Ford Escape Vs. Toyota RAV4 | Interior, MPG, Engine, Specs
In today's epic rivalry, we compare the Ford Escape vs. Toyota RAV4. See how these two feature-packed SUVs measure up in terms of performance, dimensions, and features. We think we've spotted a clear winner with the Ford Escape; explore how and why as you read through our guide. Then, visit Tom Wood Ford for a personalized introduction to this iconic SUV.
Before jumping in, we invite you to read up on what you can expect in this comparison by checking out the chart below, which highlights the base trims for each SUV.
2026 Ford Escape vs. 2026 Toyota RAV4 Comparison Chart
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| 2026 Ford Escape Active | 2026 Toyota RAV4 LE | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L EcoBoost I-3 | 2.5L Dynamic Force 4-cyl |
| Horsepower | 180 | 236 |
| Torque | 199 lb-ft | 163 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | ECVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs1 | 1,750 lbs2 |
| EPA-Est.MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 27 / 34 / 303 | 47 / 40 / 434 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Volume | 104 cu ft | 98.9 cu ft |
| Cargo Space (Min / Max) | 37.5 / 65.4 cu ft | 37.8 / 70.4 cu ft |
| Length | 180.1 in | 181 in |
| Width | 74.1 in | 73 in |
| Height | 66 in | 67 in |
| Standard Features |
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| Available Features |
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2026 Ford Escape vs. Toyota RAV4 Performance
The first stop in our Ford Escape vs. Toyota RAV4 comparison is performance specs. These two models are well-equipped to accommodate different driving needs, offering both FWD and AWD. Looking at the Toyota RAV4 specs, we see that FWD is standard, with AWD coming standard-equipped in higher trims; AWD is also available in every trim with standard FWD. The Ford Escape specs showcase the same approach; the only difference is that this SUV's Plug-In Hybrid model is only offered with FWD.
An interesting aspect of our SUV matchup is that the Ford Escape and Toyota RAV4 both offer multiple powertrains with hybrid and PHEV options. Which SUV has more power overall?
The standard Toyota RAV4 engine is a hybrid 2.5-liter four-cylinder that outputs 226 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque. The AWD hybrid configuration increases power to 236 net horsepower.
Looking at the Ford Escape engine options, we see the standard 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine churn out 180 horsepower and 199 pound-feet of torque. It has a second available gasoline option, which the RAV4 fails to offer, that puts out 250 horsepower. Its hybrid and PHEV powertrains make 192 and 210 net horsepower, respectively.
How does the Ford Escape vs. Toyota RAV4 battle measure up regarding towing capacity?
Ford Escape vs. Toyota RAV4 Towing
The Ford Escape towing capacity varies depending on the engine option. With the standard engine, the Escape can tow up to 2,000 pounds, 1 which is more than the standard for the Toyota RAV4. Opt for a hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain at our Ford dealership in Indianapolis, IN, and the Escape boasts a maximum 3,500-pound towing capacity when properly equipped.
If you want the highest possible towing capacity for the 2026 Ford Escape, go with the available 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, which lets it tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped with the Class II Trailer Tow Package.
Comparatively, the Toyota RAV4 makes things a little more complicated to understand, as its towing capacity depends on the trim and configuration rather than solely the engine. Here are the towing capacities you can get with the Toyota RAV4:
- Toyota RAV4 LE (FWD/AWD), SE, XLE Premium (FWD): 1,750 pounds2
- Toyota RAV4 Woodland, XLE Premium, SE, XSE, Limited AWD: 3,500 pounds2
The Toyota RAV4 was redesigned for the 2026 model year, bumping up its overall towing capacity to a maximum of 3,500 pounds.2 Previously, it could only tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped. For this model year, it matches the maximum towing capacity of the Ford Escape, but the base model falls short of the Ford Escape base towing capabilities.
2026 Ford Escape vs. Toyota RAV4 MPG
How does fuel efficiency come about in this SUV head-to-head event? Since the 2026 Toyota RAV4 is all hybrid, it makes sense to compare it with the Ford Escape hybrid engine.
Check out the maximum Ford Escape MPG ratings per powertrain below:
- 1.5-liter EcoBoost: EPA-estimated 27/34/30 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)3
- 2.0-liter EcoBoost: EPA-estimated 23/31/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)3
- 2.5-liter hybrid: EPA-estimated 42/36/39 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)3
- 2.5-liter plug-in hybrid: EPA-estimated 101 MPGe (Combined)3
See below for the maximum Toyota RAV4 MPG ratings per powertrain:
- 2.5-liter Dynamic Force Hybrid: EPA-estimated 47/40/43 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)4
- 2.5-liter Dynamic Force plug-in hybrid: EPA-estimated 94 MPG (Combined)4
Another key element of MPG is fuel tank capacity. While the tank size depends on the configuration, the Ford Escape boasts a larger maximum capacity of 15.7 gallons. The Toyota RAV4 has a maximum capacity of just 14.5 gallons.
