2026 Subaru Forester Touring vs 2026 Ford Escape Platinum
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Forester Touring starts at $41,495, $500 less. Escape Platinum leads with 39 MPG. Escape Platinum makes 210 hp (+30).
| Spec | 2026 Subaru Forester Touring | 2026 Ford Escape Platinum |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $41,495 Save $500 | $41,995 +$500 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L Flat-4 | 2.5L Hybrid |
| Horsepower | 180 hp 30 hp less | 210 hp +30 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 173 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | eCVT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 29 11 less | 40 +11 |
| Hwy MPG | 33 4 less | 37 +4 |
| Combined MPG | 30 9 less | 39 +9 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 29.6 cu ft | 33.5 cu ft |
| Screen | 11.6" | 13.2" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Panoramic | Panoramic |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,650 lbs | 3,830 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 106.7" |
| Length | 182.3" | 180.5" |
| Wheels | 18" Alloy | 19" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | EyeSight | Co-Pilot360 |
Forester Touring or Escape Platinum?
Both are competitive. Forester Touring has a lower entry price, Escape Platinum leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring and 2026 Ford Escape Platinum?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Forester Touring or Escape Platinum?
Should I buy a 2026 Subaru Forester or Ford Escape?
Which is more reliable, the Subaru Forester or Ford Escape?
Is the Subaru Forester bigger than the Ford Escape?
What is the cost of insurance for the Forester Touring vs Escape Platinum?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring?
Who Should Choose the Forester Touring
The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring appeals to buyers who want strong value without overspending. At $41,495, it undercuts the Escape Platinum by $500.
Subaru ownership comes with a distinct ownership proposition. Compare more: Forester Base vs Forester Premium, Forester Base vs Forester Sport, Forester Base vs Forester Touring.
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 $500 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 30 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, 30 more horsepower, larger wheels 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 30 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 Subaru 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.