- Ford expands hands-free BlueCruise to the Kuga SUV in Europe.
- 2026 model year brings no design or interior feature changes.
- Escape stays on sale for 2026 but doesn’t offer BlueCruise tech.
Ford has unveiled the 2026 model year updates for the Kuga in Europe, even as its American counterpart, the Escape, edges toward retirement. The big news is the addition of Ford’s hands-free BlueCruise system, which is also making its way into the smaller Puma and the Ranger PHEV starting this spring.
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The current Kuga generation first launched in 2019, though the facelift didn’t arrive in Europe until 2024. For 2026, Ford hasn’t made any exterior or interior design changes. The trim lineup still includes the sporty ST-Line versions with their bodykits, as well as the Active trims that feature aluminum-look skid plates and side moldings.
Expanding Driver Tech
The dashboard setup remains unchanged, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster paired with a 13.2-inch infotainment screen running the latest SYNC 4 system. The key update is the inclusion of BlueCruise, a system that enables hands-off, eyes-on driving along pre-mapped “Blue Zone” motorways. According to Ford, these zones now account for around 95 percent of highways across 16 European countries.
Classified as Level 2 ADAS, the BlueCruise system manages steering, acceleration, braking, and lane positioning, with an infrared camera making sure that the driver remains focused on the road.
Optional, Standard, or Subscription
BlueCruise is bundled into the Driver Assistance Pack, which comes standard on the high-spec ST-Line X and Active X trims. It’s also available as an option on Titanium and regular ST-Line models. Starting in April 2026, customers can access the system through a one-time purchase or through monthly and annual subscription plans. Every eligible trim will also include a three-month trial period.
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The powertrain lineup of the compact SUV in Europe includes a full-hybrid 2.5-liter option in FWD and AWD flavors, and a plug-in hybrid with a combined output of 240 hp (179 kW / 243 PS).
2026 Ford Kuga
A Different Ending For Escape
The 2026 Ford Escape is still listed on Ford’s US website, though this is widely expected to be its final model year before discontinuation. The Escape received a refresh in late 2022 and looks broadly similar to its European sibling, save for minor tweaks like different bumper trim, wheel styles, and amber turn signals.
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In the US, the Escape comes equipped with Ford’s Co-Pilot360 advanced driver assistance suite, which includes features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Centering, and Blind Spot Information. However, it doesn’t get BlueCruise, which remains exclusive to pricier models in North America such as the Mustang Mach-E and Explorer.
Where You Can Still Buy One
For 2026, the Escape won’t be sold in California, Massachusetts, Oregon, New York, Washington, or Vermont due to local emissions rules. Buyers in other states will still have access to the existing range of gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains.
Despite remaining a relatively high-volume seller, the Escape is being phased out in favor of the Bronco Sport and the Maverick. The Louisville Assembly Plant in Kentucky is currently in the process of retooling for next-generation electric vehicles focused on affordability. Among those there will be a new electric truck which is set to arrive in 2027 with a $30k starting price.
2026 Ford Escape