Ford Escape vs. Toyota RAV4 Dimensions
Since dimensions can vary slightly depending on the configuration, we will review the gasoline-powered front-wheel-drive variants of both SUVs to help keep it concise. Below are the maximum ratings in each category for the gasoline Ford Escape vs. Toyota RAV4.
Ford Escape
Here are the exterior Ford Escape dimensions, resulting in an agile, easy-to-maneuver SUV:
- Length: 180.1 inches
- Width: 74.1 inches (without mirrors)
- Height: 66 inches
- Wheelbase: 106.7 inches
Turning to the cabin, the Ford Escape interior dimensions are appealing, offering much more space for passengers than what is offered overall in the Toyota RAV4:
- Headroom (front/rear): 40/39.3 inches
- Legroom (front/rear): 42.4/40.7 inches
- Shoulder room (front/rear): 57.6/56 inches
- Hip room (front/rear): 55.2/53.3 inches
Toyota RAV4
By comparison, the new 2026 RAV4 offers similar exterior dimensions:
- Length: 181 inches
- Width: 73 inches (without mirrors)
- Height: 66.7 inches
- Wheelbase: 105.9 inches
Meanwhile, the Toyota RAV4 interior dimensions are as follows:
- Headroom (front/rear): 37.9/39.5 inches
- Legroom (front/rear): 41/37.8 inches
- Shoulder room (front/rear): 57/56.4 inches
- Hip room (front/rear): 55.3/49.6 inches
We believe the Ford Escape to be the ideal option for the interior, as it comes out ahead with more spacious dimensions in almost every category. Not to mention, the 2026 Escape has a larger passenger volume with 104 cubic feet in the gasoline models. The 2026 RAV4 only offers 98.9 cubic feet. We see the same trend when reviewing the plug-in hybrid variants of both SUVs.
Ford Escape vs. Toyota RAV4 Interior
We touched on the interiors earlier on the page and saw the edge the Escape has over the RAV4. Overall, the interior of the new Ford Escape for sale is more impressive than the Toyota RAV4. Standard features in the Ford Escape interior include push-button start, dual-zone climate control, an 8-inch instrument cluster, a rotary gear shift dial, and a premium-wrapped steering wheel.
The RAV4 has been updated for 2026 with new interior features that make it more comparable to the Ford Escape, but it comes at a higher starting MSRP. Inside the RAV4, standard features include a 10.5-inch touchscreen, fabric seats, push-button start, and a Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
A slew of upgrades are available for both models, too. However, the Escape has the upper hand. It offers a 13.2-inch touchscreen, a 10-way power driver seat, a 10-speaker premium audio system, and a 12.3-inch instrument display. The RAV4, meanwhile, has a 10.5-inch touchscreen and an eight-way power driver seat available on higher trims.
Before we wrap up our Toyota RAV4 vs. Ford Escape findings, we must quickly comment on safety. While the RAV4 has impressive standard features, the Escape simply offers more. Standard driver assists in the Escape include Forward Collision Warning, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, the Blind Spot Information System with Rear Cross-Traffic Braking, and Post-Collision Braking. Some of this tech is either available or not offered at all in the Toyota RAV4.
If you're ready to take home a model that gives you the most for your budget, contact us today to explore the 2026 Ford Escape in more detail.
Who Wins Our Toyota RAV4 vs. Ford Escape Face-Off?
Our Toyota RAV4 vs. Ford Escape comparison was quite competitive. While the RAV4 had a few wins against the Escape, we think the Escape pulls ahead overall. Not only does it have more engine options and towing capacity, but it also has a more spacious cabin and standard and available features. We invite you to visit Tom Wood Ford to learn more about these SUVs, your Ford financing options, and anything in between.
Don't forget to inquire about our rotating new Ford specials, which can help you save on your 2026 Ford Escape upgrade.
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Explore More About The Ford Escape
1 When properly equipped. See dealer for details.
2 Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up and loaded properly and that you have any necessary additional equipment. Do not exceed any Weight Ratings and follow all instructions in your Owner's Manual . The maximum you can tow depends on base curb weight plus the total weight of any cargo, occupants, and added vehicle equipment. "Added vehicle equipment" includes additional standard/optional equipment and accessories added by the manufacturer, dealers, and/or vehicle owners. The only way to be certain of your vehicle's exact curb weight is to weigh your vehicle without passengers or cargo. [Calculated with the new SAE J2807 method.] Installation of a tow hitch receiver or other accessories located near the rear bumper or side-door kick sensors may require disabling or removing the kick sensor, and the sensor operation setting in your vehicle should be turned off. See Owner's Manual for limitations.
3 EPA-estimated city/hwy mpg for the model indicated. See fueleconomy.gov for fuel economy of other engine/transmission combinations. Actual mileage will vary. On plug-in hybrid models and electric models, fuel economy is stated in MPGe. MPGe is the EPA equivalent measure of gasoline fuel efficiency for electric mode operation.
4 Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.