2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select vs 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line
$1,380 less vs 3 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $1,380 price gap, 187 vs 180 hp, 25 vs 28 MPG.
The CX-5 2.5 S Select leads on $1,380 less. The Escape ST-Line leads on 3 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 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select | 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $30,380 | $31,760 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 1.5L I3 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 199 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 32 |
| Combined MPG | 25 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.3 gal | 15.7 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,550/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,679 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 106.2" | 106.7" |
| Length | 180.1" | 181.2" |
| Width | 72.6" | 74.1" |
| Height | 66.1" | 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 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select and 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select starts at $30,380, $1,380 less than the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line at $31,760. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $24/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,380 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line?
The 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $180/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select or 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line?
The 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line rates 28 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select or 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select produces 187 hp, 7 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 186 lb-ft. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line uses a 1.5L I3 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select bigger than the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line?
The 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line is 1.1″ longer at 181.2″ vs 180.1″. The 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line has a 0.5″ 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: Mazda trims, Mazda CX-5 trims, Ford trims, Ford Escape trims
The CX-5–Escape Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the CX-5 and Escape compare. The $1,380 gap is about $24/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line uses a 1.5L I3 Turbo. The 7 hp difference (187 vs 180) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
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 fuel savings help offset the higher sticker price, but it takes roughly 7.7 years to break even. Most buyers will not hold the vehicle that long.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select when you want to keep $1,380 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $180/year less on fuel. At $24/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 Mazda or Ford or any dealership.