2026 Toyota RAV4 LE vs 2026 Ford Escape Base
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Escape Base starts at $31,995, $1,405 less. RAV4 LE leads with 39 MPG. RAV4 LE makes 219 hp (+39).
| Spec | 2026 Toyota RAV4 LE | 2026 Ford Escape Base |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $33,400 +$1,405 | $31,995 Save $1,405 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L Hybrid | 1.5L Turbo |
| Horsepower | 219 hp +39 hp | 180 hp 39 hp less |
| Torque | 163 lb-ft | 190 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | 8-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 41 +13 | 28 13 less |
| Hwy MPG | 38 +4 | 34 4 less |
| Combined MPG | 39 +9 | 30 9 less |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 37.5 cu ft | 33.5 cu ft |
| Screen | 10.5" | 13.2" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | No | No |
| Moonroof | No | No |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,700 lbs | 3,455 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.9" | 106.7" |
| Length | 181.5" | 180.5" |
| Wheels | 17" Alloy | 17" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | TSS 3.0 | Co-Pilot360 |
RAV4 LE or Escape Base?
Both are competitive. Escape Base has a lower entry price, RAV4 LE leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Toyota RAV4 LE and 2026 Ford Escape Base?
Which gets better gas mileage, the RAV4 LE or Escape Base?
Should I buy a 2026 Toyota RAV4 or Ford Escape?
Which is more reliable, the Toyota RAV4 or Ford Escape?
Is the Toyota RAV4 bigger than the Ford Escape?
What is the cost of insurance for the RAV4 LE vs Escape Base?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Toyota RAV4 LE?
Who Should Choose the RAV4 LE
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 LE appeals to buyers who prioritize what Toyota does best: practicality and resale value. At $33,400, it positions itself as the more powerful option.
Fuel economy is a clear strength here — 39 combined MPG means lower running costs over the life of the vehicle. Toyota ownership comes with industry-leading reliability and resale value. Compare more: RAV4 LE vs RAV4 XLE, RAV4 LE vs RAV4 XLE Premium, RAV4 LE vs RAV4 Adventure.
Who Should Choose the Escape Base
The 2026 Ford Escape Base is the better fit for buyers who want a lower entry price.
Ford's approach to this suv emphasizes raw capability and a wide range of configurations. If that aligns with your priorities, the Escape Base deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $1,405 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The RAV4 LE is positioned higher, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the RAV4 LE makes 39 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, 39 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 39 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 Toyota 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.