2025 Honda CR-V EX-L vs 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line
On paper, the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line wins on $4,740 less, 20 more lb-ft torque. The 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 190 vs 180 hp, 28 vs 28 MPG.
The Escape ST-Line leads on $4,740 less, 20 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 4 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 4 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 Honda CR-V EX-L | 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,500 | $31,760 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 1.5L I3 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 190 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 179 lb-ft | 199 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 32 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.0 gal | 15.7 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,550/yr | $1,550/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,635 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 106.3" | 106.7" |
| Length | 184.8" | 181.2" |
| Width | 73.5" | 74.1" |
| Height | 66.5" | 66.0" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L and 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line?
The 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line starts at $31,760, $4,740 less than the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L at $36,500. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $84/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L?
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L is the stronger pick when the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.
Who should choose the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line?
The 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,740 in your pocket and the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L or 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line?
Both achieve 28 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L or 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line?
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L produces 190 hp, 10 more than the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line at 180 hp. The 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line also leads in torque at 199 lb-ft vs 179 lb-ft. The 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line uses a 1.5L I3 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L bigger than the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line?
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L is 3.6″ longer at 184.8″ vs 181.2″. The 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line has a 0.4″ 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: Honda trims, Honda CR-V trims, Ford trims, Ford Escape trims
- 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The CR-V–Escape Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the CR-V and Escape compare. The $-4,740 gap adds up to $84/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line uses a 1.5L I3 Turbo. The 10 hp difference (190 vs 180) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L when the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute. Choose the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line when you want to keep $4,740 in your pocket and the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line covers your needs.
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 Honda or Ford or any dealership.