Ford Discontinues Escape and Lincoln Corsair Models by 2026

Ford Motor Company (F 1.00%) has announced the discontinuation of two popular crossovers—the Escape and Lincoln Corsair—by the end of the 2026 model year. The decision marks the end of an era for the Escape, a vehicle credited with helping Ford recover from the 2008 financial crisis. Despite strong sales—93,805 units sold in the U.S. through July, outpacing the Bronco and Bronco Sport—the automaker is pivoting away from these models without immediate replacements.

Investors are wary. Exiting key segments without a clear succession plan risks leaving gaps in Ford's lineup, a misstep reminiscent of Stellantis' struggles after discontinuing the Jeep Cherokee. The Corsair, Lincoln's second-best-selling model, faces a similar fate. While consumers can still purchase the 2026 models next year, the long-term strategy remains uncertain.