Bronco Sport counterpart.
2026 Escape Specs: Engine, HP, and MPG
The Escape’s primary strength is its powertrain versatility.
1.5L EcoBoost® I-3 (Base): Standard on most gas trims, this engine produces 180 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque, offering a solid blend of power and efficiency for daily driving.
2.0L EcoBoost® I-4 (Optional): Available on higher trims, this is the “performance” gas option, delivering 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This engine is required to achieve the Escape’s maximum tow rating.
2.5L Hybrid (HEV): This 210-total-system-horsepower powertrain is the fuel-economy champion for those who prefer a traditional hybrid. It achieves an impressive EPA-estimated 42 MPG city and 36 MPG highway.
2.5L Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): Also rated at 210 horsepower, the PHEV offers the best of both worlds. It provides up to 101 MPGe and an all-electric range of 37 miles, allowing for gas-free commuting for many drivers.
2026 Escape Trims & Pricing
The Escape’s trim ladder is structured to provide clear gateways to its different powertrains.
Trim
Starting MSRP
Standard Powertrain
Active™
$30,350
Gas (1.5L)
ST-Line
$31,195
Gas (1.5L)
ST-Line Select
$35,015
Hybrid / Available Gas (2.0L)
Plug-in Hybrid
$35,400
Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
Platinum™
$37,940
Gas (1.5L) / Available Gas (2.0L)
ST-Line Elite
$38,935
Hybrid / Available Gas (2.0L)
Cargo Space & Seating
The 2026 Escape seats five passengers comfortably. It offers 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and a maximum of 65.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. A key, often-overlooked feature is the sliding second-row seat. This allows owners to choose between maximizing rear-seat legroom for adult passengers or sliding the bench forward to increase cargo space behind the seat—a significant versatility bonus.
Max Towing Capacity
Towing capacity is tiered by engine. The 1.5L EcoBoost® engine tows up to 2,000 pounds, while the Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models are rated for 1,500 pounds. To achieve the 2026 Escape’s maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, you must select the 2.0L EcoBoost® engine and add the available Class II Trailer Tow Package.
Tech & Safety
The 2026 Escape features the modern SYNC® 4 system, which includes a large 13.2-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. Standard on all trims is the Ford Co-Pilot360™ suite, which provides key driver aids like Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System), and a Lane-Keeping System.
Deep Dive: 2025 Ford Bronco Sport (The Rugged Crossover)
Bronco vs. Bronco Sport: What’s the Real Difference?
This is the most critical question for buyers in this segment. While they share a legendary name, they are two fundamentally different vehicles. Our full Bronco vs. Bronco Sport comparison has even more details, but here is the short answer:
2025 Bronco Sport: This is a unibody crossover. It is built on the same platform as the Ford Escape and is only available as a 4-door. It is a “daily-driver-plus,” designed to be comfortable on the road but with standard 4×4 and G.O.A.T. Modes® to handle significant off-road adventure. It is smaller, with a length of 173.1 inches.
2026 Bronco: This is a body-on-frame SUV. It is built like a truck for maximum off-road capability. It’s larger (173.7 to 189.4 inches long) and is the only one to offer 2-door and 4-door options, as well as removable doors and a removable roof.
In simple terms: The Bronco Sport is Ford’s answer to a Subaru Outback Wilderness, built for weekend adventures. The Bronco is Ford’s answer to a Jeep Wrangler, built for dedicated off-roading.
2025 Bronco Sport Specs: Engines & G.O.A.T. Modes®
The Bronco Sport’s trim choice dictates its engine and off-road hardware.
1.5L EcoBoost® I-3 (Standard): This engine, standard on the Big Bend, Heritage, Free Wheeling, and Outer Banks trims, produces 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a standard 4×4 system and a Terrain Management System™ with 5 G.O.A.T. Modes® (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain)
2.0L EcoBoost® I-4 (Badlands®): This upgraded engine is available only on the top-tier Badlands® trim.56 It delivers a much more powerful 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque The Badlands® model also receives an advanced 4×4 system with a twin-clutch rear drive unit and two additional G.O.A.T. Modes® (Mud/Ruts and Rock Crawl) for a total of seven.
