2025 Ford Escape ST-Line vs 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE
$2,785 less and 3 mpg better vs 21 more hp and 22 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $2,785 price gap, 180 vs 201 hp, 28 vs 25 MPG.
The Escape ST-Line leads on $2,785 less, 3 MPG better. The Tiguan SE leads on 21 more hp, 22 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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 ST-Line | 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $31,760 | $34,545 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I3 Turbo | 2.0L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 201 hp |
| Torque | 199 lb-ft | 221 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 22 |
| Highway MPG | 32 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.7 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,550/yr | $1,750/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 3,801 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.7" | 109.9" |
| Length | 181.2" | 184.4" |
| Width | 74.1" | 73.0" |
| Height | 66.0" | 66.5" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 12yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line and 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line starts at $31,760, $2,785 less than the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE at $34,545. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $49/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line?
The 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,785 in your pocket and the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $180/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE is the stronger pick when you prefer the Volkswagen approach to the compact SUV segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line or 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line rates 28 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line or 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE produces 201 hp, 21 more than the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line at 180 hp. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE also leads in torque at 221 lb-ft vs 199 lb-ft. The 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line runs a 1.5L I3 Turbo; the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line bigger than the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE is 3.2″ longer at 184.4″ vs 181.2″. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE has a 3.2″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Ford Escape comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Volkswagen Tiguan offers 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Ford trims, Ford Escape trims, Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Tiguan trims
Escape vs Tiguan: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line and 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $2,785 gap is about $49/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line runs a 1.5L I3 Turbo; the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE has 21 more hp (201 vs 180), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Escape vs Tiguan
The 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line saves roughly $180/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $900. The 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line when you want to keep $2,785 in your pocket and the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE when you prefer the Volkswagen approach to the compact SUV segment. At $49/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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 Volkswagen or any dealership.