Electric Cars

As the Ford Escape prepares for its final production year, potential drivers are presented with an advantageous opportunity to lease the 2026 model. This vehicle, which has been a consistent presence in the compact SUV segment for nearly a quarter-century, is making its last appearance before Ford shifts its focus to other models like the Bronco Sport. Leasing offers a practical solution for those who wish to experience the Escape's renowned comfort, efficiency, and everyday utility without the long-term commitment of ownership, especially as it nears its discontinuation.

The 2026 Ford Escape continues to offer a compelling package for SUV enthusiasts. It is equipped with a choice of two turbocharged engines: a 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine generating 181 horsepower or a more robust 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower. While front-wheel drive is standard, the more powerful four-cylinder variant comes with an all-wheel-drive option. Additionally, all trims are outfitted with Ford's Co-Pilot360 driver-assistance features, enhancing safety and convenience. The interior design emphasizes practicality and spaciousness, ensuring a comfortable ride for both daily commutes and longer journeys.

Ford Credit has unveiled a range of leasing options for February, covering various trims from the economical Active to the premium ST-Line Elite. These offers typically include 48-month lease terms with an annual mileage allowance of 10,500 miles. Monthly payments vary by trim, with the Escape Active starting at $337 and the ST-Line Elite at $428, each requiring an initial payment upon signing. These lease deals are designed to be flexible, allowing drivers to enjoy the vehicle's features with manageable financial commitments. Interested individuals are encouraged to consult their local Ford dealerships for the most current details, as offers can differ based on location and other criteria.

The Ford Escape, while not always the most extravagant option among compact SUVs, remains a highly recommended choice for its blend of comfort, generous interior space, and straightforward driving experience. Leasing the 2026 model year presents a unique advantage, allowing consumers to bypass concerns about depreciation and resale value associated with purchasing a vehicle that is being phased out. With diverse trim levels available, these lease offers cater to various budgets and requirements, making this final model year an opportune moment to acquire a dependable and practical compact SUV.

Nissan has officially released the pricing details for its upcoming 2026 Rogue Hybrid, which enters the market as a rebranded iteration of the Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid. Positioned with a starting price just below $50,000, this plug-in hybrid SUV will be available in two distinct trim levels. Both variants will come equipped with all-wheel drive as a standard feature and are projected to offer an electric-only driving range of up to 38 miles on a full charge. This initial launch is anticipated to precede a new generation of the Rogue Hybrid, which will incorporate Nissan's advanced ePower series-hybrid technology, slated for release later in the current year.

The 2026 Rogue Hybrid will be offered across two primary configurations. The base model, known as the SL trim, will commence at a price point of $47,485. For those seeking enhanced features and luxury, the Platinum trim represents the premium offering, with its pricing beginning at $51,485. Both these versions prioritize driver experience and connectivity, integrating a 12.3-inch digital display for the driver and a 9-inch central touchscreen that supports wireless phone mirroring capabilities.

Opting for the Platinum trim unlocks a suite of premium additions. These include sophisticated leather seating, a state-of-the-art 10-inch head-up display for crucial driving information, an immersive Bose nine-speaker audio system, a panoramic sunroof for an expansive view, and heated rear seats, ensuring comfort for all passengers. These upgrades underscore Nissan's commitment to delivering a refined and technologically advanced driving environment in its top-tier Rogue Hybrid.

Comparing the new Rogue Hybrid's pricing with its Mitsubishi counterpart, the 2026 Outlander Hybrid's detailed pricing has yet to be fully disclosed by Mitsubishi. However, based on the current figures, the plug-in Rogue is priced marginally below its sister vehicle. The 2025 Outlander Hybrid range encompassed five trim levels, with prices ranging from $42,145 to $53,355 for its Platinum variant. This suggests a competitive positioning for Nissan's latest hybrid offering.

The current iteration of the Rogue Hybrid, essentially a rebadged Outlander Hybrid, is planned for a limited production run, spanning only a single model year. Nissan has indicated that a next-generation model, featuring its innovative series-hybrid ePower system, will be launched as a 2027 model by the end of this year. This upcoming version is expected to diversify the Rogue Hybrid's lineup with additional trim levels and broader pricing options, catering to a wider spectrum of consumer preferences and budgets.

In summary, the introduction of the 2026 Nissan Rogue Hybrid marks a significant step in Nissan's electrification strategy, offering a compelling blend of efficiency, technology, and all-wheel-drive capability at a competitive price. This model serves as an important bridge to the future, paving the way for a more advanced generation that promises to expand choices and further integrate hybrid technology into Nissan's vehicle portfolio.