It has been rumored for a while that 2025 is the last year of the Ford Escape, which is expected to be replaced by an as yet unnamed EV. That means if you’re interested in this small but mighty SUV, this is the time to act. But let’s take a look at how it does against one of its main competitors—the 2025 Chevy Equinox.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- This may be the last model year for the Escape. It is set to be replaced with an as yet unnamed EV.
- The Escape trims are priced at an affordable $29,490 to $39,005; the Chevy Equinox starts at about $30,000.
- Since the Escape is in its last year, there have been no new changes.
Comparing Powertrains and Towing Capacity in the 2025 Ford Escape vs 2025 Chevy Equinox
Admittedly, neither the Ford Escape or Chevy Equinox is built for extreme power, but they are reliable and get you and your family to your next destination in comfort and style.
There are two powertrain options for the Escape:
- A 181-hp (base) turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with your choice of front- or all-wheel drive.
- A 250-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with standard all-wheel drive.
- Both engines are mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Equinox has a less powerful engine—a 1.5-liter four-cylinder generating 175 horsepower. Front-wheel drive models are paired with a CVT, while AWD are mated with eight-speed automatic transmission.
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 Equinox does not come close to making those numbers—it has a max towing capacity of 1,500 pounds.
Fuel Economy Breakdown: 2025 Ford Escape vs 2025 Chevy Equinox
The non-hybrid Ford Escape gets great gas mileage— 27 mpg/city and 34 mpg/highway. The Equinox comes close—the four-wheel drive model gets 26 mpg/city and 28 mpg/highway. All wheel drive models get 29 mpg/city and 24 mpg/highway.
Comparing Tech Features in the Escape and Equinox
The Escape’s lower trims feature an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while higher trims, like ST-Line Elite and Hybrid Platinum feature a standard 13.2-inch display. (Lower trims can still be upgraded with the bigger screen.) Infotainment systems feature the latest Sync 4 interface and offer Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay capability. The Equinox’s infotainment screen is larger in lower trims, at 11.3 inches. It also features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Pricing Comparison: 2025 Ford Escape vs 2025 Chevy Equinox
This year, the Escape has five trims in its consumer line-up—there have been no new changes, as it is the last year.
- Active - $29,490
- ST-Line - $30,485
- ST-Line Select - $35,695
- Platinum - $36,510
- ST-Line Elite - $39,005
The Equinox enters its new model year (and next generation) refreshed exterior and interior styling,a new infotainment system and transmissions. Its three trims are equivalently priced.
- LT: $29,995
- Activ: $34,395
- RS: $34,395
Final Verdict: Which SUV is the Right Choice for You?
Both the 2025 Ford Escape and Chevy Equinox offer great features and solid performance, but the Escape stands out with its affordability, power and impressive fuel efficiency. The Escape is definitely worth considering, particularly in this, its last year. Take one for a test drive and see for yourself why it could be the perfect fit!