2026 Ford Escape Platinum vs 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro
$9,445 less and 6 mpg better vs 41 more hp and 15.7″ longer. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $9,445 price gap, 250 vs 291 hp, 26 vs 20 MPG.
The Escape Platinum leads on $9,445 less, 6 MPG better. The Telluride EX X-Pro leads on 41 more hp, 15.7″ longer. 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 | 2026 Ford Escape Platinum | 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $37,940 | $47,385 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 Turbo | 3.8L V6 |
| Horsepower | 250 hp | 291 hp |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | 18 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 23 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 20 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.7 gal | 18.8 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | $2,200/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 4,522 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.7" | 114.2" |
| Length | 181.2" | 196.9" |
| Width | 74.1" | 78.3" |
| Height | 66.0" | 70.5" |
| 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 Telluride EX X-Pro?
The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum starts at $37,940, $9,445 less than the 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro at $47,385. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $166/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 you want to keep $9,445 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $485/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro?
The 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro is the stronger pick when the extra 41 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum or 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro?
The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum rates 26 combined MPG, 6 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum or 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro?
The 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro produces 291 hp, 41 more than the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum at 250 hp. The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum also leads in torque at 280 lb-ft vs 262 lb-ft. The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro uses a 3.8L V6.
Is the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum bigger than the 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro?
The 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro is 15.7″ longer at 196.9″ vs 181.2″. The 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro has a 7.5″ 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 Telluride 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 Telluride trims
Escape vs Telluride: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum and 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $9,445 gap adds up to $166/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 2026 Ford Escape Platinum runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro uses a 3.8L V6. The 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro has 41 more hp (291 vs 250), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Escape vs Telluride
The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum saves roughly $485/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $2,425. The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro is 15.7″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro has a 7.5″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum when you want to keep $9,445 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro when the extra 41 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $166/month more, the 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro 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 Kia or any dealership.