The 2025 Ford Escape and Lincoln Corsair have shared roots, but they’ve branched out in different directions. Which compact SUV makes the most sense for your North Carolina lifestyle? We’re here to examine the pros and cons of each model!
Key Takeaways
- The Escape starts at a much friendlier price, especially if you’re on a budget!
- Choose the more luxurious Corsair for a stronger, quicker performance.
- Depending on which engine you select, the Escape can save you a lot at the pump.
- The Corsair comes standard with more luxury features, but the Escape is very handsomely equipped for a non-luxury model!
Budget-Friendly MSRP: 2025 Ford Escape
The new Escape (starting at $29,515*) offers irresistible savings compared to the more luxurious Corsair (from $39,735*). But don’t let its much lower price fool you! The entry-level Escape Active is loaded with modern features, from dual-zone automatic climate control to a power liftgate.
Of course, the base Corsair Premiere is equipped with an even longer list of goodies. This upscale SUV is big on style, too, with faux-leather upholstery and a digital instrument panel. But you can equip the Escape with many of the same upgrades — and enjoy them for a lot less money!
*Price as of 6/5/25.
Upscale Cruising: 2025 Lincoln Corsair
You’ll notice the Corsair features a couple of the same engines as the Escape — but with two important caveats. First, the Corsair comes standard with more power, compliments of the sporty 2.0-liter engine, a turbocharged number that delivers a swift, agile ride. Second, the available hybrid powertrain delivers more power under the Corsair’s hood! Better still, every Corsair comes standard with all-wheel drive, helping you weather summer storms and snowy winters alike.
2025 Lincoln Corsair Powertrain Options
- Premier, Reserve: turbo 2.0L four-cylinder engine (250 hp, 275 lb-ft)
- Grand Touring: 2.5L plug-in hybrid powertrain (266 hp)
- Continuously variable transmission
- All-wheel drive
Maybe the Escape doesn’t come standard with as much power. But compared to the Corsair, it’s available with two extra engine options. This fact alone gives the Escape wider appeal — especially for drivers who don’t want to spend more money on speed. Shoppers can also select a classic (non-plug-in) hybrid powertrain, which provides a thrifty performance for anyone who doesn’t have regular access to a charger.
2025 Ford Escape Powertrain Options
- Active, ST-Line: turbocharged 1.5L three-cylinder engine (180 hp, 199 lb-ft)
- ST-Line Select and up: turbo 2.0L four-cylinder engine (250 hp, 280 lb-ft)
- Optional for the ST-Line and up: 2.5L hybrid powertrain (192 hp, 155 lb-ft)
- PHEV: 2.5L plug-in hybrid powertrain (210 hp, 155 lb-ft)
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Continuously variable transmission (with hybrid or plug-in hybrid)
- Front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive
Thriftiest Ride: 2025 Ford Escape
Where the Corsair delivers more power, the Escape helps you save more money at the pump. The Escape PHEV trim model (and its exclusive plug-in hybrid powertrain) achieves the best EPA ratings, giving you up to 101 MPGe. And when you stay within its 37-mile electric driving range, you won’t need to tap into the gas tank! The Escape’s classic hybrid powertrain, available for the ST-Line trim model and up, achieves 39 mpg combined (42 city/36 highway).
The Corsair’s version of this plug-in hybrid powertrain is a little more spirited, but its extra horsepower comes at a price — literally! The PHEV-powered Grand Touring trim model earns 76 MPGe. It doesn’t travel quite as far on electric power alone, either, with a 27-mile range. Equipped with its powerful base engine, the Corsair achieves up to 25 mpg combined (22 city/30 highway).
Cushy Features: It’s a Tie!
Which is more comfortable, Escape or Corsair? These compact crossovers truly appeal to different kinds of drivers. While the luxurious Corsair delivers more standard features and a little extra flair, the Escape gives you some incredible upgrades at a much friendlier price.
For example, the top-tier Escape ST-Line Elite (from $36,305*) treats you to plush comfort and smart tech upgrades (including driver’s seat memory and adaptive cruise control) and still manages to cost less than the lowest-priced Corsair. On the other hand, if you’re after upmarket cabin materials and available features (like a head-up display and 14-speaker Ravel sound system), there are some features you can only get from the Corsair!
The Best Compact SUV for You
If you’re like us, the 2025 Ford Escape just makes the most sense! Even loaded with luxury features, Ford’s compact crossover comes at the best price. Not to mention it’s available with more powertrain options! Plus, its hybrid powertrain options deliver the best EPA ratings. Give your commute a much-needed refresh — test-drive the Escape at Layfayette Ford, right here in Fayetteville, NC!