Episode Details

Ford Motor Company reported its February 2026 U.S. sales this week, with the company reporting an overall decline of 5.5% relative to February 2025. Including Lincoln, Ford sold 149,962 vehicles in February, down from 158,675 a year ago. The disappearance of models like the Ford Edge crossover and F-150 Lightning electric pickup truck didn’t help Ford’s cause, but the manufacturer did see a significant increase in demand for its large SUVs. In fact, Ford models in this category registered their best February sales in 26 years.

Large Ford SUVs Thrive

While Ford’s smaller SUVs struggled last month, the same can’t be said of the larger Expedition and Explorer. Here’s a look at Ford’s SUV sales for February 2026.

The only smaller Ford SUV that had a strong February was the Bronco Sport. Following the Edge, the Ford Escape also went out of production late last year, which clearly impacted February’s sales figures.

The Expedition and Explorer had a great February, with the Explorer being the fastest-growing Ford SUV when compared to last year. In 2025, the Explorer was the best-selling three-row SUV in the country, and buyers still can’t get enough of its powerful V6 and bold looks.

The F-Series managed 49,160 sales last month, down by 13.92%, but this was still Ford’s best-selling model line by far.

Ford Has Abandoned The Budget Segment—But That Will Change

Over the last few years, Ford has discontinued nearly all its cheapest models. These include the Fiesta, EcoSport, Edge, and Escape. The brand hasn’t had a small sedan or hatchback on sale for years, leaving buyers with nothing but the Maverick if they want a new Ford at under $30,000.

While the success of its large SUVs and trucks is expected to continue, Ford is missing out on a crucial segment of the market, where brands like Toyota, Kia, and Honda are thriving. Ford dealers said recently they want a sedan and crossover at under $30,000, so it’s just as well that Ford is planning five new affordable models by 2030.

This group of cheap Fords will include a midsize electric pickup, more efficient hybrids, and a possible new sedan. They’ll answer the need for simpler, cheaper new cars at a time when average car prices are regularly exceeding $50,000. This