2025 Ford Escape vs. the Competition

It’s certainly easy to understand the widespread popularity of the compact SUV segment. These capable vehicles offer a unique mix of value, versatility, and comfort that simply can’t be found on other types of vehicles. Naturally, the proven Ford Escape has probably made its way to the very top of your wish list as you start your search for the ultimate compact SUV. Still not convinced that the Escape is the best choice for your hard-earned money? Sarchione Ford of Alliance is here to help! We’ve created this competitive comparison in which the Ford Escape goes up against two of the most established names in its class – the Chevrolet Equinox and Honda CR-V. Which one will emerge with the victory? We’ll crunch the numbers and find out together!

In our first matchup, let’s see how the Ford Escape compares to the Chevrolet Equinox. Despite sharing nearly identical starting prices, these two equivalent trim levels couldn’t be more different. It all starts with performance, where the Ford Escape is the clear favorite thanks to greater horsepower and torque. Even more impressive is the fact that the Escape tops the Equinox across all three EPA-estimated measurements of fuel economy, made possible by its sophisticated 8-speed automatic transmission. It also has the advantage when it comes to towing capacity and sheer number of different powertrain options including hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants. More power and more efficiency? Sounds like a winner to us!

Shifting our focus to the interiors of both models, the Ford Escape continues to shine. It offers more front legroom along with a power driver’s seat to help find your ideal driving position. The Equinox only offers manual adjustments for the front row of seats. The Escape is also the better choice for your next road trip thanks to greater cargo space and standard dual-zone automatic climate control. Finally, your passengers will be impressed by the available 10-speaker B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® inside the Ford Escape. 

In our second matchup, let’s see how the proven Ford Escape fares against the formidable Honda CR-V. In this comparison, we’ve selected upper trim levels of both models to showcase some additional advantages of the Escape. Comparing equivalent trim levels, choosing Ford instead of Honda will save you over $1,000 right out of the gate. Once again, performance is clearly a strong suit of the Escape thanks to more horsepower, more torque, and a more advanced 8-speed automatic transmission that helps you get the most out of every mile.

Choosing the Escape also means you’ll receive an impressive collection of features that will cost you hundreds if not thousands more at Honda. Highlights include the class-exclusive SecuriCode keypad, Emergency 911 Alert, a wi-fi hotspot, over-the-air software updates, and a heated steering wheel to make chilly winter mornings much more pleasant. The Ford Escape offers more front headroom and legroom than the Honda CR-V as well. Finally, Honda can’t match the robust term of roadside assistance coverage provided by Ford.