Previewing the 2026 Ford SUV Lineup

SUVs are the most popular type of vehicle in America, now accounting for over half of new vehicle sales. However, Elgin drivers who love SUVs have distinct vehicle needs, whether it’s as a daily driver, rugged adventure rig, or eco-conscious road trip steed. The Blue Oval is here for every SUV enthusiast, as its 2026 SUV lineup includes six unique machines. Schaumburg Ford is the leading Ford dealer near Elgin, and we have all these SUVs ready to help you live your best life.

Regardless of the nameplate, every 2026 Ford SUV has a few things in common. They’re reliable, come with advanced technology, and are available in many trim levels, so you can choose the features that suit your needs. Beyond these shared traits, Ford SUVs cater to distinct audiences, and it’s important to start with the right model. In this preview, we’ll look at the highlights of each and decide which SUV is right for you.

Ford Escape: Eco-Friendly Urban Commuting

If you’re a young professional or someone else who spends a lot of time downtown in the Jewel of the Midwest, this compact SUV is the ticket to a great driving experience. It’s efficient to keep your gas bills down, and it has two rows of spacious seating for friends and family. There is also a lot of cargo area, and smooth, nimble manners let Elgin drivers calmly navigate North State Street traffic or hop on Interstate 90 for a weekend cruise. It’s even capable of light off-roading, and you can get modern infotainment like wireless charging and a heads-up display.

Are you looking to maximize fuel efficiency while enjoying the convenience of traditional fill-ups? The Escape is available in hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, which achieve up to an EPA-estimated 40 combined MPG, providing over 560 miles of range for full-day drives. Conversely, those who want some excitement can opt for the Ford Escape ST-Line, which roars with a 250 hp turbo I-4 engine and can tow up to 3,500 lbs for your getaways.

Ford Bronco Sport: Practicality with a Rugged Edge

Those who spend an equal amount of time navigating the Elgin city bustle and getting away from it will love the 2026 Bronco Sport. It shares a platform with the Escape, but has been beefed up to handle more challenging off-road trails and terrain. The Bronco Sport comes with standard 4WD, locking rear and center differentials, a HOSS off-road suspension, and a terrain management system. Some trim levels include all-terrain tires, and the Sasquatch Package adds even more, such as a twin-clutch differential, steel bumpers, and recovery hooks.

Despite the off-road focus, the 2026 Bronco Sport also has strong on-road dynamics and decent fuel mileage, making it a fine everyday option when you’re not climbing mountains or fording brooks. The vintage boxy exterior styling cues are countered by a lavish modern interior with a 13.2-inch control touchscreen and an available power moonroof. Its combination of capability, fine driving, and aesthetics gives the Bronco Sport an undeniable “it factor.”

Ford Bronco: Retro Off-Roading with Modern Design

Is going off the beaten path what you live for? There’s no touching the 2026 Ford Bronco, a true body-on-frame midsize SUV designed to conquer nature. This rugged rider is equipped with everything a serious off-roader needs straight from the factory, including part-time 4WD, an electronic two-speed transfer case, increased ground clearance, hill descent control, and a removable roof and doors. Upgrading to high-end models reveals even more features, such as a locking front differential and a Pro Power Onboard generator. The 2026 Bronco Raptor is the beastliest off-road SUV you can buy.

This is also where Ford SUVs take a big step up in power. Three engine options range from a 2.3L turbo I-4 with 300 hp to the 3.0L turbo V6 418-hp behemoth sitting inside the Bronco Raptor. For true old-school swashbuckling, the 2.3L engine can be purchased with a true manual transmission. Top-notch standard tech and an independent front suspension to improve the on-road experience round out the unquestioned king of Blue Oval off-roading.

Ford Explorer: Family-Friendly Adventure

Few vehicles are more aptly named than the 2026 Ford Explorer, continuing its tradition of being a versatile SUV that Elgin drivers use for everything from doctor’s appointments to driving cross-country. This three-row crossover is an excellent SUV for big families, but it can be configured to go outside the box. The Explorer has an available 400-hp engine, a towing capacity up to 5,000 lbs, and over 85 cu.ft. of cargo space. The interior is filled with soft-touch materials, and the Explore is the first SUV in the Ford lineup that offers BlueCruise hands-free highway driving.

New for 2026, Ford has introduced the Explorer Tremor, which equips the SUV with an off-road suspension, a limited-slip differential, skid plates, and other robust hardware. Do you prefer a more sophisticated or sporty full-size SUV for driving around the City in the Suburbs? Check out the ST and Platinum that offer premium convenience features. The standard Ford Digital Experience infotainment software, with its ability to support video streaming and games, is the crowning piece.

Ford Mustang Mach-E: Electrified Power

Go all-electric with the heritage of Ford’s iconic pony car packed in a compact SUV. The 2026 Mustang Mach-E is the most powerful Ford SUV and has the smallest carbon footprint, making it irresistible to forward-thinking Elgin adrenaline enthusiasts. A variety of battery and motor combinations are available, which can produce up to 480 hp and an EPA-estimated driving range up to 320 miles. Get maximum muscle car power and personality with the Mach-E GT or take this famous name off-road by choosing the Mach-E Rally.

Tech is great on all Ford SUVs, but the Mustang Mach-E takes it to the next level. A 15.5-inch touchscreen, BlueCruise 1.5, three years of connected navigation, and adaptive cruise control on all models are just the start. Passenger and cargo space are strong for the compact EV segment, making the 2026 Mustang Mach-E as comfortable as it is exhilarating. It’s also safe, earning the highest possible crash testing honors from the IIHS and NHTSA.

Ford Expedition: The Do-it-All Large SUV

When you need to haul a lot of people and things to a lot of places, pile them into the 2026 Ford Expedition for a cozy drive. All three seating rows are spacious enough to accommodate grown adults, and the standard wheelbase model offers up to 108.5 cu.ft. of storage space. If that isn’t enough, the long-wheelbase Expedition MAX increases capacity to 123.1 cu.ft. The choice between a 400-hp or 440-hp turbo V6 engine easily propels you along, and the updated suspension delivers solid on-road performance.

The body-on-frame design makes the Expedition an SUV for more than just humans, pets, and suitcases. Its towing capacity is nearly 10,000 lbs, making the Expedition a legitimate option to bring campers and boats to your favorite spot. It easily goes off-road as well, especially when you pick the Expedition Tremor. Another highlight is the massive 24-inch driver information center, displaying all the data you could possibly need.

Find the Right SUV at Schaumburg Ford

There are plenty of great 2026 Ford SUVs, but selecting the one that matches your lifestyle will give you the best results, and so will working with the right dealership. Schaumburg Ford is the ultimate Ford SUV headquarters for Elgin-area drivers, offering a huge selection and providing a stress-free shopping experience. Our knowledgeable team will help you select the ideal Ford SUV, and we accept all financing applications, regardless of your credit history. Once you’ve purchased your new vehicle, get it cared for at our award-winning certified Ford service and parts center.

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