Ford Escape vs. Mazda CX-5: Compact SUV Face-Off

Ford Escape vs. Mazda CX-5: Compact SUV Face-Off

Smart, Stylish, and Capable – Which SUV Wins?

The compact SUV market is full of great options, but two standouts consistently rise to the top: the 2025 Ford Escape and the Mazda CX-5. Both offer modern styling, versatile performance, and family-friendly features, but which one is the right fit for you?

At J.C. Lewis Motor Co., we carry a wide selection of new and used Ford Escape models, as well as a variety of used Mazda CX-5 SUVs. If you're searching for the best used compact SUV, this guide will help you compare the Escape vs. CX-5 in terms of design, performance, comfort, and technology so you can make the best choice for your needs.

Ford Escape vs. Mazda CX-5: At a Glance

If you're comparing the 2025 Ford Escape and the Mazda CX-5 for sale, here’s how they stack up:

Ford Escape – A well-rounded SUV offering fuel efficiency, a spacious interior, advanced tech, and available hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. Perfect for families and commuters who want versatility and value.

Mazda CX-5 – A stylish and sporty SUV with a premium-feeling interior, engaging driving dynamics, and standard all-wheel drive. Great for drivers who want a compact SUV with sharp handling and upscale materials.

SUV parked in front of a building with front end facing the camera.

Why Shop at J.C. Lewis Motor Co.?

At J.C. Lewis Motor Co., we offer a wide selection of new and used compact SUVs, including the 2025 Ford Escape and used Mazda CX-5 models.

Whether you’re looking for a Ford Escape Titanium with premium tech or a used Ford Escape for value, our knowledgeable team can help. Plus, with competitive financing and trade-in options, we’ll help you find the best used compact SUV for your budget.

Ford Escape: Pros & Standout Features

The 2025 Ford Escape is a tech-savvy, fuel-efficient, and spacious compact SUV built for modern drivers.

  • Multiple Powertrain Options – Choose from a turbocharged gas engine, hybrid, or plug-in hybrid for the best mix of power and efficiency.

  • Spacious & Family-Friendly Interior – Offers more rear legroom and cargo space than the Mazda CX-5.

  • Available Ford Escape Titanium Trim – Premium features like a 13.2-inch SYNC® 4 touchscreen, wireless charging, and hands-free liftgate.

  • Impressive Fuel Economy – Hybrid models achieve over 40 MPG, making it a top contender for best used compact SUV fuel efficiency.

Looking for a used Ford Escape? Explore our selection at J.C. Lewis Motor Co. today!

Shop the Ford Escape

Mazda CX-5: Pros & Standout Features

The Mazda CX-5 is a sporty and stylish compact SUV that appeals to drivers who love an engaging drive and premium interior.

  • Standard All-Wheel Drive – Unlike the Ford Escape Titanium, which offers AWD as an option, every CX-5 comes with AWD standard.

  • Premium Interior Finishes – High-end materials, available Nappa leather seats, and a sleek design make it feel more upscale.

  • Sportier Driving DynamicsSharp steering and responsive handling give the CX-5 a more athletic feel compared to the Escape.

  • Great Value as a Used SUV – If you’re shopping for a used Mazda CX-5, you’ll find a balance of luxury and affordability.

Interested in a Mazda CX-5 for sale? We have a variety of used Mazda CX-5 models in stock!

Shop the Mazda CX-5

Design & Capability: Versatility vs. Sportiness

The 2025 Ford Escape and Mazda CX-5 both bring modern styling and practical capability, but their focus is different.

2025 Ford Escape

The Escape is designed for versatility and family-friendly use. It has a sleek, aerodynamic shape, a spacious cabin, and an available hands-free liftgate for easy cargo access. It also offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, making it one of the best used compact SUV choices for fuel savings.

Mazda CX-5

The CX-5 leans into sporty styling and luxury touches. It has a bold front grille, sleek LED lighting, and a driver-focused interior with upscale materials. Standard all-wheel drive makes it more capable in bad weather, but it doesn’t offer a hybrid option like the Escape.

Performance: Power & Efficiency Compared

If you’re looking for fuel efficiency and hybrid options, the Escape wins. If sporty driving is your priority, the CX-5 is the better fit.

Ford Escape

  • Multiple engine choices, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid for fuel efficiency

  • Available AWD, but standard front-wheel drive for better fuel economy

  • Up to 250 HP with the turbocharged 2.0L EcoBoost® engine

  • Hybrid models achieve over 40 MPG, making it a top contender for fuel-conscious buyers

Mazda CX-5

  • Standard AWD for improved traction

  • Two gas engine options, including a turbocharged 2.5L producing 256 HP

  • Less fuel-efficient than the Escape, averaging 26 MPG combined

  • More engaging handling, but at the cost of ride comfort

Choose the Ford Escape If You:

  • Want a Fuel-Efficient SUV – Hybrid and plug-in hybrid options make it a great choice for fuel-conscious buyers.

  • Need More Space – More rear legroom and cargo capacity than the Mazda CX-5.

  • Prefer High-Tech Features – Available 13.2-inch SYNC® 4 touchscreen, wireless charging, and advanced driver-assist features.

  • Looking for a Used Ford Escape – A used Ford Escape is a budget-friendly, fuel-efficient choice for families.

Choose the Mazda CX-5 If You:

  • Want a Sportier Drive – Sharp steering and responsive handling make it more engaging to drive.

  • Prefer Standard AWD – Comes with all-wheel drive on every trim.

  • Like a More Premium Interior – Features available Nappa leather seats and upscale finishes.

  • Shopping for a Used Mazda CX-5 – A used Mazda CX-5 offers luxury-like quality at an affordable price.

Book Your Test Drive Today

The best way to decide between the 2025 Ford Escape and the Mazda CX-5 is to get behind the wheel and experience them for yourself. Whether you’re looking for fuel efficiency, advanced tech, or a sportier drive, our team at J.C. Lewis Motor Co. is ready to help you find the perfect fit. Don’t just compare—drive and decide! Schedule your test drive today!

Schedule a Test Drive

FAQ: Your Compact SUV Questions Answered

Choosing between the Ford Escape and the Mazda CX-5 can bring up plenty of questions, from reliability and performance to features and warranties. We’ve gathered answers to some of the most common questions to help you make the best choice for your next compact SUV.