Why buyers in six US states won’t be able to purchase the final 2026 Ford Escape

American motorheads excited for the final model of one of its flagship series might have to check their zip codes, as the 2026 Ford Escape won’t be sold in six US states.

It’s always a sad day when we see some staple series roll off the assembly line for the last time, especially all-American models from Ford.

As the brand shifts towards a more electrifying lineup in 2027 and beyond, with brand-new models, the Ford Escape has faced the same treatment as the popular Focus and Fiesta models.

But with the Ford Escape hoping to go out with grace and prowess, it’s going to be met with harsh stop signs in six US states.

VISIT SBX CARS – View live supercar auctions powered by Supercar Blondie

Why you can’t buy the 2026 Ford Escape in six states

The Ford Escape has become a staple in the brand’s lineup for generations, carting American families around the country for hundreds of thousands of miles.

However, the series is set to be laid to rest and placed within a museum, with the 2026 Ford Escape being the swansong vehicle.

The final hoorah won’t be available in six American states, though, which have now already had their last model.

Despite maintaining the exact same powertrain as the 2025 model, and almost identical units to the Bronco Sport and Maverick (which are all allowed in the 50 States), the 2026 version has not passed emission regulations.

As the world becomes hellbent on reversing the damage we have made with climate change, new cars are expected to significantly cut down our pollution, making for a cleaner environment.

This has led to a number of new legislations that ensure cars’ emissions are capped.

The 2026 Ford Escape has failed to be certified by one governing body, which has led sales being banned in six states.

Ford fans might have expected this after months of speculation, but it was confirmed in today’s news.

Which states is the Ford Escape 2026 not being sold in?

Unfortunately, for any states that fall under the California Air Resources Board (CARB), the 2026 Ford Escape will not be coming to you, as the brand has not filed for certification.

Massachusetts, Oregon, New York, Washington, and Vermont all use the CARB, which means the Escape won’t be out for its victory lap there either.

Ford has been stuck in a polarizing position this year, as CEO Jim Farley tries to orchestrate an attempt to match the quality and price of the Chinese rivals, in anticipation of their arrival in the US.

While brand-new EVs are on the way, including a new truck and an all-electric luxury sports car to take the pressure off the Mustang fleet, the brand is actually dialling back existing EVs.

Namely, the F-150 Lightning has been announced to be leaving the fully-electric tag behind as it places an unnamed engine in the hood, to make a new ‘long range’ hybrid.

But the real loser here is the 2026 Ford Escape, as it looks like the brand is conceding that the six states will be without the final model.

DISCOVER SBX CARS: The global premium car auction platform powered by Supercar Blondie