Sep 12, 2025

If you’re planning to get a new crossover in Tacoma, Washington, you may have a hard time deciding between the Ford Escape and the Toyota RAV4, as they both have a lot to offer. Take a look at this head-to-head 2025 Ford Escape vs. Toyota RAV4 comparison to find out which one is better for you.

2025 Ford Escape vs. Toyota RAV4: A Comprehensive Comparison

The 2025 Ford Escape and the 2025 RAV4 are among the most formidable entries in the fiercely competitive compact SUV segment. They deliver performance, reliability, practicality, and technology that make them stand out from their competitors. Neither crossover received any major updates for 2025, but the RAV4 dropped the TRD Off-Road and Adventure trims from its lineup.

While they’re both excellent vehicles, the Ford Escape and the Toyota RAV4 have many differences that distinguish them from each other. If you have trouble deciding between the two, using a car comparison tool and reading car reviews can help you make the right choice. Car comparison specifications show you which vehicle is superior in the areas that matter to you, such as performance, interior space, technology, or safety.

Performance and Efficiency

When you’re shopping for a new vehicle, you need to compare all your engine options to determine which model can best meet your needs. If you choose the 2025 Ford Escape, you have a choice of four powertrains. The standard turbo-three engine is rated at 180 horsepower, and there’s an optional turbo-four that generates 250 horsepower. To save money at the gas station, consider the hybrid four-cylinder with 192 horsepower or the plug-in hybrid powertrain with 210 horsepower.

The 2025 Toyota RAV4’s base four-cylinder engine puts out 203 horsepower, making it more powerful than the Escape’s default option. The RAV4 is also the winner in the Ford Escape Hybrid vs. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid performance comparison. It delivers 219 horsepower with its hybrid powertrain and 302 horsepower with its plug-in hybrid system.

Both the 2025 Escape and the 2025 RAV4 are exceptionally fuel-efficient, but the Ford has a thriftier plug-in hybrid model. The Escape returns up to 27/34 mpg (city/highway) with its standard gas engine, 42/36 mpg with the hybrid, and 101 MPGe with the plug-in hybrid. In contrast, the RAV4 achieves 27/35 mpg with its base engine and 41/38 mpg with its hybrid variant. The EPA estimates the 2025 RAV4 plug-in hybrid achieves 94 MPGe.

Ford Escape trunk space.

Design and Dimensions

When it comes to the Toyota RAV4 vs. Ford Escape size comparison, the Escape is the larger of the two. The Ford SUV measures 180.1 inches long, 85.6 inches wide, and 66 inches tall. In comparison, the Toyota is 180.9 inches long, 73 inches wide, and 67 inches high.

Despite being slightly bigger, the Escape looks sleek and sporty with its tapered nose, graceful curves, and arched roofline. In contrast, the RAV4 features a boxy shape and an upright front end that give it a rugged and imposing appearance.

The Ford Escape and the Toyota RAV4 both feature a modern interior with excellent finishes and quality materials. However, the Ford has more passenger space. Front passengers enjoy 42.4 inches of legroom, while those behind get 40.7 inches. As for the Toyota, there is 41 inches of legroom up front and 37.8 inches in the back. However, the RAV4 boasts a larger cargo capacity, offering an impressive 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. That’s 4.4 cubic feet more than the Escape.

Technology and Safety Features

In the infotainment department, Ford has a slight edge in the 2025 RAV4 vs. Escape contest. Both SUVs come standard with an 8-inch touch-screen display, multiple USB ports, a Wi-Fi hotspot, a six-speaker stereo, wireless smartphone connectivity, and satellite radio. Nonetheless, the Escape offers a larger optional touch screen, which is a massive 13.2-inch unit.

In a U.S. News car comparison review, the 2025 Escape and the 2025 RAV4 received outstanding scores of 8.5 and 8.7 out of 10, respectively. In National Highway Traffic Safety Administration crash testing, these two SUVs earned five-star ratings, the highest possible overall score.

Moreover, the Escape and RAV4 both provide a long list of driver-assistance technologies to add peace of mind to your journeys. Every Ford Escape model is equipped with lane-keeping assistance, lane departure alert, pedestrian monitoring, blind-spot detection, forward collision alert, automated emergency braking, and rear cross-traffic warning. Standard driver aids in the Toyota include braking assistance, traffic sign recognition, pedestrian monitoring, lane-tracing assistance, lane departure alert, automated high beams, adaptive cruise control, and hill-start assistance.

Explore the 2025 Ford Escape Today in Tacoma, Washington

The 2025 Ford Escape and the 2025 Toyota RAV4 are remarkably well-rounded vehicles. The choice between the two depends on your budget, driving needs, and lifestyle. If you’re interested in getting the latest Ford Escape in Tacoma, consider visiting Titus-Will Ford. Our devoted team of car experts can answer all your questions about the Escape and help you select a model that matches your requirements. Browse our new Ford Inventory now and contact us today to schedule a test drive.