2025 Mazda CX-50 vs 2026 Ford Escape
Comparison Overview
The most significant difference between the 2026 Ford Escape and the 2025 Mazda CX-50 lies in cargo volume, where the Escape offers substantially more space at 37.5 cu ft compared to the CX-50's 31.4 cu ft. Despite the CX-50 having a slightly higher starting MSRP of $30,500 versus the Escape's $30,350, the Escape counters with superior fuel economy, achieving 30 combined MPG versus the Mazda's 28 combined MPG. Power delivery favors the Mazda, which produces 187 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque, slightly outpacing the Escape's 180 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque, although the Escape utilizes an 8-speed transmission against the CX-50's 6-speed unit. Furthermore, the CX-50 comes standard with All-Wheel Drive (AWD), whereas the base Escape is Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), impacting off-pavement capability and traction performance.
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2026 Ford Escape
The 2026 Ford Escape wins for commuters due to its better fuel efficiency, delivering 30 combined MPG compared to the CX-50's 28 combined MPG.
2026 Ford Escape
Families prioritize utility, making the Escape the clear choice with 37.5 cu ft of cargo capacity, significantly larger than the CX-50's 31.4 cu ft.
2025 Mazda CX-50
The 2025 Mazda CX-50 appeals more to driving enthusiasts by standardizing All-Wheel Drive and offering slightly more horsepower at 187 hp.
2026 Ford Escape
The 2026 Ford Escape offers superior cargo space and better fuel economy while having a lower initial MSRP of $30,350.
Choose the Mazda CX-50 if...
- You require standard All-Wheel Drive for consistent traction in varied weather conditions.
- You prefer the slightly higher horsepower output of 187 hp paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
- You value the slightly longer body profile (185.8 inches) for a perceived more substantial road presence.
Choose the Ford Escape if...
- Maximizing cargo volume is critical, as the Escape offers 37.5 cu ft versus the CX-50's 31.4 cu ft.
- Fuel economy is a top priority, with the Escape achieving 34 highway MPG compared to 31 highway MPG for the Mazda.
- You want the lower starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) at $30,350.
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Mazda CX-50 | Ford Escape |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 185.8" | 180.1" |
| Width | 75.6" | 74.1" |
| Height | 63.5" | 66.0" |
| Wheelbase | 110.8" | 106.7" |
Features Comparison
Safety
| Feature | Mazda | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Blind Spot Monitor | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Departure Warning | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Keeping Assist System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Attention Alert | ✓ | ✓ |
| Pre-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Post-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Airbag Occupant Sensing Deactivation | ✓ | — |
| Electronic Stability Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Traction Control System | ✓ | ✓ |
| LATCH System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Child Safety Locks | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) | 4-Wheel | 4-Wheel |
| Front Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Solid Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Brake Assist | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Automatic Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Headlight Delay-Off | ✓ | ✓ |
| LED Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Daytime Running Lights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors | ✓ | — |
| Front Headrests | 2 | 2 |
| Front Height Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Headrests | 3 | 3 |
| Rear Height Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | ✓ | ✓ |
| Engine Immobilizer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Brake Preparation System | — | ✓ |
Engine
| Feature | Mazda | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 2.5 L | 1.5 L |
| Number of Cylinders | inline 4 | inline 3 |
| Base Engine Type | gas | gas |
| Horsepower | 187 hp @ 6000 rpm | 180 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 185 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm | 199 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm |
| Number of Valves | 16 | 12 |
| Camshaft Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Variable Valve Timing | Variable | Variable |
| Fuel Injection Type | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cylinder Deactivation | ✓ | ✓ |
Drive Train
| Feature | Mazda | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain Type | all wheel drive | front wheel drive |
Fuel
| Feature | Mazda | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | regular unleaded | regular unleaded |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 25/31 MPG | 27/34 MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 28 MPG | 30 MPG |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 397.5/492.9 mi. | 399.6/503.2 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15.9 gal. | 14.8 gal. |
Comfort & Convenience
