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2026 Hyundai Tucson Limited vs 2026 Ford Escape Platinum

Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.

2026 Hyundai Tucson

Limited

$40,300

2026 Ford Escape

Platinum

$41,995

⛽

Fuel Winner

The Escape Platinum gets 11 more MPG combined — saving hundreds in fuel costs yearly.

$1,695

Price Gap

11 MPG

MPG Diff

23 HP

HP Diff

Full Spec Comparison

Tucson Limited starts at $40,300, $1,695 less. Escape Platinum leads with 39 MPG. Escape Platinum makes 210 hp (+23).

Spec	2026 Hyundai Tucson Limited	2026 Ford Escape Platinum
Pricing
MSRP	$40,300 Save $1,695	$41,995 +$1,695
Powertrain
Engine	2.5L I4	2.5L Hybrid
Horsepower	187 hp 23 hp less	210 hp +23 hp
Torque	178 lb-ft	173 lb-ft
Transmission	8-Spd AT	eCVT
Drivetrain	AWD	AWD
Fuel Economy
City MPG	25 15 less	40 +15
Hwy MPG	32 5 less	37 +5
Combined MPG	28 11 less	39 +11
Interior & Tech
Seats	5	5
Cargo	38.7 cu ft	33.5 cu ft
Screen	10.25"	13.2"
Wireless CarPlay	Yes	Yes
Heated Seats	Yes	Yes
Moonroof	Panoramic	Panoramic
Dimensions
Curb Weight	3,660 lbs	3,830 lbs
Wheelbase	108.3"	106.7"
Length	182.3"	180.5"
Wheels	19" Alloy	19" Alloy
Safety
Safety Suite	SmartSense	Co-Pilot360

Tucson Limited or Escape Platinum?

Both are competitive. Tucson Limited has a lower entry price, Escape Platinum leads on efficiency.Test drive both.

FAQ

What is the price difference between the 2026 Hyundai Tucson Limited and 2026 Ford Escape Platinum?

The Tucson Limited starts at $40,300, which is $1,695 less than the Escape Platinum at $41,995. Both prices are manufacturer MSRP before destination, taxes, and dealer fees.

Which gets better gas mileage, the Tucson Limited or Escape Platinum?

The Escape Platinum achieves 39 combined MPG, 11 MPG more than the other. Over 15,000 miles per year at $3.50/gallon, that could save roughly $529 annually.

Should I buy a 2026 Hyundai Tucson or Ford Escape?

Both are strong choices. The Tucson Limited costs less and offers Hyundai's reputation for quality. The Escape Platinum is more powerful. Test drive both — the right choice often comes down to which one feels better to you.

Which is more reliable, the Hyundai Tucson or Ford Escape?

Both Hyundai and Ford have strong reliability records. The Hyundai Tucson has a solid track record. The Ford Escape is competitive in reliability. Both are safe bets for long-term ownership.

Is the Hyundai Tucson bigger than the Ford Escape?

The Tucson Limited measures 182.3" long with a 108.3" wheelbase and 38.7 cu ft of cargo space. The Escape Platinum is 180.5" long with a 106.7" wheelbase and 33.5 cu ft of cargo. The Tucson offers more cargo room.

What is the cost of insurance for the Tucson Limited vs Escape Platinum?

Insurance costs vary by driver, location, and coverage level, but both the Tucson Limited and Escape Platinum fall within a similar insurance bracket as suvs in the $40,300–$41,995 range. The Escape Platinum may cost slightly more to insure due to its higher MSRP. Get quotes for both before making your decision.

What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Hyundai Tucson Limited?

Beyond the $40,300 MSRP, factor in estimated fuel costs ($1,875/year at $3.50/gal), insurance ($1,200–$2,400/year varies), and maintenance. Hyundai vehicles are generally affordable to maintain, and the SmartSense safety suite can help reduce insurance premiums.

Who Should Choose the Tucson Limited

The 2026 Hyundai Tucson Limited appeals to buyers who want strong value without overspending. At $40,300, it undercuts the Escape Platinum by $1,695.

Hyundai ownership comes with excellent warranty coverage and competitive technology. Compare more: Tucson SE vs Tucson SEL, Tucson SE vs Tucson XRT, Tucson SE vs Tucson Limited.

Who Should Choose the Escape Platinum

The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum is the better fit for buyers who value what the Ford Escape brings to the table. Superior fuel economy at 39 combined MPG is a genuine running-cost advantage. With 210 hp, it also delivers stronger performance.

Ford's approach to this suv emphasizes raw capability and a wide range of configurations. If that aligns with your priorities, the Escape Platinum deserves serious consideration.

Why the Price Difference Exists

The $1,695 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Escape Platinum carries a premium, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.

Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the Escape Platinum makes 23 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, 23 more horsepower also contribute. Both are competitive within the suv market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.

What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference

Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. A 23 hp difference is noticeable during merging, passing, and hill climbs. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.

For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these suvs will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.

When Both Suvs Feel the Same

In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe suvs with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.

The choice between Hyundai and Ford often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.

Important Notice: All specifications, pricing (MSRP), fuel economy (EPA estimates), and feature information presented on TrimAtlas are compiled from publicly available manufacturer data and are provided for informational and comparison purposes only. This information may not reflect final production specifications, regional variations, available packages, dealer-installed options, or current pricing at your local dealership. Actual transaction prices, fuel economy, and equipment may vary. TrimAtlas is an independent automotive information resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or connected to any vehicle manufacturer, dealer, dealer group, or automotive brand mentioned on this site. All trademarks, model names, and brand names are the property of their respective owners and are used here solely for identification and comparison purposes. TrimAtlas does not sell vehicles, arrange financing, or provide warranties. Always verify all information directly with an authorized dealer before making any purchase decision. This content does not constitute professional advice of any kind — financial, legal, mechanical, or otherwise. Use this information at your own risk. See our full terms and disclaimers.