2025 Bronco Sport Trims & Pricing
Big Bend®: Starting at $31,695
Heritage: Starting at $33,135
Free Wheeling™: Starting at $33,135
Outer Banks®: Starting at $36,795
Badlands®: Starting at $39,995
Cargo Space & Seating
The 2025 Bronco Sport seats 5 passengers. It offers 32.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and a maximum of 65.2 cubic feet with the seats folded. The vehicle’s “safari-style” roof is a key design element, as it provides best-in-class rear headroom 56 and allows for a tall, boxy cargo area. This space is designed for utility, with available features like a slide-out work table, rubberized flooring, and seat-back protectors for easy cleanup after adventures.
Max Towing Capacity
Towing capacity is strictly determined by the engine. Models with the 1.5L engine (Big Bend, Heritage, Free Wheeling, Outer Banks) can tow up to 2,000 pounds, or 2,200 pounds with the optional Class II Trailer Tow Package. To get the maximum 2,700-pound towing capacity, you must purchase the Badlands® trim with the 2.0L engine and the Class II Trailer Tow Package.
Tech & Safety
A significant upgrade for the 2025 model year is the new standard 13.2-inch SYNC® 4 touchscreen and standard Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+. This means features like Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering are now standard, which were previously premium options. The base Co-Pilot360™ suite also includes Pre-Collision Assist, BLIS®, and a Lane-Keeping System.
Deep Dive: 2026 Ford Bronco (The Off-Road Icon)
2026 Bronco: 2-Door vs. 4-Door Comparison
The first decision for any Bronco buyer is the configuration, and it’s a choice that fundamentally changes the vehicle’s practicality.
Feature
2026 Bronco 2-Door
2026 Bronco 4-Door
Seating Capacity
4 Passengers
5 Passengers
Exterior Length
173.7 in.
189.4 in.
Cargo (Behind Rear Seat)
22.4 cu. ft.
35.6–38.3 cu. ft.
Cargo (Max, Seats Folded)
52.3 cu. ft.
77.6–83.0 cu. ft.
The takeaway is clear: the 4-door model is approximately 16 inches longer, which translates into a usable 5th seat and nearly double the cargo capacity. The 2-door has iconic proportions, but its back seat and cargo area are best reserved for occasional use. The 4-door is the practical choice for those who plan to carry passengers or gear regularly.
2026 Bronco Specs: Engines & Off-Road Tech
The 2026 Bronco offers three levels of potent, turbocharged power, all paired with a standard 4×4 system.
2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 (Base): This is the standard engine, producing 275 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque on regular fuel (or 300 hp / 325 lb-ft on premium). This is the only engine that can be paired with the segment-exclusive 7-speed manual transmission (6-speed + 1 crawler gear).
2.7L EcoBoost® V6 (Upgrade): A popular upgrade, this engine delivers a robust 315 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. It is paired exclusively with the 10-speed automatic transmission.
3.0L EcoBoost® V6 (Raptor®): Exclusive to the range-topping Bronco Raptor®, this high-output twin-turbo V6 produces 418 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque. This engine, combined with the Raptor’s specialized chassis, enables its 4,500-pound tow rating.
What’s New: The SYNC 5 System
A significant update for the 2026 model year is the introduction of the new SYNC® 5 infotainment system. While the 2025 model featured the highly-regarded SYNC® 4, the move to SYNC® 5 represents a major technological leap, offering faster processing, a more intuitive interface, and new connectivity features. The 2026 lineup also introduces new roof color options and a 4-door variant of the Stroppe Edition.
2026 Bronco Trims & Pricing
The Bronco lineup is vast, designed for customization. It starts with the Bronco Base ($40,495) and ranges through multiple trims like the Big Bend ($40,995), the retro-styled Heritage ($51,625), the trail-focused Badlands ($48,890), and the ultimate desert-running Raptor ($79,995).
Max Towing Capacity
This is a point of clarification for buyers. Most 2-door and 4-door Bronco models, when equipped with the optional tow package, are rated for a maximum of 3,500 pounds.79 The only way to get the 4,500-pound rating is to buy the Bronco Raptor®, which features the 3.0L V6 and a heavy-duty frame.
