2025 Ford Escape vs. 2025 Mazda CX-5

The compact SUV segment in 2025 offers buyers excellent options, with the 2025 Ford Escape and the 2025 Mazda CX-5 leading the pack. Each vehicle brings its own strengths, from innovative technology and safety features to versatile performance and striking design.

Choosing between these two SUVs depends on your priorities, whether you prioritize practicality, advanced features, or driving dynamics. Let’s examine how these models compare in the key areas of design, technology, safety, and performance to help you decide which suits your lifestyle.

Design & Style

The 2025 Ford Escape boasts a modern, aerodynamic design with bold styling cues that create an elegant yet athletic presence on the road. Its exterior features include an updated grille, sleek LED lighting, and stylish alloy wheels. Inside, the Escape prioritizes functionality with spacious seating, ample cargo room, and premium materials for an upscale yet practical interior environment. Rear-seat passengers benefit from generous legroom, making it ideal for families or those who often travel with passengers.

In contrast, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 leans heavily into its reputation for sporty, luxury-inspired design. Its exterior features sharp lines, a distinctive front fascia, and a signature Kodo design language that exudes sophistication. The interior rivals premium brands with soft-touch materials, leather upholstery options, and a minimalist but upscale dashboard layout. However, its cabin space feels slightly more confined compared to the Escape, which could be a drawback for those needing more room for passengers or cargo.

Technology & Safety

The 2025 Ford Escape offers cutting-edge technology with its SYNC® 4 infotainment system. The large, intuitive touchscreen pairs with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, while voice recognition allows for effortless navigation and media control. Ford’s Co-Pilot 360™ suite of driver-assist technologies includes features like adaptive cruise control, pre-collision assist, and active park assist, making it one of the safest options in its class. Additional options like a head-up display and a premium sound system add to its appeal.

The Mazda CX-5 delivers similar tech advancements, featuring a high-resolution center display with smartphone integration and a user-friendly interface. Mazda’s i-Activsense suite includes lane-keeping assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control for a safe and secure driving experience. However, the infotainment system relies on a rotary dial instead of a touchscreen, which may feel less intuitive for some users. While both models offer robust technology and safety features, the Escape’s user-friendly systems and wide range of assistive technologies give it an advantage.

Performance

The 2025 Ford Escape caters to a wide audience with multiple powertrain options. The base turbocharged 1.5L EcoBoost® engine provides a smooth and efficient drive, while an available 2.0L EcoBoost® engine adds more power for those who need it. For environmentally conscious drivers, hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants offer impressive fuel efficiency and extended electric-only ranges. The Escape’s suspension and steering balance comfort and responsiveness, making it suitable for city driving and highway cruising.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, emphasizes sportier driving dynamics. Its standard 2.5L engine provides solid performance, while the optional turbocharged version delivers up to 256 horsepower for a thrilling experience. Mazda’s Skyactiv® technology enhances fuel efficiency without sacrificing power, and its well-tuned chassis ensures precise handling through curves. While the CX-5 excels in delivering a sporty drive, the Escape’s broader range of options and focus on efficiency and practicality make it a better choice for those with diverse driving needs.

The Bottom Line

The 2025 Ford Escape and 2025 Mazda CX-5 are outstanding SUVs but cater to different preferences. The Mazda CX-5 offers sporty performance and a premium interior, appealing to those who prioritize luxury and driving excitement. On the other hand, the Escape shines with its practical design, advanced technology, and multiple powertrain choices. One model provides more tailored solutions for drivers who value versatility, spacious interiors, and innovative features.

Schedule a Test Drive Today

The best way to determine which SUV suits your lifestyle is to experience it firsthand. Schedule a service at Ken Ganley Ford Parma. Our team is ready to guide you through all the features and options to help you find the perfect match for your needs. Visit us today and explore why this SUV continues to impress drivers year after year.

Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, and license charges. ‡Vehicles shown at different locations are not currently in our inventory (Not in Stock) but can be made available to you at our location within a reasonable date from the time of your request, not to exceed one week.

Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, license, or ($387) documentation fees. ‡Vehicles shown at different locations are not currently in our inventory (Not in Stock) but can be made available to you at our location within a reasonable date from the time of your request, not to exceed one week.