2025 Ford Escape Platinum vs 2025 Subaru Forester Touring
On paper, the 2025 Ford Escape Platinum wins on $5,685 less, 70 more hp, 102 more lb-ft torque. The 2025 Subaru Forester Touring has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $5,685 price gap, 250 vs 180 hp, 26 vs 28 MPG.
The Escape Platinum leads on $5,685 less, 70 more hp. The Forester Touring leads on 2 MPG better. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Ford Escape Platinum | 2025 Subaru Forester Touring |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $35,910 | $41,595 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 Turbo | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 250 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 32 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.7 gal | 16.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 3,664 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.7" | 105.1" |
| Length | 181.2" | 183.3" |
| Width | 74.1" | 72.0" |
| Height | 66.0" | 68.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Ford Escape Platinum and 2025 Subaru Forester Touring?
The 2025 Ford Escape Platinum starts at $35,910, $5,685 less than the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring at $41,595. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $100/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Ford Escape Platinum?
The 2025 Ford Escape Platinum is the stronger pick when you want to keep $5,685 in your pocket and the 2025 Ford Escape Platinum covers your needs; the extra 70 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Touring is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $115/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Ford Escape Platinum or 2025 Subaru Forester Touring?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Touring rates 28 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Ford Escape Platinum or 2025 Subaru Forester Touring?
The 2025 Ford Escape Platinum produces 250 hp, 70 more than the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring at 180 hp. The 2025 Ford Escape Platinum also leads in torque at 280 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2025 Ford Escape Platinum runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring uses a 2.5L flat 4.
Is the 2025 Ford Escape Platinum bigger than the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Touring is 2.1″ longer at 183.3″ vs 181.2″. The 2025 Ford Escape Platinum has a 1.6″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Ford trims, Ford Escape trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Forester trims
Escape vs Forester: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Ford Escape Platinum and 2025 Subaru Forester Touring sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $5,685 gap adds up to $100/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Ford Escape Platinum runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 2025 Ford Escape Platinum has 70 more hp (250 vs 180). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Ford Escape Platinum adds 102 more lb-ft of torque (280 vs 178), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Escape vs Forester
The 2025 Subaru Forester Touring saves roughly $115/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $575.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Ford Escape Platinum when you want to keep $5,685 in your pocket and the 2025 Ford Escape Platinum covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $115/year less on fuel. At $100/month more, the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Ford or Subaru or any dealership.