The Ford Escape and Subaru Forester are long-time, popular rivals in the compact SUV scene, but which one actually brings the most value for your everyday drive? We’re look at the differences between the 2025 Escape and 2025 Forester to compare pricing, power, efficiency, and capability, especially since one of these nameplates might be driving into the sunset soon.
Key Takeaways
- The 2025 Ford Escape starts at $30,645 and tops out at $39,005; Subaru’s Forester costs a bit more, ranging from $31,415 to $43,015. Pricing is current as of July 2, 2025.
- This might be the final year for the Escape before Ford retires the name in favor of an EV replacement.
- While the Escape carries over unchanged, the Forester brings a few key upgrades into the new model year.
Which SUV Offers a Stronger Value for the Price?
Ford hasn’t made any changes to the Escape for 2025, likely because it’s nearing the end of the line before a rumored electric replacement steps in. That said, you still get five well-equipped trims at competitive prices:
- Active: $30,645
- ST-Line: $31,490
- ST-Line Select: $35,685
- Platinum: $36,510
- ST-Line Elite: $39,005
Subaru, on the other hand, gave the 2025 Forester a few notable upgrades, like a WRX-inspired electric power steering system and an available hands-free power tailgate.
Prices are:
- Base: $31,415
- Premium: $34,805
- Sport: $37,525
- Wilderness: $37,705
- Limited: $39,115
- Touring: $43,015
How Do They Compare on Power and Performance?
If you’re looking for variety under the hood, the Escape easily takes the lead. You get a choice of two turbocharged engines:
- A 1.5-liter three-cylinder generating 181 horsepower, available in either front- or all-wheel drive
- A 2.0-liter four-cylinder cranking out 250 horsepower, which comes standard with all-wheel drive
Both engines pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Forester sticks with a 2.5-liter flat-four engine delivering 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT and standard all-wheel drive. It’s capable, but not exactly a thrill ride.
Which SUV Saves You More at the Pump?
Fuel economy is another area where the Escape edges out a win. When equipped with the 1.5-liter engine, you can expect up to 27 mpg city and 34 mpg highway.
The Forester trails slightly, with 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway for most trims. The Sport and Touring versions dip to 25/32 mpg, which could make a difference if you do a lot of daily commuting.
Which Compact SUV Tows More?
If you plan to haul anything, the Escape is the more capable option. When equipped with the 2.0-liter engine and the Class II Trailer Tow Package, it can pull up to 3,500 pounds.
The Forester manages 1,500 pounds in most trims, although the Wilderness trim bumps that number up to 3,000 pounds, still shy of the Escape’s top number.
Why the Ford Escape Still Makes Sense
If you want a compact SUV that’s affordable, versatile, and well-equipped for daily life, the Escape checks all the boxes. You get more engine choices, better mileage, stronger towing capability, and a friendlier price range. With this possibly being its last year on the market, now’s the time to scoop one up before it’s gone. Visit us today and test drive one for yourself—you'll be glad you did!