Deep Dive: 2026 Ford Explorer (The 3-Row Family SUV)
2026 Explorer: What’s New?
Following a major exterior and interior refresh for the 2025 model year , the 2026 Ford Explorer continues to be the quintessential 3-row family SUV. The biggest addition to the 2026 lineup is the new Explorer® Tremor® trim. This model adds rugged, off-road-focused equipment for families who need 7-passenger seating and the capability to venture off the pavement. The 2026 lineup also features the new Google-based Ford Digital Experience and available Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving with Automatic Lane Change.
2026 Explorer Specs: Engines (2.3L & 3.0L V6)
Ford has streamlined the Explorer’s powertrain choices into two capable options:
2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 (Base): This is the standard engine on the Active, ST-Line, Tremor, and Platinum trims. It is a powerful four-cylinder, producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
3.0L EcoBoost® V6 (Performance): This twin-turbo V6 unleashes 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. It is standard on the high-performance ST trim and available as an option on the Platinum and new Tremor trims.
A significant strategic move for 2026 is that the Class III Trailer Tow Package is now standard on every Explorer model. This signals a clear focus on marketing the Explorer’s capability right from the base trim. Authoritative reviews from publications like Car and Driver confirm these powerful engine specs.
2026 Explorer Trims & Pricing
Active: Starting at $38,465
ST-Line: Starting at $46,715
Tremor®: Starting at $50,025
Platinum™: Starting at $52,525
ST: Starting at $56,465
Cargo Space & Seating (7 Passengers)
The 2026 Explorer comes with standard 3-row seating for either six (with available 2nd-row captain’s chairs) or seven passengers. For 3-row SUV shoppers, the cargo space behind the third row is often the most critical metric.
Cargo Area
Volume
Behind 3rd Row
18.2 cu. ft.
Behind 2nd Row
47.9 cu. ft.
Behind 1st Row (Max)
87.8 cu. ft.
Max Towing Capacity
This is a major selling point for the 2026 Explorer. The maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds. Critically, because the Class III Tow Package is standard , this 5,000-pound rating applies to models equipped with both the 2.3L EcoBoost® engine and the 3.0L EcoBoost® V6. This is a significant advantage, as buyers do not need to pay for the top-tier engine just to tow a small boat or travel trailer.
Tech & Safety
The Explorer is a technology leader, available with Ford BlueCruise for hands-free highway driving. It also comes standard with the comprehensive Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ suite, which includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering, BLIS®, Evasive Steering Assist, and Pre-Collision Assist. For crash test data, the 2025 Ford Explorer has been evaluated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Deep Dive: 2025 Ford Expedition (The Full-Size Hauler)
Expedition vs. Expedition MAX: How Much Bigger is MAX?
This is the primary decision for Expedition buyers. Both the standard Expedition and the Expedition MAX seat up to 8 passengers. The difference is not passenger room—it’s cargo. The MAX is built on an extended wheelbase, and nearly all of that extra length is dedicated to cargo space behind the 3rd row.
The Expedition MAX is for families who need to simultaneously use all three rows for passengers and carry a large amount of luggage. The standard Expedition is for families who use the 3rd row occasionally but will often fold it down for cargo.
Cargo Area
2025 Expedition (Standard)
2025 Expedition MAX
Behind 3rd Row
22.9 cu. ft.
37.4 cu. ft.
Behind 2nd Row
69.9 cu. ft.
84.5 cu. ft.
Behind 1st Row (Max)
108.5 cu. ft.
123.1 cu. ft.
The MAX provides a game-changing 14.5+ cubic feet of additional space, most of it in the all-important area behind the 3rd-row seats.
2025 Expedition Specs: 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Power
The 2025 Expedition is built on a truck-based platform, and it uses the high-tech, twin-turbo 3.5L EcoBoost® V6 from the F-150, not a V8.85 This engine comes in two potencies:
Standard 3.5L EcoBoost® V6: 400 horsepower / 480 lb-ft of torque.
High-Output 3.5L EcoBoost® V6: 440 horsepower / 510 lb-ft of torque. This engine is standard on the Platinum, TREMOR®, and King Ranch® trims.
2025 Expedition Trims & Pricing
The 2025 Expedition lineup begins with the new Active™ trim, which starts at $62,400. The lineup moves up through luxurious models like the Platinum™ (starting $76,945) and King Ranch® (starting $89,170 for MAX). The extended-wheelbase MAX configuration is available on all trim levels for an additional cost.
