2026 Ford Escape Platinum vs 2025 Kia Sportage SX-Prestige
63 more hp and 102 more lb-ft torque vs $1,150 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 250 vs 187 hp, 26 vs 25 MPG.
The Escape Platinum leads on 63 more hp, 102 more lb-ft torque. The Sportage SX-Prestige leads on $1,150 less. 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 | 2026 Ford Escape Platinum | 2025 Kia Sportage SX-Prestige |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $37,940 | $36,790 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 250 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | 23 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 27 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.7 gal | 14.3 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 3,809 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.7" | 108.5" |
| Length | 181.2" | 183.5" |
| Width | 74.1" | 73.4" |
| Height | 66.0" | 66.3" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum and 2025 Kia Sportage SX-Prestige?
The 2025 Kia Sportage SX-Prestige starts at $36,790, $1,150 less than the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum at $37,940. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $20/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum?
The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $65/year less on fuel; the extra 63 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2025 Kia Sportage SX-Prestige?
The 2025 Kia Sportage SX-Prestige is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,150 in your pocket and the 2025 Kia Sportage SX-Prestige covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum or 2025 Kia Sportage SX-Prestige?
The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum rates 26 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum or 2025 Kia Sportage SX-Prestige?
The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum produces 250 hp, 63 more than the 2025 Kia Sportage SX-Prestige at 187 hp. The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum also leads in torque at 280 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Kia Sportage SX-Prestige uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum bigger than the 2025 Kia Sportage SX-Prestige?
The 2025 Kia Sportage SX-Prestige is 2.3″ longer at 183.5″ vs 181.2″. The 2025 Kia Sportage SX-Prestige has a 1.8″ 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 Kia Sportage offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Ford trims, Ford Escape trims, Kia trims, Kia Sportage trims
How the Escape and Sportage Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum ($37,940) and 2025 Kia Sportage SX-Prestige ($36,790) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-1,150 gap is about $20/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Escape vs Sportage
The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Kia Sportage SX-Prestige uses a 2.5L I4. The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum has 63 more hp (250 vs 187). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 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.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum saves roughly $65/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $325.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $65/year less on fuel. Choose the 2025 Kia Sportage SX-Prestige when you want to keep $1,150 in your pocket and the 2025 Kia Sportage SX-Prestige 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 Ford or Kia or any dealership.