Ford Escape VS Ford Explorer: A Comprehensive Comparison

Size and Seating Capacity

The Ford Escape is a compact SUV ideal for urban driving and smaller families. With seating for up to five passengers, the Escape offers a cozy yet practical interior. Its compact dimensions make parking in tight spaces a breeze and allow you to navigate Scottsboro’s streets effortlessly. Despite its smaller size, the Escape doesn’t compromise on comfort or functionality, providing a well-rounded vehicle for everyday use.
The Ford Explorer is a midsize SUV that offers more interior space and versatility. With seating for up to seven passengers, the Explorer is ideal if you have a larger family or need extra room for passengers and cargo. Its larger size translates to ample cargo space, making it perfect for long road trips or outdoor adventures around Alabama. The Explorer’s spacious design ensures that everyone travels in comfort, with enough room to stretch out and enjoy the journey.

Performance and Engine Options

The 2025 Ford Escape offers various engine options designed for fuel efficiency and performance, which is ideal for daily commuting and city driving. The standard engine is a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder EcoBoost, generating 180 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque. If you’re looking for more power, the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine delivers 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The Escape offers both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, providing versatility based on your driving needs. It features a maximum towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped with the available Class II Trailer Tow Package.
The Explorer is ideal if you need extra towing power and off-road performance, offering more powerful engines. The standard engine is a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder, which produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. For even more power, the Explorer offers a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 that delivers 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. The Explorer’s intelligent four-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and control on various terrains, making it suitable for both city driving and off-road adventures. The vehicle has a maximum towing capacity of 5,600 pounds.

Interior Features and Comfort

The interior of the 2025 Ford Escape is designed with comfort and ergonomics in mind. It features convenient amenities such as adjustable seating, ample legroom, and user-friendly controls. The Escape’s infotainment system includes a 13.2-inch LCD capacitive touch screen with swipe capability and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. These features ensure that you stay connected and entertained on the go. The Escape’s interior is both functional and stylish, offering a pleasant driving environment for you and your passengers.
The new Ford Explorer offers a spacious, upscale interior that takes comfort to the next level. It boasts premium materials and advanced comfort features, ensuring an enjoyable journey. Luxury options include leather-trimmed seating, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The Explorer’s advanced multimedia technology, such as the SYNC 4 infotainment system, provides enhanced voice recognition and navigation capabilities. These features create a sophisticated, comfortable cabin to ensure an enjoyable journey for both you and your passengers.

Technology and Safety Features

The Ford Escape offers advanced technology features to improve your driving experience. The SYNC 4 infotainment system provides seamless mobile connectivity and access to your favorite apps via the center stack touch screen. The Escape includes the standard Ford Co-Pilot360, which features the blind-spot information system and lane-keep assist. The vehicle is also equipped with a 360-degree camera system for a clearer view of its surroundings.
The Explorer features the SYNC 4 infotainment system with enhanced voice recognition and navigation capabilities. It also includes the Ford+Alexa App, which allows you to access Amazon Alexa features while on the road. The Explorer is equipped with the Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package, which includes driver-assistance technologies such as adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. Optional features include a 360-degree camera with a split-view display and reverse brake assist.

Pricing and Value

The 2025 Ford Escape is a great choice in the compact SUV segment due to its competitive pricing and value. The base model starts at $27,995, with various additional trim levels available to suit different budgets and preferences. These include the following:
• Active: $27,995.
• ST-Line: $28,990.
• ST-Line Select: $32,230.
• ST-Line Elite: $36,540.
• Platinum: $35,545.
• Plug-in Hybrid: $38,400.

Each trim level offers unique features, such as the ST-Line Select’s 13.2-inch LCD capacitive touch screen and wireless charging pad. The Escape offers four powertrain options: the gas-powered 1.5-liter or 2.0-liter EcoBoost, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid, providing flexibility for different driving preferences.
The 2025 Ford Explorer offers great value in terms of size, performance capabilities, and advanced features. The base model starts at $39,755, with a variety of trim levels and premium options available to enhance its value proposition. These include the following:
• Active: $39,755.
• ST-Line: $44,515.
• ST: $55,505.
• Platinum: $51,655.

Each trim level of the new Ford Explorer offers specific features and capabilities. For example, the ST-Line has 20-inch machined aluminum wheels with painted pockets, while the Platinum has a distinctive grille with a satin aluminum finish. The Explorer’s roomy interior can seat up to seven passengers, highlighting its practicality.

Find Your Perfect Ford SUV at Harbin Ford

Both the 2025 Ford Escape and Ford Explorer have unique strengths and cater to different needs. The Escape is perfect if you’re looking for a compact, fuel-efficient SUV for daily commuting and have a small family. The Explorer offers more space, power, and advanced features if you have a larger family or go on regular adventures. To find the right Ford SUV for your lifestyle, visit us at Harbin Ford in Scottsboro, Alabama. Our team can help you test-drive both models and find the ideal Ford SUV that meets your needs. Contact us today.