At a Glance
Power
180hp @ 6000
147hp @ 6200
Torque
199lb-ft @ 3000
132lb-ft @ 4500
Towing
2000lbs
—
Engine
1.5 L/91cc
2.0 L/122cc
Choosing between the Ford Escape and the KIA Seltos is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Ford Escape delivers 180hp @ 6000 while the KIA Seltos produces 147hp @ 6200. Pricing starts at $30,350 for the Escape and $23,790 for the Seltos. 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
147hp @ 6200
Torque (lb-ft)
199lb-ft @ 3000
132lb-ft @ 4500
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
1.5 L/91cc
2.0 L/122cc
Cylinders
3
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
—
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
8
—
Drive Wheels
Front Wheel Drive
Front Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
27mpg
27 (Est)mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
34mpg
31 (Est)mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
14.8gal
13.2gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
180.5in
172.6in
Width (in)
74.1in
70.9in
Height (in)
66.1in
63.6in
Wheelbase (in)
106.7in
103.5in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3283lbs
2937lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
2000lbs
—
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
—
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
—
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
—
Sunroof
✓ Standard
—
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
—
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
—
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
—
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Tie
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Seltos
Practicality
Escape
Pros & Cons
Ford Escape
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
KIA Seltos
Lower starting price ($23,790)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Escape or Seltos?
The Escape produces 180hp @ 6000 and 199lb-ft @ 3000 of torque while the Seltos delivers 147hp @ 6200 and 132lb-ft @ 4500 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Escape and Seltos?
The Escape starts from $30,350 and the Seltos from $23,790. The Seltos is cheaper by $6,560 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Escape or Seltos?
The Escape has a braked towing capacity of 2000lbs and the Seltos can tow not specified. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Escape or the Seltos?
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.