The Escape crossover is redesigned. The popular vehicle brought fresh styling, along with new trim levels. The 2025 Ford Escape isn’t going to add big things. We didn’t see any changes under the hood, and that’s where upgrades are possible. Still, the crossover features the most efficient hybrid system on the market. Only if Honda or Toyota make big moves and improve their transmissions will Ford’s engineers have work to do. Otherwise, 2025 will be a remnant.
There are a few reasons why you should buy the 2025 Ford Escape. The crossover is quite roomy for its size and class. Owners praise the ride quality and controls. The hybrid system returns 40 mpg combined. Still, there is room for improvement. For example, engineers could work on handling. Also, an automatic transmission isn’t as smooth as fans might expect. A plug-in hybrid is also there to provide electric range. On the other hand, the gasoline base unit is not going to impress.
2025 Ford Escape Specs
Under the hood of the 2025 Ford Escape is a turbocharged three-cylinder engine. The company replaced a naturally aspirated four-vessel unit with a smaller block. A 1.5-liter mill can produce 180 hp and 190 lb-ft. More importantly, engineers managed to improve gas mileage. If you select front wheel drive, the Escape can do 28/34 mpg. An AWD consumes more fuel and returns 26/31 mpg. An 8-speed automatic gearbox sends power to the wheels.
You can get much better numbers with a hybrid system. A 2.5-liter gasoline engine isn’t much more powerful, putting out 200 hp. But, fuel economy is 44/37 mpg. There is a CVT instead of an 8-step box. A hybrid drive is available for the ST line. A PHEV is upgrading the powertrain with 21 hp and electric range. You can cover 37 miles with the plug-in hybrid model. A special trim level is offered, as well as CVT transmission and front-wheel drive. The main rival is the Toyota Rav4 Prime. Compared to the 2025 Ford Escape PHEV, it is more powerful (302 hp). When it comes to gas mileage, the Blue Oval crossover is better at 40 mpg, compared to 38 mpg.
Finally, there’s a turbocharged engine for those who love crunchy acceleration. A 2.0-liter mill can make 250 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. Again, an 8 speed gearbox is a power router and distributes power to all wheels. Acceleration time from 0 to 60 mph is reduced to 5.7 seconds.
2025 Ford Escape Ratings
The new Escape did away with an old lineup and introduced new trim levels. The Base model is the cheapest, but it’s definitely not worth $30,000. Cloth upholstery, steel wheels, 8-inch screen… so nothing special and the price is quite high. The Active model is just $1,500 more and adds alloy wheels, a power liftgate, chrome trim, keyless entry and USB ports, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Three ST models let you upgrade the powertrain in the first place. Additionally, these packages add specific features to make the trip more comfortable. The ST-Line is there with 18-inch wheels, a sports steering wheel and roof rails. Some interior parts are covered by vinyl. Skid plates protect the underbody. The ST-Line Select uses AWD only, adds fog lights, heated mirrors, steering wheel and seats. If you go for the ST line, then the Elite model comes with the most equipment. The larger wheels and infotainment screen dominate at first glance. You’ll also find a special lighting system, automatic windshield wipers, memory settings for the driver’s bucket, ventilated front seats, and navigation. Safety is also reinforced thanks to adaptive cruise control, evasive steering assistance, parking sensors, automatic brakes, 360-degree camera…
As stated, the PHEV model uses a unique package of features. Mainly thanks to the powertrain, it is the most expensive version of the crossover. Still, you get a mix of Elite and Select packages from the ST-Line family.
Colors
The six standard colors for the entry-level 2025 Ford Escape will be Atlas Blue Metallic, Agate Black Metallic, Iconic Silver Metallic, Carbonized Gray Metallic, Vapor Blue Metallic, and Oxford White. Cinnabar Red Metallic is a premium color that costs $500. Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat is a $500 option for higher finishes. The Star White Metallic Tri-coat costs 2 times as much. Atlas Blue Metallic is free.
Prices
The base MSRP for the 2025 Ford Escape will be $30,000. That’s a tall tag for an unimpressive entry-level model. Active and ST-Line are much better options. Still, a few years ago, we could buy a three-row SUV for $30,000, like ford flex. Other versions of the crossover range from $30k to $40k. Only the PHEV costs more than that. Well, others can go to the bar too if you start upgrading them with optional packages. Some of the options may drive the trailer or a sound system. There’s an automatic park package, leather upholstery, and a panoramic sunroof of notable optional equipment.