Max Towing Capacity
The 2025 Expedition boasts the highest towing capacity in Ford’s SUV fleet. However, achieving the maximum rating requires a specific configuration.
The Configuration: This 9,600-lb rating is only achievable on the standard-wheelbase model with 4×4 and the optional Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package.
MAX Towing: The Expedition MAX (long-wheelbase) with the same package tows a slightly lower, but still massive, 9,000 pounds.
Standard Towing: Without the Heavy-Duty package, towing capacity is significantly lower, ranging from 6,000 to 7,000 pounds. This package is essential for any buyer who plans to haul a large trailer.
Tech & Safety
The redesigned 2025 Expedition features the new Ford Digital Experience, highlighted by an available 24-inch panoramic display stretching across the dash. All trims come standard with Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist 2.0, which includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Assist, and Pre-Collision Assist.107 Ford BlueCruise hands-free driving is available on the Platinum trim.
Deep Dive: 2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E (The Electric Crossover)
2025 Mach-E Specs: Battery, Range, and Performance
The 2025 Mustang Mach-E can be configured as an efficient long-range commuter or a true high-performance EV.
Select (Base): Comes with a Standard Range (73 kWh) battery, offering 264 hp with Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or 325 hp with all-wheel drive (eAWD). EPA-estimated range is 240–260 miles.
Premium: Can be upgraded to the Extended Range (88 kWh) battery , which pushes the eAWD range to 300 miles and the RWD range to 320 miles.
GT: Comes standard with the Extended Range (91 kWh) battery and eAWD, producing 480 horsepower and 600 lb-ft of torque. The available GT Performance Upgrade (for 2025) boosts torque to a staggering 700 lb-ft.
2025 Mach-E Trims & Pricing
Select: Starting at $37,995
Premium: Starting at $41,995
GT: Starting at $54,495
Rally: Starting at $58,490
Cargo Space, Seating, and the New 2025 Frunk
The Mach-E seats 5 passengers. In the rear, it offers 29.7 cubic feet of cargo space, which expands to 59.7 cubic feet with the 60/40 split-fold seats down.
A critical clarification is needed for the 2025 model’s front trunk (frunk). While previous model years and some dealer sites cite a 4.7 cu. ft. frunk, this is no longer accurate. Ford’s official 2025 technical specifications and real-world reviews confirm the 2025 model has a new, smaller 2.6 cu. ft. frunk. This reduction in space is the result of a significant engineering trade-off: the 2025 Mach-E now includes a standard heat pump, which improves cold-weather battery efficiency and range. This new hardware occupies space previously used by the larger frunk.
Max Towing Capacity
This is another vital clarification. While the Mustang Mach-E is rated for towing in Europe (up to 3,307 lbs), Ford does not recommend towing with the Mustang Mach-E in the United States. It is not listed in Ford’s US towing guides. Buyers who need to tow should select an Escape, Bronco Sport, Explorer, or Expedition.
Tech & Safety
The Mach-E’s cabin is dominated by a 15.5-inch vertical touchscreen running the SYNC® 4A infotainment system. It is available with the latest Ford BlueCruise 1.5, which adds Automatic Lane Change capability. The standard Ford Co-Pilot360® suite includes Adaptive Cruise Control, BLIS®, and Pre-Collision Assist.
Ford SUV Feature Comparison Charts
2025-2026 Ford SUV Towing Capacity Compared
This chart visualizes the three distinct “leagues” of towing capability in the Ford lineup.
Model
Maximum Towing Capacity
Mustang Mach-E
0 lbs. (Not Recommended)
Bronco Sport
2,700 lbs.
Escape
3,500 lbs.
Bronco
4,500 lbs.
Explorer
5,000 lbs.
Expedition
9,600 lbs.
2025-2026 Ford SUV Cargo Space Comparison (Behind 1st Row)
This chart shows the total available utility space in each vehicle.
Model
Max Cargo Volume (Seats Down)
Mustang Mach-E
59.7 cu. ft.
Bronco Sport
65.2 cu. ft.
Escape
65.4 cu. ft.
Bronco (4-Door)
77.6 cu. ft.
Explorer
87.8 cu. ft.
Expedition
108.5 cu. ft.
Expedition MAX
123.1 cu. ft.
