Ford Working on a Seven-Seat Version of the Escape?

Author: Daniel-Rufiange Published: 1/1/0001

The Ford Escape has a new look for 2020, and by general consensus it's more interesting and diverse than ever, notably thanks to hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants joining the lineup. It's also roomier inside than the model it replaces, despite outwards appearances. And yet, the moves have apparently not been enough to get sales off the ground.

Normally, when a vehicle is renewed, its popularity increases – but that hasn't been the case with the Escape since it was upgraded last fall. And the pending arrival of the Bronco Sport, which is built on the same platform, likely won't help.

Now, Ford has apparently gone into solution mode for its compact SUV. According to the trustworthy Ford Authority website, the automaker is developing a three-row version of its SUV, capable of accommodating up to seven occupants. The stretched Escape would be built on the same platform as the regular version, but it would benefit from an extended wheelbase, which implies a change in the exterior design. We can expect a more-conventional roofline that would add volume for the occupants of the back seat.