Ford Kuga’s European Exit Confirmed for 2026, Electric Explorer EV Set as Successor

Ford faces a significant challenge in Europe, needing to operate with a limited number of high-volume models. The Ford Focus has already disappeared from its lineup, a move attributed to past management decisions in Europe and approved by American leadership.

The Ford Kuga is now also nearing its exit from the catalog, despite its significant success since launch. German sources reported on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, that the American variant, the Escape, ceased production at the Louisville factory. The more luxurious Lincoln Corsair also ended production at the same facility. Both models, which were cost-effective for the manufacturer, will no longer reach dealerships, leading to discontent among some.

One year, that’s how much life the Ford Kuga has left in the European market.

The Ford Kuga will say goodbye in 2026; the replacement is electric

Ford’s management does not prioritize dealer agreement regarding model discontinuations. This became evident with the discontinuation of the Fiesta, EcoSport, and Focus in Europe. CEO Jim Farley’s strategy, declared in spring 2023, focuses on high-performance and “more fun” models. He referred to certain SUVs as “low-performance” in terms of vehicle capabilities, not commercial success, including the Kuga and Escape.

This strategy extends beyond the American market, reaching Europe and other regions. Reports over two and a half years ago already detailed the Escape’s end-of-life cycle. This directly impacts the European Kuga. The third-generation Kuga will conclude its production by late 2026. No combustion engine replacement is planned for the model.

Ford’s European lineup narrows, with Puma and Tourneo as key offerings

The Ford Kuga already has a virtual successor: the Explorer EV. Ford had previously denied this, despite earlier warnings about the Kuga’s future. The Explorer EV requires significant promotion in the coming months. It should fill the gap left by the combustion and hybrid Kuga models by 2027.

The Explorer EV offers key features for customers: its size, a 536-liter trunk capacity, modern design, advanced onboard technology, and a 600-kilometer range. Ford must leverage these qualities to convince customers, who will no longer find the Kuga in showrooms in just over a year. The Puma and Tourneo models will become Ford’s primary options in Europe. The Kuga remains a profitable model for Ford, generating an 8% profit margin. Farley is confident that models like the Bronco and Mustang will maintain this margin, but achieving this, especially in Europe, seems challenging. Read more about Ford’s European strategy here.