This comparison highlights the near-identical max cargo of the Escape and Bronco Sport , the significant step up to the Explorer, and the class-leading space of the Expedition and Expedition MAX.
Ford SUV Fuel & Energy Efficiency Leaders
For buyers prioritizing running costs, these models lead the pack.
Model
Powertrain
Efficiency Rating
Escape Plug-in Hybrid
2.5L PHEV
101 MPGe / 37-mile EV range
Mustang Mach-E
All-Electric
~90–100+ MPGe / 300+ mi. range
Escape Hybrid
2.5L HEV
42 City / 36 Hwy MPG
Tech & Safety: Co-Pilot360, SYNC, and BlueCruise Explained
Ford Co-Pilot360™ (Standard): This is the base-level safety suite found on most models. It typically includes Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert, a Lane-Keeping System, and Auto High-Beam Headlamps.
Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist+ (Upgrade): This is the next step up, adding features like Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering. For 2025, this suite is now standard on the Bronco Sport.
Ford BlueCruise (Available): This is Ford’s true hands-free highway driving technology. It is available on select trims of the 2026 Explorer, 2025 Expedition, and 2025 Mustang Mach-E. The latest versions include Automatic Lane Change.
SYNC® 4/4A: The current-generation infotainment system, known for its speed and wireless Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™. It is standard on the 2025 Bronco Sport and 2025 Mustang Mach-E.
SYNC® 5 & Ford Digital Experience: This is the newest infotainment system, built with Google integration. It is rolling out on the 2026 Explorer and 2026 Bronco.
Learn more about Ford’s commitment to safety in our Ford Co-Pilot360™ safety suite guide.
Conclusion: Which Ford SUV Should You Buy?
Choosing the right Ford SUV comes down to a clear assessment of your non-negotiable needs.
If you need 8 seats or to tow over 5,000 lbs: Your only choice is the 2025 Ford Expedition. It is the only 8-passenger SUV and the only model that can tow up to 9,600 pounds. The only remaining question is whether you need the cavernous cargo room of the Expedition MAX.
If you have a family of 4-6: The 2026 Ford Explorer is the modern, tech-forward, and capable default. It offers 7-passenger seating, a standard 5,000-pound tow rating, and the latest BlueCruise hands-free technology. If you’re torn between these two, see our Explorer or Expedition: Choosing Your 3-Row SUV breakdown.
If you want maximum efficiency: The 2026 Ford Escape Hybrid or Plug-In Hybrid is the most fuel-efficient. If you’re ready to go all-electric, the 2025 Mustang Mach-E offers 300+ miles of range and zero tailpipe emissions.
If you crave adventure: The choice is clear. The 2025 Bronco Sport is the perfect “daily-driver-plus” for weekend adventures, offering comfort and capability. The 2026 Bronco is the “no-compromise” off-road icon for the true enthusiast who wants the most capable 4×4 Ford builds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best Ford SUV for a family?
A: For large families (up to 8), the 2025 Ford Expedition is the best, offering the most space and 8-passenger seating.29 For families of 6 or 7, the 2026 Ford Explorer is the most popular and versatile choice, blending 3-row seating with modern tech.
Q: What is the difference between the Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport?
A: The Bronco Sport is a unibody crossover (built on a car platform) designed for everyday driving and weekend adventures. It is a 4-door, 5-seat vehicle. The Bronco is a larger, body-on-frame (truck-based) SUV with removable doors and roof, built for extreme off-roading. It comes in 2-door (4-seat) and 4-door (5-seat) versions.
Q: Which Ford SUV has the best towing capacity?
A: The 2025 Ford Expedition has the highest towing capacity, at 9,600 lbs when equipped with the 4×4 drivetrain and Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package.
Q: Which Ford SUV has the best fuel economy?
A: The all-electric 2025 Mustang Mach-E is the most efficient, offering over 100 MPGe.10 For a gas/hybrid, the 2026 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid is the leader at 101 MPGe, with a 37-mile all-electric range. The 2026 Ford Escape Hybrid is the most efficient traditional hybrid, at 42 MPG city.
Q: Which Ford SUVs have a 3rd row?
A: The 2026 Ford Explorer (standard 7-passenger seating) and the 2025 Ford Expedition (standard 8-passenger seating) are Ford’s two 3-row SUVs.
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