2025 Ford Escape vs. Honda CR-V

Compact SUVs are extremely popular, and the 2025 Ford Escape and Honda CR-V lead the pack. Both vehicles offer impressive performance, advanced technology, and plenty of space for families. But which one is the better choice if you're looking to buy a compact SUV in Birmingham, Alabama? In this in-depth car review comparison, our team at Stivers Ford of Birmingham will compare key differences between the 2025 Ford Escape vs. Honda CR-V to help you decide.

Performance and Engine Options Compared

The 2025 Ford Escape comes with multiple powertrain choices, including a standard turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower and an available 2.0-liter turbo-four delivering 250 horsepower. Ford also offers a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid variant if you're looking for fuel efficiency first.

The Honda CR-V, on the other hand, comes with a standard 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine generating 190 horsepower. Honda also offers a hybrid option, which pairs a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors for a combined output of 204 horsepower. When it comes to power and variety, the Escape has a slight edge because it offers more engine choices and performance.

Safety Features and Ratings

Moving on to compare the safety of the Ford versus Honda, both have a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features. The 2025 Escape comes standard with Ford Co-Pilot360, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The Honda CR-V includes Honda Sensing. This features similar tech such as adaptive cruise control, a Collision Mitigation Braking System, and a Road Departure Mitigation System. Both models have received high safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and five stars overall from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, making them solid choices for families.

Interior Comfort and Technology

The Ford Escape boasts a modern and comfortable cabin. It comes with a standard 8-inch or available 13.2-inch touch-screen infotainment system. Connect your smartphone to SYNC 4 technology via wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Premium trims add synthetic-leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a B&O sound system.

The Honda CR-V has a spacious and upscale interior. It features a smaller standard 7-inch or available 9-inch touch screen. Honda's interface is user-friendly, though some may find Ford's SYNC 4 system more advanced. It also comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but a wireless connection is only available with the larger screen on the top trim.

Exterior Design and Aesthetic Appeal

The 2025 Ford Escape has a sleek and sporty design with a bold front grille, LED lighting, and an athletic look and feel. The Honda CR-V has a more rugged and traditional look with a bold front and a strong body profile. Design preference is, of course, subjective, but the Escape's modern, aerodynamic look may appeal more to city drivers, while the CR-V's tougher appearance caters to those who prefer a more classic SUV design.

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Fuel efficiency is a strong suit for both models. The EPA has rated the turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder Ford Escape with front-wheel drive as the most efficient, getting 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. Switching to all-wheel drive drops those numbers to 26 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with all-wheel drive gets 23 mpg in the city, 31 mpg on the highway, and 26 mpg combined.

The Honda's gas powertrain provides competitive fuel economy. The front-wheel-drive CR-V with the turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder gets 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. Choosing all-wheel drive drops those numbers slightly. For more information about the CR-V's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.

Space and Cargo Capacity

Both SUVs offer generous interior space for up to five passengers. The CR-V very slightly edges out the Escape in cargo capacity, providing up to 39.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 76.5 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Escape offers 37.5 cubic feet behind the second row and 65.4 cubic feet in total cargo volume. Passengers in both models will enjoy plenty of legroom and headroom for short or long journeys.

Consumer and Expert Reviews

Experts praise the Ford Escape for its variety of powertrain options, user-friendly technology, and fun driving dynamics. Consumers appreciate its responsive handling and available hybrid models. The Honda CR-V is well-regarded for its reliability, spacious interior, and refined ride quality. However, some critics note that its infotainment system isn't as advanced as the competition.

Honda CR-V vs. Ford Escape Pros and Cons

Here are some pros and cons for the Escape vs. CR-V to help you decide:

Making Your Decision: Which Is Right for You?

If you're looking for a compact SUV with multiple engine options, a plug-in hybrid variant, and a more modern design, the 2025 Ford Escape may be the better choice. However, if you want more interior space, reliability, and a more rugged SUV appearance, the 2025 Honda CR-V is still a strong contender. Ultimately, your decision will depend on personal preferences, driving needs, and the features that matter most to you. The best way to decide which is best for you is with a test drive. Contact our Stivers Ford of Birmingham dealership to test-drive the new Ford Escape today.

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