2026 Ford Escape ST-Line vs 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL
2 mpg better and 21 more lb-ft torque vs $530 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 180 vs 187 hp, 28 vs 26 MPG.
The Escape ST-Line leads on 2 MPG better, 21 more lb-ft torque. The Tucson SEL leads on $530 less. 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 ST-Line | 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $32,595 | $32,065 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I3 Turbo | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | 199 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 24 |
| Highway MPG | 32 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.7 gal | 14.3 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,550/yr | $1,700/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 3,640 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.7" | 108.5" |
| Length | 181.2" | 182.7" |
| Width | 74.1" | 73.4" |
| Height | 66.0" | 66.3" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line and 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL starts at $32,065, $530 less than the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line at $32,595. That gap is small enough that monthly payments are nearly identical. Focus on which vehicle fits your life, not the sticker.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line?
The 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $115/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL is the stronger pick when you want to keep $530 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line or 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
The 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line rates 28 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line or 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL produces 187 hp, 7 more than the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line at 180 hp. The 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line also leads in torque at 199 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line runs a 1.5L I3 Turbo; the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line bigger than the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL is 1.5″ longer at 182.7″ vs 181.2″. The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL 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 Hyundai Tucson 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, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Tucson trims
How the Escape and Tucson Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line ($32,595) and 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL ($32,065) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-530 price gap works out to less than $10/month on a typical loan, so the cost difference is negligible. Pick on fit, not on price.
Powertrain: Escape vs Tucson
The 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line runs a 1.5L I3 Turbo; the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL uses a 2.5L I4. The 7 hp difference (187 vs 180) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line saves roughly $115/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $575.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $115/year less on fuel. Choose the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL when you want to keep $530 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL 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 Hyundai or any dealership.