2026 Ford Escape ST-Line vs 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks
On paper, the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line wins on $4,350 less, 8.5″ longer. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $4,350 price gap, 180 vs 181 hp, 28 vs 27 MPG.
The Escape ST-Line leads on $4,350 less, 8.5″ longer. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line | 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $32,595 | $36,945 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I3 Turbo | 1.5L I3 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 181 hp |
| Torque | 199 lb-ft | 190 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 32 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.7 gal | 16.0 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,550/yr | $1,600/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Wheelbase | 106.7" | 105.1" |
| Length | 181.2" | 172.7" |
| Width | 74.1" | 74.3" |
| Height | 66.0" | 70.2" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line and 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks?
The 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line starts at $32,595, $4,350 less than the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks at $36,945. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $77/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line?
The 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,350 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $56/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks?
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks is the stronger pick when you prefer the Ford approach to the compact SUV segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line or 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks?
The 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line rates 28 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line or 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks?
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks produces 181 hp, 1 more than the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line at 180 hp. The 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line also leads in torque at 199 lb-ft vs 190 lb-ft.
Is the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line bigger than the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks?
The 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line is 8.5″ longer at 181.2″ vs 172.7″. The 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line has a 1.6″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Explore more: Ford trims, Ford Escape trims, Ford Bronco Sport trims
The Escape–Bronco Sport Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Escape and Bronco Sport compare. The $4,350 gap adds up to $77/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
Both run the same 1.5L I3 Turbo engine. The 1 hp difference (181 vs 180) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line saves roughly $56/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $280.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line when you want to keep $4,350 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks when you prefer the Ford approach to the compact SUV segment. At $77/month more, the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Ford or any dealership.