The Ford Escape arrives with thoughtful design changes that enhance its cargo capabilities while maintaining the compact SUV’s reputation for versatility. Whether you’re packing for a weekend adventure or hauling everyday items, the intelligent storage solutions offer flexibility for various lifestyles.

Cargo Dimensions: More Than Meets the Eye

The Escape boasts impressive cargo capacity across its lineup. With all seats in place, the standard gasoline models provide 1062 litres of cargo space, sufficient for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. Fold the rear seats down, and that expands dramatically to 1852 litres, offering enough room for larger items like bicycles, furniture, or camping gear.

Hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants have slightly different measurements due to the placement of their batteries. These models offer 974 litres of storage behind the second row and 1,722 litres with the seats folded – a modest reduction that most users will hardly notice in daily use.

Innovative Storage Solutions

The Escape cargo area delivers real functionality beyond just numbers. The latest model includes a dual-level cargo floor that you can adjust to create a flat load surface when the seats are folded or a deeper well for taller items. A hidden storage compartment underneath offers secure space for valuables or emergency supplies.

The 60/40 split rear seats add another layer of flexibility. Unlike many competitors, the second row can slide forward and backward up to 15 centimetres, allowing passengers to choose between maximum legroom or increased cargo capacity without folding seats.

Accessible Loading Features

The Escape makes loading and unloading easier with several thoughtful features. Available on most trims is a hands-free power liftgate that opens with a gentle foot movement beneath the rear bumper, particularly useful when approaching the vehicle with arms full of packages or groceries.

The cargo area opening is wide with a low lift-over height of just 74 centimetres, making it easier to load heavy or bulky items. Inside the cargo area, tie-down points and bag hooks help secure items during transport, while available cargo nets and organizers provide additional organization options.

Cargo Space Across Trims

Cargo capacity remains consistent across most trim levels, with the base Active, stylish ST-Line, and premium Platinum all offering the same fundamental space. However, the way this space is appointed differs:

• The Active trim includes a basic cargo cover and floor mats.
• ST-Line models feature a sportier cargo area finish with distinctive red stitching on the storage compartments.
• The Platinum trim elevates the experience with premium materials, additional lighting, and a stainless steel scuff plate at the cargo opening.

All models include a standard cargo management system with adjustable tie-downs, but higher trims add additional convenience features like grocery bag hooks and storage nets.

Practical Real-World Capacity

The cargo area holds four large suitcases with all seats in use or two mountain bikes (front wheels removed) when you fold the rear seats. Families will appreciate that a full-size stroller fits easily behind the second row, with extra room for shopping bags.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the maximum interior length with front passenger seat and rear seats folded reaches 248 centimetres – enough to accommodate most camping gear or even serve as a sleeping platform for car camping adventures.

Towing Capability Complements Cargo Space

When interior space isn’t enough, the Escape offers impressive towing capabilities that extend its utility. The 1.5L EcoBoost models can tow up to 2,000 pounds, while the 2.0L EcoBoost increases that capacity to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped with the available Class II Trailer Tow Package. Even the hybrid and plug-in hybrid models maintain respectable towing ratings of 680 kilograms.

Facts About the 2025 Ford Escape Cargo Space

1. The sliding second-row seats in the Escape can move up to 15 centimetres, creating what Ford engineers internally call the “cargo compromise zone,” allowing passengers to sacrifice a bit of legroom for additional parcels.

2. The cargo floor height was specifically designed to align perfectly with a standard shopping cart, making it easier to transfer groceries directly from cart to cargo area.

3. During development, Ford tested the cargo space using 3D-printed replicas of over 100 common household items to ensure real-world functionality beyond simple volume measurements.

4. The carpeting in the cargo area of higher trim levels uses a special stain-resistant treatment developed initially for commercial aircraft.

5. The rear seats can be folded from the cargo area using convenient pull straps, a feature inspired by customer feedback from previous generations.

Questions and Answers About the 2025 Ford Escape

What is the cargo capacity of the Ford Escape with all seats in place?

The standard model offers 1062 litres of cargo space with all seats in place.

How much cargo space is available when the rear seats are down?

With rear seats folded, the cargo capacity expands to 1852 litres in gasoline models.

Do hybrid models have the same cargo capacity as gasoline models?

No, hybrid and plug-in hybrid models have slightly less space at 974 litres behind the second row and 1722 litres with seats folded, due to battery placement.

Can the rear seats in the Escape be partially folded?

Yes, the rear seats feature a 60/40 split configuration, allowing one section to be folded while keeping the other upright for passengers.

How does the sliding second row affect cargo space?

The sliding second row can move up to 15 centimetres, allowing passengers to increase cargo space without having to fold the seats.

What is the maximum length of an item that can fit in the Escape?

With the front passenger seat and rear seats folded, items up to 248 centimetres long can fit inside the cabin.

Does the Escape have a power liftgate?

Yes, a hands-free power liftgate is available on most trims, operating with a foot movement beneath the rear bumper.

Are there storage compartments under the cargo floor?

Yes, this SUV features an adjustable cargo floor with storage space underneath for smaller items.

How tall is the cargo opening on the Escape?

The cargo opening height accommodates items up to 74 centimetres tall without tilting.

Can the Escape tow a trailer if cargo space isn’t enough?

Yes, it can tow between 680 and 1,588 kilograms, depending on the engine choice and equipment.