If you're shopping for a new compact SUV, it's only natural to compare 2025 Ford Escape and Honda CR-V models—two of the most popular picks in the segment. Both offer strong features, but which one delivers the best value for your daily drive? Let’s break it down.
Key Takeaways
- Ford Escape models are $29,490 to $39,005: 2025 Honda CR-V trims start at $31,495 and go up to $36,395.Prices effective May 1, 2025
- Is this the last year of the Ford Escape? There has been rumor of its replacement with an as yet unnamed EV. (Stay tuned!)
- The Escape and Honda CR-V have no new changes for 2025.
- The Escape offers two engine options to the Honda CR-V’s one.
Which Compact SUV Offers More Value: 2025 Ford Escape
Since this might be the Escape's final year, it comes without any major updates. The lineup includes the following five trims, with prices starting at:
- Active: $29,490
- ST-Line: $30,485
- ST-Line Select: $35,695
- Platinum: $36,510
- ST-Line Elite: $39,005
The Honda CR-V comes in fewer trims and at slightly higher prices:
- LX: $31,495
- EX: $33,745
- EX-L: $36,395
Which Compact SUV Offers More Engine Options: 2025 Ford Escape
The Ford Escape offers two powertrain options to suit different driving needs. The base model features a 181-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine, available with either front- or all-wheel drive. For more power, there’s also a 250-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which comes with standard all-wheel drive. Both engines pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Honda CR-V sticks with one engine option: a 190-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder. It mates to a CVT and comes with the choice of front- or all-wheel drive.
Which Compact SUV Gets Better Fuel Economy: 2025 Ford Escape
The non-hybrid Ford Escape gets great gas mileage— 27 mpg/city and 34 mpg/highway. The CR-V’s non-hybrid powertrain gets 28 mpg/city and 34 mpg/highway on front-wheel-drive; however, all-wheel drive drops those numbers a little.
Which Compact SUV Gets Better Towing: 2025 Ford Escape
The Escape can tow up to 3,500 pounds with 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and an available Class II Trailer Tow Package. The Honda CR-V doesn’t match those numbers—it has a towing capacity of 1500 pounds when properly equipped.
Which Compact SUV Offers Better Tech: 2025 Ford Escape
The Escape keeps things user-friendly with an 8.0-inch touchscreen on the lower trims, while some higher trims come standard with a big 13.2-inch display. If you want the larger screen on a lower trim, you can upgrade. All versions run on Ford’s well-reviewed Sync 4 system and include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The CR-V doesn’t quite match that setup. Its LX and EX trims come with a smaller 7-inch screen, and only the EX-L gets a 9.0-inch touchscreen. Like the Escape, it offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto across the board.
Which Compact SUV Should You Choose: 2025 Ford Escape
Both the 2025 Ford Escape and Honda CR-V are formidable rivals, but the Escape stands out with more powertrain choices, better towing, and less cost. If you want more versatility in your compact SUV, the Escape’s got you covered. See it today at Jarrett-Gordon Ford in Davenport!