2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT vs 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line
On paper, the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line wins on $2,380 less, 2 MPG better, 21 more lb-ft torque. The 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 187 vs 180 hp, 26 vs 28 MPG.
The Escape ST-Line leads on $2,380 less, 2 MPG better, 21 more lb-ft torque. 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 Hyundai Tucson XRT | 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $34,975 | $32,595 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 1.5L I3 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 199 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 24 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 32 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.3 gal | 15.7 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | $1,550/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Wheelbase | 108.5" | 106.7" |
| Length | 182.7" | 181.2" |
| Width | 73.4" | 74.1" |
| Height | 66.3" | 66.0" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT and 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line?
The 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line starts at $32,595, $2,380 less than the 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT at $34,975. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $42/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT?
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT is the stronger pick when you prefer the Hyundai approach to the compact SUV segment.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line?
The 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,380 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $115/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT or 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line?
The 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line rates 28 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT or 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line?
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT 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 Hyundai Tucson XRT runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line uses a 1.5L I3 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT bigger than the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line?
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT is 1.5″ longer at 182.7″ vs 181.2″. The 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT has a 1.8″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Hyundai Tucson comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Ford Escape offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Tucson trims, Ford trims, Ford Escape trims
The Tucson–Escape Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Tucson and Escape compare. The $-2,380 gap is about $42/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line uses a 1.5L I3 Turbo. The 7 hp difference (187 vs 180) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
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.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT when you prefer the Hyundai approach to the compact SUV segment. Choose the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line when you want to keep $2,380 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line 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 Hyundai or Ford or any dealership.