Ford Escape hybrid and PHEV SUV discontinued in New Zealand

Ford Escape hybrid and plug-in hybrid models have been quietly discontinued from Ford New Zealand’s local lineup.

The change means Ford will now offer just three SUV models locally: the large Everest, the electric Mustang Mach-E, and the small mild-hybrid Puma.

The latest Escape range was offered with either a 2.5-litre petrol hybrid or a 2.5-litre plug-in hybrid powertrain. The latter could travel up to 69km on electric power and was the first plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model offered by Ford New Zealand. The last-generation SUV also shared its platform with the now-discontinued Focus hatchback.

The first-generation Escape launched in 2001 and was one of the first car-based compact SUVs offered in New Zealand. In 2004 it also became the first SUV globally to offer a hybrid drivetrain, though a hybrid Escape wasn’t offered locally until late 2021.

According to Motor Industry Association (MIA) data, 364 Escapes were registered in 2025, representing 1.4 per cent of sales in the sub-$60,000 SUV market. Registrations were also down 34.6 per cent compared with the 557 Escapes registered in 2024.

A spokesperson for Ford New Zealand confirmed to CarExpert the Escape will no longer be offered in 2026, aligning the local range with markets such as Australia, where the SUV hasn’t been sold since 2023.

For buyers still keen to get their hands on a new Escape, a handful of vehicles remain available around the country, and Ford New Zealand says it remains committed to supporting existing customers into the future.