VS
At a Glance
Power
180hp @ 6000
227hp @ 5500
Torque
199lb-ft @ 3000
258lb-ft
Towing
2000lbs
1653lbs
Engine
1.5 L/91cc
1.6 L/98cc
Choosing between the Ford Escape and the KIA Sportage Hybrid is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Ford Escape delivers 180hp @ 6000 while the KIA Sportage Hybrid produces 227hp @ 5500. Pricing starts at $31,750 for the Escape and $30,490 for the Sportage Hybrid. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
180hp @ 6000
227hp @ 5500
Torque (lb-ft)
199lb-ft @ 3000
258lb-ft
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
1.5 L/91cc
1.6 L/98cc
Cylinders
3
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Hybrid
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic w/OD
Automatic w/OD
Number of Gears
8
6
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
26mpg
—
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
32mpg
—
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
15.7gal
13.7gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
181.2in
183.5in
Width (in)
74.1in
73.4in
Height (in)
66.1in
66.1in
Wheelbase (in)
106.7in
108.5in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3419lbs
—
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
2000lbs
1653lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
—
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Tie
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Sportage Hybrid
Practicality
Escape
Pros & Cons
Ford Escape
Higher towing capacity (2000lbs)
Higher starting price
KIA Sportage Hybrid
Lower starting price ($30,490)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Escape or Sportage Hybrid?
The Escape produces 180hp @ 6000 and 199lb-ft @ 3000 of torque while the Sportage Hybrid delivers 227hp @ 5500 and 258lb-ft of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Escape and Sportage Hybrid?
The Escape starts from $31,750 and the Sportage Hybrid from $30,490. The Sportage Hybrid is cheaper by $1,260 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Escape or Sportage Hybrid?
The Escape has a braked towing capacity of 2000lbs and the Sportage Hybrid can tow 1653lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Escape or the Sportage Hybrid?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.