| Feature | Mazda | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Push Button Start | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Audio Controls on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cruise Control on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electric Power Steering | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear View Camera | ✓ | ✓ |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ✓ | — |
| Front Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Overhead Console with Storage | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Seatback Storage | ✓ | ✓ |
| Leather Steering Wheel | ✓ | — |
| Dual Zone Climate Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts | ✓ | — |
| Interior Air Filtration | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Vanity Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Turn Signal Indicators in Mirrors | ✓ | — |
| Cruise Control | — | ✓ |
| Steering Wheel Material | — | Alloy |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Mazda | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 10.3 in | 8.0 in |
| AM/FM Stereo | ✓ | ✓ |
| Speaker System | 8 | 6 |
| Android Auto (Wireless) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Apple CarPlay (Wireless) | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port with External Media Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio | — | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio Trial Period | — | 3 months |
| Speed Sensitive Volume Control | — | ✓ |
Power Feature
| Feature | Mazda | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 4 | 1 |
| Keyless Entry | ✓ | ✓ |
| Heated Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
Frontseats
| Feature | Mazda | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 39.1 in. | 40.0 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 41.7 in. | 42.4 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 55.9 in. | 57.6 in. |
| Front Hip Room | 53.6 in. | 55.2 in. |
| Seat Material: Leatherette | ✓ | — |
| Front Seat Type: Bucket | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Manual Adjustments | 6-way | 6-way |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Manual Adjustments | 4-way | 4-way |
| Seat Material: Premium Cloth | — | ✓ |
Rearseats
| Feature | Mazda | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 38.6 in. | 39.3 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 39.8 in. | 40.7 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 53.6 in. | 56.0 in. |
| Rear Hip Room | 52.1 in. | 53.3 in. |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | ✓ | ✓ |
| Folding Center Armrest | ✓ | ✓ |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Mazda | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Finish | Painted Alloy | Painted Alloy |
| Wheel Size | 17 x 7.0 in | — |
| Tire Type | All Season | All Season |
| Tire Size | P225/65R17 | 225/65R H |
| Spare Tire Type | Temporary | — |
| Spare Tire Location | Inside Mounted | — |
| Wheel Diameter | — | 17 in |
Suspension
| Feature | Mazda | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension Type | Independent | — |
| Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | — |
| Four-Wheel Independent Suspension | — | ✓ |
| Front Stabilizer Bar | — | ✓ |
| Rear Stabilizer Bar | — | ✓ |
Warranty
| Feature | Mazda | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. |
| Corrosion/Rust Warranty | 5 yr./ unlimited mi. | 5 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Roadside Assistance | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. |
| Hybrid Component Warranty | — | 8 yr./ 100000 mi. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about comparing the 2025 Mazda CX-50 and 2026 Ford Escape.
Which vehicle offers better traction for adverse weather conditions?
The 2025 Mazda CX-50 is likely superior for adverse weather as it comes standard with All-Wheel Drive. The base 2026 Ford Escape is Front-Wheel Drive, which typically offers less grip on snow or ice.
How significant is the difference in cargo capacity?
The Ford Escape provides 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space, which is 6.1 cubic feet more than the Mazda CX-50's 31.4 cubic feet. This difference impacts hauling luggage or larger grocery trips considerably.
Does the higher horsepower in the CX-50 translate to better performance?
While the CX-50 has 7 more horsepower (187 hp vs. 180 hp), the Ford Escape compensates with significantly more torque at 199 lb-ft versus 185 lb-ft, which is beneficial for initial acceleration off the line.
Which crossover is more efficient on the highway?
The 2026 Ford Escape is rated at 34 Highway MPG, exceeding the 2025 Mazda CX-50's 31 Highway MPG rating. This translates to fewer stops for refueling over long distances.
What is the price difference between the base models?
The 2026 Ford Escape has a marginally lower starting MSRP at $30,350, while the 2025 Mazda CX-50 begins at $30,500. This results in a $150 entry cost savings for the Escape.
How do the transmissions compare between these two crossovers?
The Ford Escape utilizes a more modern 8-speed automatic transmission, potentially aiding efficiency and smooth shifting. The Mazda CX-50 uses a reliable 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission.
More Mid-Range SUVs ($30k-$50k)
View allVehicle Details
Compare More Vehicles
Use our interactive comparison tool to compare up to 4 vehicles at once
Open Comparison Tool