Choosing the right vehicle means finding something that genuinely fits how you live, work, and play here in Central Texas. The 2026 Ford SUV lineup brings diverse options designed for everything from navigating daily commutes to handling weekend adventures at Lake Waco.
What Makes the 2026 Ford SUV Lineup Stand Out in Waco
Each Ford SUV comes equipped with advanced safety systems that make sense for both city driving and highway cruising. Driver-assist technologies help with everything from lane keeping to adaptive cruise control, giving you extra confidence whether you’re heading to work or traveling across the state.
Infotainment systems have gotten smarter, with improved connectivity options that keep everyone entertained on longer trips. What really sets these vehicles apart is the variety of powertrains available. From fuel-efficient hybrids to fully electric options, Ford has built flexibility into every corner of this lineup.
Spacious interiors with thoughtful design details make even the compact models feel roomy enough for daily life. These vehicles are designed around real families, real commutes, and real Texas weather.
Compact SUVs for Waco Commuters: 2026 Ford Escape and Bronco Sport
The 2026 Ford Escape delivers efficient performance with hybrid options that save money at the pump. The Hybrid achieves 39 mpg combined, while the Plug-in Hybrid offers 37 miles of all-electric range. With up to 65.4 cubic feet of cargo space and 3,500 pounds of towing capacity (2.0L EcoBoost), it handles both daily errands and weekend projects comfortably.
The Escape works particularly well for professionals balancing meetings, errands, and family needs. Its technology package enhances your driving experience with features that actually make sense for Central Texas conditions.
If you lean toward something with more character, the Bronco Sport brings rugged styling with genuine off-road capability. Standard AWD and up to 238 horsepower with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine give it trail-ready performance while remaining comfortable for daily commutes. Its compact size makes parking downtown manageable without compromising capability when you want to escape the city.
Both models offer advanced safety features sized right for Waco’s mix of urban streets and country roads.
Three-Row Family SUVs: 2026 Ford Explorer and Expedition
The 2026 Explorer delivers seating for up to seven passengers with a balanced combination of comfort and capability. Its 119.1-inch wheelbase provides legitimate third-row legroom, while powertrains ranging from 300 to 400 horsepower offer up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity. The 2.3L RWD option achieves 20/29 mpg for efficient family transportation.
Technology features keep everyone entertained during longer drives, while driver-assist systems make navigating and parking easier. This family SUV handles well for its size, giving you confidence whether merging onto I-35 or maneuvering through tight parking lots.
For families needing maximum space, the Expedition excels with seating for up to eight passengers and massive cargo capacity. Its twin-turbo 3.5L V6 delivers up to 440 horsepower and an impressive 9,600 pounds of towing capability. Available in standard (209.9 inches) or MAX (221.9 inches) lengths, it handles everything from camping trips to boat towing with confidence.
Both models prioritize safety with comprehensive driver-assist technologies including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking.
Adventure and Electric Options: 2026 Ford Bronco and Mustang Mach-E
The 2026 Ford Bronco features exceptional off-road capabilities with advanced terrain management systems that adapt to different environments. The standard 2.3L EcoBoost produces 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, while available upgrades include a 2.7L V6 and the Raptor model with 418 horsepower.
Removable doors and roof panels bring you closer to nature, while the interior handles mud, sand, and whatever else you bring back from adventures. It’s rugged without being uncomfortable, capable without being complicated.
The Mustang Mach-E represents Ford’s electric future, combining sporty performance with eco-friendly technology. Its electric powertrain delivers instant torque for effortless acceleration, while the range and rapid charging capabilities make it practical for real-world use.
The Mach-E’s modern interior features a 13.2-inch curved display and premium materials that create an environment where every drive feels special. For drivers wanting to reduce environmental impact without sacrificing performance, this delivers on both fronts.
Quick Comparison: Which 2026 Ford SUV Fits Your Waco Lifestyle
Here’s how the 2026 Ford SUV lineup stacks up:
| Model | Seating | Engine Options | Towing Capacity | Cargo Space (max) | Key Benefits | Ideal For |
| Escape | 5 | Plug-in Hybrid, Hybrid, 1.5L & 2.0L EcoBoost | Up to 3,500 lbs | 65.4 cu ft | Fuel efficiency, compact size | Commuters, small families |
| Bronco Sport | 5 | 1.5L EcoBoost, 2.0L EcoBoost | Up to 2,700 lbs | 60.0 cu ft | Off-road capability, rugged design | Adventure seekers, outdoor use |
| Explorer | 6-7 | 2.3L & 3.0L EcoBoost | Up to 5,000 lbs | 85.8 cu ft | Family-friendly, tech features | Growing families, daily versatility |
| Expedition | 7-8 | Twin-turbo 3.5L V6 (400-440 hp) | Up to 9,600 lbs | 104.0 cu ft | Maximum space and towing | Large families, heavy towing needs |
| Bronco | Varies | 2.3L EcoBoost (300 hp), 2.7L V6 (330 hp), Raptor 3.0L (418 hp) | Up to 4,500 lbs | 83.0 cu ft | Trail-ready, rugged capability | Off-road enthusiasts |
| Mustang Mach-E | 5 | Fully electric | Up to 3,300 lbs | 60.0 cu ft | Electric powertrain, tech innovation | Eco-conscious, tech-savvy drivers |
The right choice depends on your specific situation. City dwellers prioritizing fuel efficiency will appreciate the Escape’s hybrid options. Families needing three rows choose between the Explorer’s everyday usability and the Expedition’s maximum capacity. Adventure seekers find the Bronco’s off-road credentials compelling, while eco-conscious drivers should consider the Mach-E.
Think through your typical week. How often do you need third-row seating? Do you regularly tow or haul large items? These practical questions matter more than any feature list.
Explore the Complete 2026 Ford SUV Lineup at Bird Kultgen Ford
Since 1936, we’ve served Central Texas with a commitment that goes beyond selling vehicles. As a fourth-generation family business, we understand that choosing a vehicle means finding something that truly fits your life.
Visit us to explore our current SUV inventory and experience each model firsthand with test drives that let you feel the differences. Our team focuses on helping you make informed decisions based on your lifestyle needs.
Contact us at 254-666-2473 or stop by our location at 1701 W Loop 340 in Waco. We’re open Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 6:30pm and Saturday from 9am to 5pm, ready to help you find the ideal match in the 2026 Ford SUV lineup.
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