2026 Escape ST-Line Elite

The most content-rich sport trim, with the usual engine split

ST-Line Elite carries ST-Line Select's standard-AWD, two-engine structure to its logical endpoint: the AWD hybrid at $37,210 undercuts the AWD 2.0L EcoBoost at $38,935 by $1,725, the widest gap of any trim in the lineup between the two engine choices. Everything else about the trim is identical regardless of which engine sits under the hood — the 13.2-inch touchscreen, Co-Pilot360 Assist+'s adaptive cruise control, the 10-way power driver's seat, wireless charging pad, and 19-inch Ebony machined-face wheels are all standard, not optional.

What ST-Line Elite adds over ST-Line Select beyond the standard tech: the bigger display (13.2 inches versus Select's smaller screen), the jump to 10-way power seating from Select's fewer adjustment points, and the wireless charging pad. It's the trim built for buyers who want the sport styling cues from lower ST-Line trims but with the technology load closer to what Platinum offers.

The Premium Technology Package

ST-Line Elite is one of two trims (alongside Platinum) where the optional Premium Technology Package is available, priced around $1,910. It bundles a 360-degree camera system, B&O premium sound, a head-up display, front parking sensors, reverse brake assist, and ActiveX quilted seats with red accent stitching that match the trim's sport identity better than Platinum's ActiveX treatment does. For a buyer who's already decided on ST-Line Elite for the styling, this package is where most of the remaining decision-making happens.

Cargo space and the engine tradeoff

Like every other trim offering both engines, ST-Line Elite's cargo capacity depends on which one you pick: 65.4 cubic feet max with the 2.0L EcoBoost, 60.8 with the hybrid. Given the $1,725 price gap in the hybrid's favor plus the mileage advantage (42/36/39 versus 23/31), the cargo tradeoff is the main reason a buyer would choose the EcoBoost here at all.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between ST-Line Elite and ST-Line Select?

ST-Line Elite steps up the technology: a larger 13.2-inch display, more power-adjustable driver's seat positions, and a wireless charging pad that Select doesn't include. Both share standard AWD and the same two-engine pricing structure.

Is the Premium Technology Package worth it on ST-Line Elite?

It depends on what you'll use — the 360-degree camera and front parking sensors add real parking-assist value, and the head-up display is a genuine convenience on longer highway stretches. At roughly $1,910, it's a meaningful but not extreme addition on top of an already well-equipped trim.

Why does the hybrid save the most money on this specific trim?

Ford's pricing puts the largest hybrid-versus-EcoBoost gap in the lineup right here — $1,725 — compared to smaller gaps on ST-Line Select and Platinum. There's no single stated reason from Ford beyond how each trim's option content is priced independently.

Compare or configure

See how ST-Line Elite stacks against Platinum, which offers different content at a lower price point, or check current new inventory for available configurations.