2026 Ford Escape Platinum vs 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite
$14,710 less and 6 mpg better vs 35 more hp and 10.3″ longer. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $14,710 price gap, 250 vs 285 hp, 26 vs 20 MPG.
The Escape Platinum leads on $14,710 less, 6 MPG better. The Passport TrailSport Elite leads on 35 more hp, 10.3″ longer. 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 | 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $37,940 | $52,650 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 Turbo | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 250 hp | 285 hp |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 10-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | 18 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 23 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 20 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.7 gal | 18.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 4,705 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.7" | 113.6" |
| Length | 181.2" | 191.5" |
| Width | 74.1" | 79.4" |
| Height | 66.0" | 73.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum and 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite?
The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum starts at $37,940, $14,710 less than the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite at $52,650. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $259/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 $14,710 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 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite?
The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite is the stronger pick when the extra 35 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 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite?
The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum rates 26 combined MPG, 6 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum or 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite?
The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite produces 285 hp, 35 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 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite uses a 3.5L V6.
Is the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum bigger than the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite?
The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite is 10.3″ longer at 191.5″ vs 181.2″. The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite has a 6.9″ 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: Ford trims, Ford Escape trims, Honda trims, Honda Passport trims
The Escape–Passport Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Escape and Passport compare. The $14,710 gap adds up to $259/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 2026 Ford Escape Platinum runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite uses a 3.5L V6. The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite has 35 more hp (285 vs 250), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
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.
Living With the Escape vs the Passport
The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite is 10.3″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite has a 6.9″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum when you want to keep $14,710 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite when the extra 35 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $259/month more, the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite 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 Honda or any dealership.